thedrivingskool.com

Tyneside Women Failed Driving Theory Test 48 Times

2012-02-22T08:27:00.000-08:00

A Newcastle woman passed her driving theory test last year .... on her 49th attempt.

The 27-year-old topped a league table of learner drivers in the North East who took multiple tests. Even a driving instructor was shocked by her “horrendous” number of attempts.

She trumped a 29-year-old Sunderland man who had to be quizzed 16 times.

And 13 was the lucky number for two Morpeth teenagers, aged 17 and 19, when they passed the exam last year after failing a dozen times.

The astonishing figures are revealed in a Freedom of Information Act request by the Chronicle to the Driving Standards Agency (DSA).

We found a legion of L-plate motorists determined to do whatever it takes to pass. At the current rate, the woman who took the most tests would have blown £1,519 just on taking the exams.

Driving instructors said it was likely that she did not speak English as a first language, so she would have struggled with the test’s complex technical words.

The figures only start from September 2004, meaning the woman must have failed at least one test every eight weeks. She will now have to pass the practical test within two years – or she will need to start the process all over again.

Many drivers also found the practical test a challenge. Topping our chart was a 40-year-old Sunderland woman who passed on her 20th attempt.

She beat a 32-year-old woman from Hexham, who passed on her 17th attempt, and a 36-year-old woman who passed her 16th test at Elswick, Newcastle.

But thousands of lucky motorists passed first time. More than 8,000 17-year-olds in the North East passed their theory test on their first attempt last year. Two-thirds of 17-year-olds were successful in Newcastle.

While their grandkids passed first time, some older drivers also got behind the wheel. A 79-year-old passed the driving theory test, while an 82-year-old flew through her practical.

“That would take some determination,” said Alice Brunton, a Newcastle driving instructor. “It is absolutely extraordinary. “I have had an elderly pupil but nobody to teach to drive at anything like that age. “I’ve had a couple in their late 40s – and it does take them longer. “They tend to be more nervous – probably quite sensibly – but of course it does make it more difficult to learn.”

She said drivers were most commonly failed when they put their foot down approaching junctions or forgot to check their mirrors often enough. “You are allowed 15 minor faults, but 16 and you fail,” said Alice, who runs her own firm – Alice’s School of Motoring. “But you are not allowed a single serious fault, let alone a dangerous fault. “There are certain drivers who just find it difficult to concentrate, to keep their attention going for long enough not to make a single serious mistake.”

She added that many of her pupils come with “completely hopeless” ideas of how few lessons they will need before passing. Most people need between 40 and 50 hours behind the wheel before taking their test, said Alice. “It is no good telling them that after 20 hours they are going to have a hope in hell – they’re not. It’s just not fair. “If they can get some practice at home, so much the better.”

Men generally pass on their second attempt while women need at least three tests, she added. “One thing I have noticed is that if people fail their first attempt they then go on to fail a few times – it can be quite depressing for them. They are often the ones who take three or four attempts to pass whereas some people you just know will pass the first time.”

Talking about the woman who clocked up 48 failed theory tests, she said: “That is horrendous. I have a lot of people living where who do not have English as a first language and I feel really, really sorry for them. They struggle with the test’s complex technical words.”

Source : www.chroniclelive.co.uk

Become a Driving Instructor with thedrivingskool.com

2012-01-27T10:38:00.000-08:00

Few jobs offer such flexibility, earning potential or job satisfaction as a Driving Instructor. Work the hours you choose and feel a great sense of achievement as each of your pupils pass their driving test. If you want to find out why no other driving instructor training course offers you better value for money or job prospects once qualified, we'd be keen to hear from you!

If you are already a Driving Instructor & looking for a change, we are always looking for great people to help us expand across the region. We offer a large range of franchise options built around you, our customer!

Simply send us an e-mail to lovewhatyoudo@thedrivingskool.com or call Mike on 07919 193299

thedrivingskool.com Hall of Fame for 2011

2012-01-26T10:30:00.000-08:00

A HUGE well done & congratulations to the following guys & girls who worked really hard and have successfully passed their practical test with the driving skool.com for 2011:) You now have "Knowledge to go places"

* 07/01/2011 Well done Chi who passed 2 day @ Erith with only 4minors! :-) Julie

* 10/01/2011. Well done Keey Cade who passed today :)- Lee

* 12/01/2011 Congratulations to Sam Stampe who passed 1st time with 1 minor at Erith all in 4 months as well :-) Julie

* 13/01/2011 Congratulations to Elain Reville who passed 1st time today at Erith see you for pass plus on 30/01/2011 :-))) Julie

* 15/01/2011. Well done Dave Hickson who passed @ Hornchurch today :) - Lee

* 17/01/2011 A great big well done to Christine Luc who passed today at Erith a well deserved pass :-) Julie

* 20/01/2011 Congratulations to Shah Hussan who passed today at Erith and only 3 minors :) Julie

* 25/01/2011. Well done Greg who passed @ West Wickham today!! - Mike

* 28/01/2011. Well done George who passed with only 3 minors :) - Rich

* 31/01/2011. Tarjan well done mate for passing today!Only 3 minors! - Mike

* 03/02/2011. Well gone to Glen who passed in Hornchurch today :) - Lee

* 04/02/2011. Well done to Sam Whitehead who passed today at Erith :-) Julie

* 07/02/2011. What a great result Lauren, only one minor! Well done! - Mike

* 08/02/2011.Congratulations Dangira who passed today at Hornchurch. :) - Lee

* 10/02/2011. Well done Francesca who passed 1st time @ Tilbury with on 2 minors!! - Pete

* 11/02/2011. Congratulations Claudia who passed today! :) - Lee

* 14/02/2011 Well Done to Claire Prendergast who passed today at Basildon :o) - Pete

