Who Do I Teach?

Teenagers
When you think of new drivers the most common thought is to those just turning 17 and want to quickly learn to drive to enhance their independence. I have taught many of these from those who are extremely confident to those who know it’s a right of passage but are really nervous. Each pupil has their teaching adapted to match their requirements in order to be safe on the roads, especially after their test when they are fully independent. This age group are at most risk of accidents after they pass so it is imperative that they are not just test ready but safe and competent to ensure that this does not happen.

Young Adults
Some pupils don’t decide to learn as soon as they turn 17, for whatever reason, but then need to drive for work/social purposes and so learn as an adult. These have usually put off driving due to confidence levels (or sometimes for financial reasons). My teaching to this group again is adapted to meet their needs. There is usually a pull to pass quickly and therefore extra sessions can be booked in.

More Mature Learners
I have had experience teaching those pupils who have not decided to learn for quite a while. These pupils can be more nervous and possibly have other ailments that they think will prevent them from passing. A slower approach helps in most cases, as well as linking learning to other skills they have already. These pupils generally understand the road a little more as they have been using them as a passenger for years, they now need to learn how to read the road whilst controlling the car at the same time. Adaptations are made for any medical needs that have developed (including regular loo stops if required).

Learning Difficulties
Much more of the population now have diagnosed learning difficulties than previously. As a SENDCo at a school in my last career I saw first hand the different needs conditions had, and the requirements needed to overcome them to be able to learn the task at hand. With driving it is the same – finding ways that help the learner to understand and then be able to deliver safe practice all within an agreed learning style. This differs greatly dependent on the situation, and is really rewarding when gains are made.

Points/Bans
Some of my pupils have had previous lives where decisions of youth have led to driving punishments. With the right attitude these pupils can become legal on the roads. In most cases the actual driving is not the issue, it’s learning to be safe whilst doing so. This is quickly taught and enforced by repeated reminders, and then any other bad habits and additional learning can be put in place to ensure the pupil is test ready.

Full Licence Holders
Some of my pupils already hold full licences but come to me to get additional help in certain areas. This could be due to confidence as no driving has been completed in years, or down to a medical condition after which they want to be assured that their driving continues to be safe. Other full licence holders may just require teaching for motorways, or how to navigate to a certain destination. Each lesson therefore is adapted to suit the requirements of the learner