For new drivers, getting behind the wheel might feel daunting, but Kymberley Sanderson, Seymour’s newest driving instructor, is ready to calm the nerves.
Ms Sanderson opened her new business, Seymour Driving School, in early June, just after her 18-month stint at Seymour’s VicRoads as a licence testing officer.
“I have been working at VicRoads and I thoroughly enjoyed going out on the road with all the applicants going for their licences,” she said.
“I know how busy our local instructors are, so I decided to complete the relevant training, which began my journey into the Seymour Driving School.”
Ms Sanderson, who is a familiar face around Mitchell Shire, having worked in a local pharmacy for over 30 years, said she had always liked teaching new staff driving techniques.
“I have a few classic cars and I like to drive, so teaching people to master the technique of driving was something that was a progression from being an LTO,” she said.
“I’m really loving it!
“I remember how worried I was when I went for my licence many years ago, so I do my best to make the applicant calm, and not frightened and worried of the process.”
Ms Sanderson said opening Seymour Driving School was a dream come true.
“I’d always dreamt about running my own business but never knew what skill I had that I could run a business with, until becoming an LTO,” she said.
“I have two vehicles available for lessons, an automatic and a manual. Manual instructors aren’t as common in our area, especially with me being a lady instructor, so I know the demand for lessons.”
As a former LTO, Ms Sanderson said the most significant difference was that now she could actually teach new drivers.
“In a drive-test environment, as an LTO you are not allowed to discuss the applicant’s abilities, or guide them in any way,” she said.
“I was only able to give directions on the testing route.
“As a driving instructor I can help students with their driving skill, can talk them through every intersection if they need it, give feedback with what they are doing correctly and some things they might need to work on.
“Being patient and calm with my directions helps the students relax and become confident with their learning.”
Seymour Driving School has been open for lessons for a month now, and Ms Sanderson said she was loving it.
“My favourite part of running Seymour Driving School is helping, guiding and encouraging my students,” she said.
“Some get in the car and are so anxious! It may be because they have only ever driven with Mum or Dad, or it’s their first time behind the wheel, or they just need a freshen-up with road rules before going for their test.
“I make the lesson fun and informative without being overwhelming. All students seem to be relaxed and keen to put what they have learnt into practice.”
For new drivers and those who are going to take their driving tests, Ms Sanderson has some advice.
“Relax, put your nerves in your pocket,” she said.
“We all want safe, responsible and respectful drivers to share the roads with, and that’s what you should aim to achieve on your drive test.”
She said it was a challenge to put some of the most nervous students at ease.
“Nerves can make some of the best drivers do silly things they wouldn’t normally do,” Ms Sanderson said.