* 21/02/2011. Well done Siobhan Dyal who passed today at Belvedere :-) Julie

* 25/02/2011. Well done Dymitr who passed first time today at Erith with only 4 minors :o) - Naz

* 28/02/2011 Congratulations and well done Janice who passed at Brentwood :) - Lee

* 03/03/2011 Congratulations James Young who passed today at Hither Green :-) Julie

* 04/03/2011 Well done to Ben Trew who passed today at Erith :-) Julie

* 08/03/2011 Well done to Oliver Webb who passed today at Erith :-) Julie

* 10/03/2011 Congratulations to Tina Smith passed today at Basildon with only 2 minors :o))- Pete

* 18/03/2011 Well done to Zoe Naylor who passed today at Erith :-) Julie

* 23/03/2011 Congratulations to Reinet Keyter who passed today at Erith :-)

* 29/03/2011. Well done Jamie who passed at West Wickham today! - Rich

* 30/03/2011. Congratulations to Ian from Catford who passed today at West Wickham - Rich

* 01/04/2011. Well done to Nariete Fortunato who passed today at Erith. You worked so hard for it :) Julie

* 04/04/2011. Natasha, from Orpington passed today at West Wickham - Rich

* 04/04/2011. Zainab who passed at wanstead with only got 4 minors1 :) Well done! - Naz.

* 12/04/2011. Well done Beth Francis who passed @ West Wickham today :) - Mike

*13/04/2011. Well done to Charlie Dyckhoff who passed today @ Erith :) Julie

* 16/04/2011. Well done to Racquel Duarte who passed yesterday at Erith - Julie

* 8/05/2011. Well done Amelia who passed @ Chingford - Naz

* 12/05/2011. Congratulations to Alison Bassett who passed 1st time with only 4 minors - see you for your pass plus.-Julie

* 12/05/2011. Well done Meena who passed with only one minor @ Wanstead! - Naz

* 12/05/2011. Congratulations Charlotte who passed today @ Tilbury :) - Pete

* 17/05/2011. Well done Asma who passed at Barking today! - Naz

* 17/05/2011. Congratulations Adam who passed at Sevenoaks today - Rich

* 27/05/2011. Well done Emily who passed at West Wickham today- Rich :)

* 27/05/2011. Well done and congratulations to Emma Phillips who passed today at Erith :o) Julie

* 29/05/2011. Congratulations Rabaya who passed 2 day @ Goodmayes - Lee

* 31/05/2011. Congratulations Jenny who passed today! - Pete :)

* 31/05/2011. Well done William who passed @ Horchurch :) - Lee

* 01/06/2011. Congratulations to Robert Attwall who passed at Erith Julie :)

* 03/06/2011. Ogechi well done who passed her test @ Goodmayes :) - Lee

* 07/06/2011. Great stuff Elais, who passed today @ West Wickham - Mike

* 13/06/2011 Well done to Alex who passed today at Erith you worked so hard for it :-) Julie

* 17/06/2011. Myles well done for passing 1st time today @ Sidcup :) - Mike

* 24/06/2011. Well done Sophie who passed in Tilbury today :) - Pete

* 29/06/2011. Billy well done for passing at Hornchurch today :)

* 04/07/2011. Well done Pamilus who passed 1st time @ Hither Green today- Rich :)

* 07/07/2011. Congratulations Charley for passing 1st time @ West Wickham today! Great result :) - Mike

*18/07/2011. Well done Andy for passing today at Erith - Dave

* 18/07/2011. Congratulations Ellie for passing today at Hornchurch with only 1 minor :) - Lee

* 26/07/2011. Well done Sophie Reid who passed at Erith today :) Julie :)

* 05/08/2011. Congratulations Jade Smyrk for passing 1st time today @ Erith! See u 4 Pass plus - Julie

* 06/08/2011. Well done Molly for passing today @ West Wickham! Great result :) - Mike

* 09/08/2011. Well done to George Brace who passed 1st time today @ Erith :-) - Julie

* 10/)8/2011. Well done to Gordon Ferguson who passed 1st time @ Erith :-) - Julie

* 11/08/2011. Well done to Jessie King who passed 1st time today @ Erith only 3 minors :-) Julie

* 14/08/2011. Congratulations Amal for passing today at Wanstead - Naz

* 15/08/2011. Congratulations to Suzie Legg who passed today @ Erith :-) Julie

* 17/08/2011. Rodney Chambers, well done for passing today :) - Pete

* 19/08/2011. Congratulations to Bobby Dunne who passed today at Erith ;-) Julie

* 20/08/2011. Well done Ashley who passed at Wanstead today :) - Naz

* 05/09/2011. Congratulations to Bilal who passed at Sevenoaks today - Dave :)

* 06/09/2011. Well done Luke who passed at Wanstead this morning - Naz

* 06/09/2011. Another 1st time pass for Julie, well done Rebecca who passed at Erith :)

* 07/09/2011. Well done Awais who passed at Wanstead today - Naz

* 15/09/2011. Congratulations Terry Childs who passed today @ Erith :) - Julie

* 16/09/2011. Well done Carl Morgan who passed today! - Pete :)

* 20/09/2011. Congratulations to Alison Willis who passed today at Erith :-) Julie

* 21/09/2011. Well done Shilpa who passed her test today at West Wickham - Mike

* 07/10/2011. Well done Stuart who passed 1st time today with only 2 minors! - Mike

* 14/10/2011. Lexi well done today for passing at Belvedere :) - David

* 21/!0/2011. Congratulations to Malika Barnett who passed today at Belvedere :-) Julie

*24/10/2011. Well done Kelly Jarvis who passed 1st time today at West Wickham! :) - Mike

