Hundreds of young Westies have gained their driver licences with help from the Silver Fern Motorsport Charitable Trust, opening doors to employment and further education. Since 2010, the registered charity has provided free training and test support for young people working towards their learner, restricted and full licences.
For one recent participant, the benefits were almost immediate. Ted Jarvis, the Trust’s Programme Manager, recalls that they finished the programme on a Friday and found employment by Monday. ‘Many of the young people we are currently working with are the Covid kids. They’ve had their schooling interrupted, and some never went back,’ says Ted. He explains that the cost of lessons and tests, limited access to suitable vehicles for supervised practice, and transport difficulties can make gaining a licence particularly challenging for these young people and low-income households.
Ted works directly with participants, providing mentoring and driver coaching, and coordinates the programme with schools and community organisations. He is supported by trained driving instructors and programme staff across West Auckland. So far this year, 265 rangatahi have participated, with more sessions planned. The Trust has recently moved into new premises on Victor Street, Avondale, where it can cater for groups of six to 50 in the classroom.
A driver licence can make a significant difference to employment prospects. Government estimates suggest that up to 70% of jobs require one, highlighting the barrier faced by young people who cannot access training or testing. Alongside helping participants gain their licences, Ted says supervised practice and mentoring help them develop safer driving habits and build confidence behind the wheel.
The programme is being updated to reflect changes to the driver licensing system coming into effect on 25 January 2027. There are also plans to offer support to older drivers, helping them drive safely, build confidence and retain their independence.
Silver Fern Motorsport Charitable Trust received $10,000 from this year’s Your West Support Fund to help cover salary costs and support mentoring and programme coordination. ‘The Trusts has long been a valued supporter of our work,’ says Ted.
Spaces are filling up fast. Visit the Silver Fern Motorsport Charitable Trust website for details on how to register.
Learn more about Silver Fern Motorsport Charitable Trust at silverfernmotorsport.com or follow them on Facebook.
If you or your organisation could use support from The Trusts, find out how to apply at thetrusts.co.nz/our-funds.