* 26/10/2011. WOW no minors! Well done Booby Lloyd whp passed today :) - Pete

* 27/10/2011. Well done Tommy Burnett who passed today at Belvedere! - :) Julie

* 10/11/2011. Congratulations Richard who passed today! - Julie :)

* 10/11/2011. Well done Michael who passed @ Tilbury today! - Pete :)

* 11/11/2011. Yeah! Well done Lucy who passed at West Wickham!! - Mike

* 15/11/2011. Excellent! Well done Svetlana for passing at Hornchurch :) - Lee

* 21/11/2011. Well done Linh for passing today! - Julie :)

* 21/11/2011. Congratulations Leah for passing today :) - David

* 28/11/2011 Congratulations to Michael Gbedmah who passed today @ Erith :-) Julie

* 01/12/2011 Well done Jacob who passed today at Hornchurch :) - Lee! :)

* 17/12/2011. Well done Danny Luc who passed today at Erith - Julie :)

* 20/12/2011. Great stuff & well done Alan Wong who passed today :) - Julie

Thank you everyone.

thedrivingskool.com

Drivers Supervising Learners Risk Breaking Law. thedrivingskool.com

2012-01-20T13:16:00.000-08:00

Drivers are risking fines, disqualification or jail because they do not know the rules on supervising learners, according to the AA.

The motoring group's survey of 19,000 members suggested nearly a quarter did not know it was illegal to use a mobile phone while out with a learner driver.

Nearly one in 10 respondents was unaware falling asleep was not allowed.

The law states that somebody supervising a learner driver is effectively in control of the car.

The AA said that in one case a supervisor was jailed after the learner was involved in a crash that killed two people.

It said many learners benefited from time spent with more experienced drivers, but suggested short driving courses for supervisors might be needed.

The AA/Populus survey suggested drivers were also breaking the law by drinking, sending text messages, or failing to wear their glasses while on practice runs with learners.

Some 23% of respondents did not know they would be breaking the law by using a mobile phone while supervising a learner.

And 13% were unaware of the need to wear glasses if they used them when driving themselves, while 9% did not realise that falling asleep in the passenger seat was illegal.

A total of 4% of respondents who had supervised learners admitted breaking at least one of these laws. The figure rose to 22% among supervisors aged 21 to 24.

The president of the AA, Edmund King, said the issue was highlighted by a case in which a person who was supposed to be supervising was over the drink-drive limit.

"This is where the legal point is quite serious because you are actually deemed to be in control of the car, even when you're supervising. And in fact there has been a case where tragically the learner driver actually had a crash, two people died and the supervisor was actually deemed responsible and actually went to jail."

Reducing Risk

AA Driving School director Simon Douglas said: "Learners who build on skills they gain in formal lessons by practising with family or friends have a better chance of passing their test and are likely to be safer behind the wheel.

"Yet drivers often lack confidence or don't know their responsibilities when supervising learners.

"Many are passing on bad driving habits or even risking a run-in with the law."

Road safety charity Brake said it wanted to see the minimum age for accompanying drivers raised to at least 25.

Katie Shephard from the charity said: "It is vital that learner drivers gain suitable supervised experience behind the wheel, to ensure their safety and the safety of other road users. Accompanying drivers should also be registered as 'approved accompanying drivers' by completing a questionnaire to prove their suitability, which could be checked by their insurer."

Duncan Vernon, road safety manager for the Royal Society for the Prevention of Accidents, said there was "no doubt" those who supervised learner drivers would benefit from being given more information about how best to teach.

"All-round good practice should involve better co-ordination with approved driving instructors, as well-planned private practice can be invaluable," he said.

"It gives the novice more experience in all kinds of conditions, thereby reducing the risk of them being involved in a crash once they have passed their test."

Source : www.bbc.co.uk/news

Show Me, Tell Me Official DSA Driving Test Questions with thedrivingskool.com

2012-01-19T07:28:00.000-08:00

Learn how to Parallel Park/Reverse Park with thedrivingskool.com

2012-01-19T07:26:00.000-08:00

Pete Shutz ADI Soundend & surrounding areas

2012-01-18T16:07:00.001-08:00

“I'm new to driving and I would like to thank Pete for coping with my nerves and giggle fits he did a good job at putting me at ease. I've now had three lessons and I love it! ”

Pete will really make you feel at ease He is extremely patient & friendly and you will really enjoy learning to drive with him! J

Just some of the great comments from our Driving Instructor Pete Shutz.

Pete covers Basildon, Hockley, Leigh on Sea, Rayleigh, Rochford, Southend, Westcliff on Sea and Wickford

Postcodes: SS0, SS1, SS3, SS4, SS5, SS6, SS8, SS9, SS11, SS12, SS13, SS14, SS15, SS16, SS22 & SS99

Not there? Let us know!

www.thedrivingskool.ocm
info@thedrivingskool.com
Office: 0333 123 0245

David Kenna Driving Instructor with thedrivingskool.com

2012-01-18T15:54:00.000-08:00

David covers South East London, Kent and as far south as Tonbridge.
"David has driven on the busy roads of London for over 30 years, experience he has found invaluable since he became a driving instructor. He will be more than happy to share his knowledge and experience with you to help you achieve your dream of getting on the road as quickly and as safely as possible. (As long as it's not a golf day!)

Postcodes covered: BR1, BR2, BR3, BR4, BR5, BR6, BR7, ME6, ME13, ME14, ME15, ME16, ME17, ME18, ME19, ME20, SE6, SE3, SE4, SE6, SE9, SE10, SE12, SE13, SE14, SE17, SE18, SE26, SE28, TN9, TN10, TN11, TN12, TN13, TN14, TN15 & finally TN16.

Office: 0333 123 0245
info@thedrivingskool.com
www.thedrivingskool.com

Driving Test - Top Tips to help you pass with thedrivingskool.com

2012-01-18T11:20:00.000-08:00

Warm up:
Have an hour's driving lesson around the area of the test centre on the day of your test. This will help you to warm up and get into the swing of things. You will also be aware of any new roadworks, obstructions etc and will feel more able to deal with them more easily.

Nerves:
If you start feeling shaky bag of nerves, breathe in, hold your breath, count up to 10 and out breathe out. Repeat this exercise until you gain control of your nerves. Once the test starts, you'll settle into your driving and your attention will be on the road rather than on your own feelings, and your nervousness should disappear.

Be confident:
Talk yourself – silently! – through the test. Talk about hazards coming up and how you are going to deal with them. This really focuses your mind on how you should be driving in order to pass the test.

Don't be afraid to ask:
If you don't understand what the examiner has asked you to do, don't be afraid to ask him or her to repeat the instruction. Remember your the customer!

Stay positive/Stay Focussed:
Before you start a manoeuvre, repeat to yourself three times – silently – "this is a piece of cake". Think positively at all times. You can do it!

Making a mistake:
If you feel you're messing up a manoeuvre, just pull forwards and do it again correctly. As long as you haven't done anything wrong, such as touching the kerb or failing to make effective observations, you can still pass.

Stalling: It can happen to anyone!
If you stall, deal with it and move on. As long as you don't stall in a dangerous situation, such as on a roundabout and as long as you handle it properly, this needn't count as a major fault and you can still pass your test.

Have I already failed?
If you feel you've made a mistake, don't instantly assume you've failed – it may only have been a minor fault. Put it behind you and carry on driving as well as you can.

Keep your eyes on the road:
Resist the temptation to look at the examiner and what he or she is writing. You will not be able to deduce anything anyway. Keep your attention on your driving and the road ahead!

Good Luck!

www.thedrivingskool.com

thedrivingskool.com contacts

2012-01-17T14:41:00.001-08:00

www.thedrivingskool.com
Office: 0333 123 0245
Mobile: 07919 193299
e-mail: info@thedrivingskool.com
Driving Instructors: lovewhatyoudo@thedrivingskool.com
Fleet Training: fleetraining@thedrivingskool.com

Areas covered 2012

2012-01-17T11:39:00.000-08:00

Where do we go? South East London, Kent & Essex.

Bromley:

Bromley, Keston, Beckenham, West Wickham, Orpington, Chislehurst and Swanley

Dartford:

Darford, Long field, Bexley, Bexleyheath, Erith, Greenhithe, Swanscombe, Sidcup, Welling and Belvedere

East London:

Waltham Forest, Newham, Barking and Redbridge.

Ilford:

Ilford, Chigwell, Woodford Green, Loughton and Barking.

Tonbridge:

Sevenoaks & Westerham

South London:

Abbeywood, Blackheath, Brockley, Camberwell, Catford, Charlton, Eltham, Greenwich, Hither Green, Woolwich, Sydenham and Thamesmead.

Romford:

Romford, Dagenham, Hornchurch, Rainham and Upminister

Southend:

Westcliff on Sea, Southend, Rochford, Hockley, Rayleigh, Benfleet, Leigh on Sea, Wickford and Basildon,

Romford, Dagenham, Hornchurch, Rainham & Upminster.

Ilford, Chigwell, Woodford Green, Buckhurst, Loughton & Barking.

Waltham Forest, Hackney, Barking & Redbridge.

Southend, Westcliff on Sea, Rochford, Rayleigh, Leigh on sea & Basildon

As you will see we do cover most of South East London, Kent & Essex. If your area is not listed please let us know as we may be able to help! E-mail: info@thedrivingskool.ocm or call 0333 123 0245

Theory test changes 23rd Jan 2012

2012-01-04T09:08:00.000-08:00

The difference between learning and revision

The DSA is to stop publishing the live multiple choice questions used in all theory tests, whilst still allowing the publication of practice, non-live theory test questions for revision purposes (the Official Revision Question Banks)

Why is the DSA doing this?

In 2008, the DSA consulted on the principle of not publishing any live questions. It was (and is) the case that many people prepare for their theory test by learning the questions and answers by rote, and just taking endless mock theory tests rather than understanding the theory behind the questions - knowledge and understanding which will keep them, and others, safe on the road. There was considerable support for what the DSA wants to achieve.

In September 2011, books and other learning materials using the theory test questions will need to change. This will take place at the same time as new case studies are introduced to the car and motorcycle theory tests.

There will be many new and exciting products produced to help the learner adapt to the changes. In preparation for the changes and to emphasis the distinction between Learning and Revision, we are now listing products under the following categories within their respective areas: Learning Resources and Revision Materials.

Christmas - Driving Lesson Gift Vouchers

2011-10-18T14:59:00.000-07:00

Driving Lesson Gift Vouchers: What a great idea

What’s the perfect Christmas present for the non driver in your life?

How about a driving lesson gift voucher from the driving skool.com?

Our driving gift vouchers start from as little as £18.00.

It beats a voucher from WHSmiths any day. Don’t just buy a voucher, buy a driving lesson voucher this Christmas!

All you need to do is contact us, tell us what you would like on the gift voucher, how much you would like it made out for, make payment and we will post it out to you.

Alternatively if you are in our area, we are only to happy to hand deliver your gift voucher and collect payment ....................its that easy!

When you learn to drive with the driving skool.com you'll enjoy:

* Friendly, patient, and fully qualified Driving Instructors
* A full hour or two hour lesson
* Test success in as few lessons as possible
* Convenient pick-ups from home, work or school
* New, dual control cars in automatic and manual
* Reduced driving lesson prices when you block book
* A choice of Driving Instructors
* Intensive driving courses
* Fleet Driver Training
* DIAmond accredited taxi training
* Driving lessons seven days a week

Areas covered:

Abbeywood, Blackheath, Brockley, Catford, Charlton, Eltham, Greenwich, Lewisham, New Cross, Hither Green, Mottingham, Woolwich & Thamesmead.

Bromley, Keston, Beckenham, West Wickham, Orpington, Chislehurst & Swanley.

Dartford, Crayford, Longfield, Bexley, Bexleyheath, Erith, Sidcup, Welling & Belvedere.

Rochester, Chatham, Gillingham & Sittingbourne.

Romford, Dagenham, Hornchurch, Rainham & Upminster.

Ilford, Chigwell, Woodford Green, Buckhurst, Loughton & Barking.

Waltham Forest, Hackney, Barking & Redbridge.

Southend, Westcliff on Sea, Rochford, Rayleigh, Leigh on sea & Basildon

For more details visit:

www.thedrivingskool.com

Clueless Driver Failed Test Five Times So Asked His Friend To Take It For Him - Who Also Messed It Up

2011-08-09T12:56:00.000-07:00

Dumb and dumber: Clueless driver failed test five times so asked his friend to take it for him - who also messed it up

A man who failed his driving test five times got a friend to take it for him - who then failed in 'spectacular fashion'.

Dim-witted Hadi Mohammed, 28, and Derbas Hamed, 25, cheated the test system and were both jailed after admitting the fraud.

Gloucester Crown Court heard that Hamed, a qualified driver, turned up at the test centre in the city pretending to be Mohammed.

But suspicions were immediately aroused when he arrived driving his own car without 'L' plates and without anyone else in the vehicle.

He then took the test in Mohammed's name and failed 'in a spectacular fashion', making 16 driving mistakes in the process.

Ex-Iraqi-police officer Mohammed was jailed for two months and father-of-two Hamed, who has a previous conviction for fraud after he impersonated someone else for a driving theory test, was sent to prison for three months

Both men, from Bristol, pleaded guilty to fraud by false representation, and were jailed by Recorder Michael De Navarro QC.

Rosie Walsh, prosecuting, said Mohammed claimed he had been too tired to take the test, and so hatched a plan with his friend as he was receiving a lift to the test centre.

Lloyd Jenkins, defending Hamed, said his client had 'realised what he was doing was wrong so he deliberately failed the test in a spectacular fashion' with 16 driving faults.

Giles Nelson, defending Mohammed, added: 'It was an extremely unsophisticated fraud, ridiculously unsophisticated and amateurish.

'He got nowhere near succeeding and is thoroughly ashamed. Since coming to this country from Iraq he is desperate to find work and needs a driving licence.'

Recorder Mr De Navarro told both defendants: 'This is a very serious offence and had you both been successful a completely unqualified driver and not a very good one at that would have been let loose on the roads.

'This would have meant a danger to other road-users and only a custodial sentence is justified. I do not accept Mr Hamed's contention that he failed the test deliberately.'

Source : www.dailymail.co.uk/news

ROAD SAFETY: Drivers Slow Down, And Fewer Pedestrians Die

2011-07-26T08:35:00.000-07:00

Latest road safety figures show that compliance with 30mph urban speed limits continues to improve while pedestrian fatality levels are falling.

In 1998, 69 per cent of cars were driven faster than the limit in 30mph zones in free-flow conditions, but by last year this had dropped to 46 per cent.

Those exceeding 40 mph in a 30mph limit has halved since 2003, now down to 16 per cent. At the same time, traffic levels are declining on all types of road – a trend observed from 2006 onwards, according to the government figures.

Pedestrian fatalities have also reduced significantly, down 40 per cent since 2005 from 671 to 405. Ninety-six per cent of pedestrian accidents happen on urban roads.

Reducing traffic speeds and risk in towns has been high on the road safety agenda, but rural roads, on which drivers are still most likely to be killed, now require even greater priority to reduce casualties further.

Institute of Advance Motorists director of policy and research Neil Greig said: “The good news is that drivers are not driving faster on the less crowded roads – and more people are sticking to the limit in urban areas where there are many hazards.

“A combination of consistent road safety messages, new road layouts and police enforcement appears to be paying road safety dividends for city people.

“However despite this positive effect in urban areas, road safety on rural roads, where the majority of serious accidents and fatalities occur, needs much more attention.

“In the UK, between two-thirds and three-quarters of fatalities occur on rural roads, yet driving on rural roads still isn’t a mandatory part of the basic driving test.

“Most young drivers get plenty of exposure to urban hazards but often their first experience of a rural road comes after the test when they are on their own. This is unacceptable.”

Source : www.leightonbuzzardonline.co.uk

DSA launches online directory of driving instructors

2011-07-22T12:43:00.000-07:00

The Driving Standards Agency (DSA) has launched an online directory of more than 30,000 qualified driving instructors on the government's central Directgov portal.

The 'Find your nearest driving instructor' is one of a number of 'Find your nearest' search facilities on Directgov and, according to the DSA, should make it easier for learner drivers to find qualified instructors in their area.

Learners will also be able to see if an instructor has signed up to the voluntary code of practice, which sets out the professional standards and business ethics expected of those working in the industry, and whether they are committed to continuing their professional development.

Road safety minister Mike Penning said: "I hope that this will allow people to make more informed choices about who they want to teach them to drive."

Five Cheap New Cars For Youngsters To Insure

2011-07-14T13:54:00.000-07:00

Insurance for young drivers is often extortionate, we highlight the top five cheapest new cars for young drivers to insure.

Young drivers who have just passed their test are not only facing expensive bills for learning to drive and actually purchasing a car – they are facing soaring car insurance costs that often greatly outstrip the former.

Car insurance costs have been driven up 40% in a year and youngsters are facing some of the biggest increases of them all.

There have be numerous stories of outrageous car insurance premiums that young drivers have been quoted and some are even turning to black boxes – a device that is fitted to your car to measure how well you drive – out of desperation.

A survey by Provisional Marmalade, who provide learner driver insurance, revealed that a staggering 93% of new drivers believe that they are being priced off the road, with many complaining of unrealistic insurance premiums once they go on to pass their test.

Nigel Lacy, of Provisional Marmalade said: ‘This is a very concerning trend as it will have a damaging effect on the economic mobility of this age group.

‘If we stand back and consider what is going on – young people cannot afford to leave the parental home, tuition fees are scaring many away from further education and now we have restricted mobility through exceptionally high motoring costs.’

Five Cheap Cars To Insure

This is Money, alongside motoring specialists Parkers.co.uk, has compiled a list of the top five cheapest new cars to insure:

VOLKSWAGEN FOX 1.2-LITRE URBAN 3DR

The cheapest new Volkswagen on sale is a cheap-to-run and easy-to-drive city runabout.

Don't let the low costs fool you though; it still has the classic VW traits with good build quality and decent refinement.

The little 1.2-litre engine has just 55bhp and good fuel economy, you'll soon notice the shortage of power as you bumble your way to 62mph in 17.5 seconds

VITAL STATISTICS
Price (new) - £8,165
Insurance Group - 1
CO2 emissions - 136g/km
Fuel economy - 48.7mpg
Power - 55bhp

FIAT PANDA 1.1-LITRE ACTIVE ECO 5DR

One of the most well-regarded small city cars thanks mainly to the huge amount of fun it provides when you're driving it.

The upright shape also means it is surprisingly spacious inside, as well as durable enough to take plenty of wear and tear.

Like the rest of the models here, the engine produces modest amounts of power (53bhp to be precise), but it will cruise along motorways quite happily as well as offer agile inner-city driving.

VITAL STATISTICS
Price (new) - £7,960
Insurance Group - 1
CO2 emissions - 119g/km
Fuel economy - 56.5mpg
Power - 53bhp

CHEVROLET SPARK 1.0-LITRE 5DR

The Spark is big step forward from the car which it replaced - the Matiz - in terms of both quality and refinement. It is still a little off some of the rivals, but it is all neatly styled.

The fact that it is a five-door also means it's more practical and spacious for passengers in the back than some of the other small cars that it's up against.

The little 1.0-litre engine might not pack much power, but it does offer excellent economy and low emissions

VITAL STATISTICS
Price (new) - £6,945
Insurance Group - 1
CO2 emissions - 119g/km
Fuel economy - 55.4mpg
Power - 67bhp

VAUXHALL CORSA 1.0-LITRE EXPRESSION EcoFLEX 3DR

A number of facelifts and engine revisions means that Vauxhall's little hatch has grown up over the years, but it's still possible to get a model that sits in the lowest insurance category.

The latest refresh has given it a much sharper look and turned it in to one of the best looking little cars currently on sale.

The ecoFLEX model also means emissions are fairly low - and so is the purchase price.

VITAL STATISTICS
Price (new) - £9,995
Insurance Group - 1
CO2 emissions - 117g/km
Fuel economy - 56.5mpg
Power - 64bhp

NISSAN PIXO 1.0-LITRE VISIA 5DR

The Pixo was co-developed by Nissan with Suzuki. It's practically identical to the Suzuki Alto.

It has an economical engine and low running costs but it can be tiring and noisy on the motorway.
A tiny boot, low-rent interior and lack of refinement only serve to make it less appealing than alternatives. It is, however, very cheap.

VITAL STATISTICS
Price (new) - £6,995
Insurance Group - 2
CO2 emissions - 103g/km
Fuel economy – 64 mpg
Power - 67bhp

the driving skool.com...........Hall of Fame 2011!

2011-06-08T08:26:00.000-07:00

Up to date form 1st Jan 2011 to the 7th June 2011.

A HUGE well done & congratulations to the following guys & girls who worked really hard and have successfully passed their practical test and now have FULL licences! :)

* 07/01/2011 Well done Chi who passed 2 day @ Erith with only 4minors! :-) Julie

* 10/01/2011. Well done Keey Cade who passed today :)- Lee

* 12/01/2011 Congratulations to Sam Stampe who passed 1st time with 1 minor at Erith all in 4 months as well :-) Julie

* 13/01/2011 Congratulations to Elain Reville who passed 1st time today at Erith see you for pass plus on 30/01/2011 :-))) Julie

* 15/01/2011. Well done Dave Hickson who passed @ Hornchurch today :) - Lee

* 17/01/2011 A great big well done to Christine Luc who passed today at Erith a well deserved pass :-) Julie

* 20/01/2011 Congratulations to Shah Hussan who passed today at Erith and only 3 minors :) Julie

* 25/01/2011. Well done Greg who passed @ West Wickham today!! - Mike

* 28/01/2011. Well done George who passed with only 3 minors :) - Rich

* 31/01/2011. Tarjan well done mate for passing today!Only 3 minors! - Mike

* 03/02/2011. Well gone to Glen who passed in Hornchurch today :) - Lee

* 04/02/2011. Well done to Sam Whitehead who passed today at Erith :-) Julie

* 07/02/2011. What a great result Lauren, only one minor! Well done! - Mike

* 08/02/2011.Congratulations Dangira who passed today at Hornchurch. :) - Lee

* 10/02/2011. Well done Francesca who passed 1st time @ Tilbury with on 2 minors!! - Pete

* 11/02/2011. Congratulations Claudia who passed today! :) - Lee

* 14/02/2011 Well Done to Claire Prendergast who passed today at Basildon :o) - Pete

* 21/02/2011. Well done Siobhan Dyal who passed today at Belvedere :-) Julie

* 25/02/2011. Well done Dymitr who passed first time today at Erith with only 4 minors :o) - Naz

* 28/02/2011 Congratulations and well done Janice who passed at Brentwood :) - Lee

* 03/03/2011 Congratulations James Young who passed today at Hither Green :-) Julie

* 04/03/2011 Well done to Ben Trew who passed today at Erith :-) Julie

* 08/03/2011 Well done to Oliver Webb who passed today at Erith :-) Julie

* 10/03/2011 Congratulations to Tina Smith passed today at Basildon with only 2 minors :o))- Pete

* 18/03/2011 Well done to Zoe Naylor who passed today at Erith :-) Julie

* 23/03/2011 Congratulations to Reinet Keyter who passed today at Erith :-)

* 29/03/2011. Well done Jamie who passed at West Wickham today! - Rich

* 30/03/2011. Congratulations to Ian from Catford who passed today at West Wickham - Rich

* 01/04/2011. Well done to Nariete Fortunato who passed today at Erith. You worked so hard for it :) Julie

* 04/04/2011. Natasha, from Orpington passed today at West Wickham - Rich

* 04/04/2011. Zainab who passed at wanstead with only got 4 minors1 :) Well done! - Naz.

* 12/04/2011. Well done Beth Francis who passed @ West Wickham today :) - Mike

*13/04/2011. Well done to Charlie Dyckhoff who passed today @ Erith :) Julie

* 16/04/2011. Well done to Racquel Duarte who passed yesterday at Erith - Julie

* 8/05/2011. Well done Amelia who passed @ Chingford - Naz

* 12/05/2011. Congratulations to Alison Bassett who passed 1st time with only 4 minors - see you for your pass plus.-Julie

* 12/05/2011. Well done Meena who passed with only one minor @ Wanstead! - Naz

* 12/05/2011. Congratulations Charlotte who passed today @ Tilbury :) - Pete

* 17/05/2011. Well done Asma who passed at Barking today! - Naz

* 17/05/2011. Congratulations Adam who passed at Sevenoaks today - Rich

* 27/05/2011. Well done Emily who passed at West Wickham today- Rich :)

* 27/05/2011. Well done and congratulations to Emma Phillips who passed today at Erith :o) Julie

* 31/05/2011. Congratulations Jenny who passed today! - Pete :)

* 01/06/2011. Congratulations to Robert Attwall who passed at Erith Julie :)

* 07/06/2011. Great stuff Elais, who passed today @ West Wickham - Mike

Pass Plus

GREAT! you’ve passed your driving test - now you can drive on your own at last. But it doesn’t stop there; this is just the end of the beginning……………..

Pass Plus

Is a training scheme for new drivers that we @ the driving skool.com feel passionate about and highly recommend. It's much more than just a few extra lessons. This specially designed course helps you:

Gain valuable driving experience

Build on your existing skills and knowledge

Reduce your risk of being in an accident

Save you money on car insurance premiums

Boast your confidence!

Pass Plus

Consists of 6 practical modules

Introduction and town driving

All weather driving

Out of town driving and rural roads

Night driving

Dual carriage ways

Motorway driving

There is no test at the end of it - your driving will be continually assessed and you must successfully complete all the modules in the course to an achieved or exceeded standard.

You can also visit the Pass Plus web site at www.passplus.org.uk/pass for more details speak to your instructor or visit our web site @ www.thedrivingskool.com

Intensive Courses with thedrivingskool.com

2011-04-20T12:28:00.000-07:00

Intensive courses are suitable for people who wish to get to test standard in a shorter period of time than the "traditional" one lesson a week method. Whether you are a beginner or have had some driving experience, an intensive course of driving lessons may be suitable for your needs.

Intensive courses are available in South East London, Kent & Essex.

These courses are particularly appropriate for people who find taking in a lot of information in a short time easy. If you are nervous about learning to drive or find that your concentration does not allow you to take in lots of information in a short space of time, you would be better considering spreading your lessons out over a longer period.

Intensive courses do need a certain amount of forward-planning as there are waiting times for both the theory and practical driving tests. In addition, courses will need to be booked to fit in with the availability of your instructor.

What Is An Intensive Course?

Intensive courses, Semi-Intensive Courses, Crash Courses, Fast Pass Courses...all of these mean basically the same thing - a course of driving lessons that get you to Practical Test standard in a shorter time scale than the "traditional" one driving lesson a week.

What Is Included In An Intensive Course?

Our prices cover driving tuition to the standard required for the Practical Test from an experienced Driving Standards Agency Approved Driving Instructor.

Our courses cover all aspects of the DSA’s Learning To Drive syllabus and our aim is to enable our students to become safe, confident and considerate drivers for life.

Prices do not include the fees for the Theory Test (£31.00) or the Practical Test (£62.00 weekdays/£75.00 evenings & weekends) which are booked through and payable to the Driving Standards Agency, not to your driving instructor.

Driving lessons will be spread out over a period of mutually convenient days or weeks in the run-up to your driving test.

Lesson duration will be for a maximum of 2 hours at any one time as our many years of experience have shown us that lessons of longer length tend to be far less effective for the learner due to tiredness and flagging concentration - learning to drive can be surprisingly tiring mentally & physically!

We find people learn more effectively and get better value for their money when they're not exhausted! The maximum number of hours of tuition we will offer in any one day is four hours - two hours in the morning and two hours in the afternoon with a decent break to "re-charge your batteries" in between!

Do You Offer 'Guaranteed Pass' Courses?

We do not offer "Guaranteed Pass" courses, neither do we offer courses with a pre-set number of hours and a test at the end.

We do not make unrealistic, empty promises! There's no such thing as a "Guaranteed Pass" - if there was, no-one would ever fail their driving test! The latter type of course doesn't work either.

We DON'T offer "one-size-fits-all" courses with a set number of hours because everyone is an individual and has different needs when it comes to learning to drive!

Selling customers 20 hours of lessons when they may only need 10 hours isn't the way we do things, nor do we agree with letting someone waste their time and money by taking their driving test after a set number of hours if they're not at the required standard.

Our intensive courses are designed for INDIVIDUALS - we tailor a course for the needs of each person to fit in with the way they learn best, their availability for lessons and their time scale.

How Long Is An Intensive Course?

The length of an intensive course varies from individual to individual and depends on several factors including:

How much tuition you need

Your availability to take lessons

Instructor availability

The length of time you have to wait for Theory and Practical Test appointments.

On the DirectGov website, the Driving Standards Agency (DSA) state "Those who pass their driving test have had, on average, about 47 hours of professional training combined with 20 hours of private practice." Learners who prepare this way, with a combination of plenty of professional training and plenty of practice, generally do better in the test.

In reality, everyone is different and learns at their own pace. The above information should only be used as a guide. Some people will need longer and some people need less.

Prior to starting an intensive course, you will need to have an assessment lesson with a driving instructor so that we can see what your current standard of driving is and then give an estimate of how many hours of tuition you are likely to need to get to test standard. The instructor can then tailor an individual course for you, to suit your needs, availability and time scale.

What Is The Cost Of An Intensive Course?

The total cost of an intensive course depends on how many hours it takes an individual to achieve the standard of driving required for the Practical Driving Test.

For more details please e-mail us @: info@thedrivingskool.com

Unisured Drivers. What are the government doing about it?

2011-04-18T08:57:00.000-07:00

A new system to tackle uninsured driving moved a step closer today as Road Safety Minister Mike Penning laid the final regulations in Parliament.

Under Continuous Insurance Enforcement it will be an offence to keep an uninsured vehicle, rather than just to drive when uninsured.

The regulations laid today will allow the DVLA to take action against those who ignore warnings to get their vehicle insured.

Mike Penning said:

"Uninsured drivers injure 23,000 people each year and add £30 to every responsible motorist’s premium so we need to do everything we can to keep them off the roads.

“These new powers will help us to take targeted action while freeing up police time to deal with the hard core of offenders.”

Under the new system:

* The DVLA will work in partnership with the Motor Insurers’ Bureau to identify uninsured vehicles.

* Motorists will receive a letter telling them that their vehicle appears to be uninsured and warning them that they will be fined unless they take action.

* If the keeper fails to insure the vehicle they will be given a £100 fine.

* If the vehicle remains uninsured - regardless of whether the fine is paid - it could then be clamped, seized and destroyed. The regulations laid in Parliament today would give the DVLA the powers to take this action.

* The vehicle will only be released when the keeper provides evidence that the registered keeper is no longer committing an offence of having no insurance and the person proposing to drive the vehicle away is insured to do so.

Vehicles with a valid Statutory Off Road Notice (SORN) will not be required to be insured.

It is planned for the first insurance advisory letters (which warn individuals that they appear to be uninsured) to be sent at the end of June following a publicity campaign to raise awareness of the CIE scheme.

The Motor Insurance Database (MID) will be used to identify registered keepers of vehicles that appear to have no insurance. All drivers can check their vehicle is recorded on the MID for free - visit www.askMID.com.

1. Latest estimates are that around 4% (around 1.4 million) of GB motorists drive uninsured. The penalty for driving without insurance is a maximum fine of £5,000 and 6-8 penalty points. Around 242,000 offenders are convicted for uninsured driving every year.

Currently every responsible motorist pays an average £30 each year within their premiums to cover crashes involving uninsured and untraced drivers. It is also estimated that uninsured and untraced drivers kill 160 people and injure 23,000 every year.

2. Measures already introduced in the Serious Organised Crime and Police Act 2005 gave police improved access to the Motor Insurers’ Bureau database and powers to seize vehicles. In 2009 around 180,000 vehicles were seized.

3. The Road Safety Act 2006 provided the primary powers for a new offence of being the keeper of a vehicle which does not meet insurance requirements. The offence of keeping a vehicle with no insurance came into force on 4 February 2011 commenced by the Road Safety Act 2006 (Commencement No. 6) Order 2011.

4. Supporting regulations which provided for exceptions to the offence came into force at the same time in the Motor Vehicles (Insurance Requirements) Regulations 2011). This instrument makes exceptions to that offence, provides that liability to conviction for the offence may be discharged by paying a fixed penalty of £100 and provides for the disclosure of information in connection with enforcement.

5. The Motor Vehicles (Insurance Requirements) (Immobilisation, Removal and Disposal) Regulations 2011 will allow persons authorised by the Secretary of State for Transport to fix an immobilisation devise (clamp) to vehicles where it is believed that an offence has been committed, and to remove and dispose of vehicles in relation to the offence of keeping a vehicle with no insurance. It also prescribes the release fee (£100) before the vehicle is released and the evidence individuals have to demonstrate in order to secure the release of the vehicle.

6. The Road Safety Act 2006 (Commencement No.7) Order 2011 is also made which will provide the mode of prosecution and specify the penalties for the new offences of interfering with or removing an immobilisation notice or device (clamp), and falsely displaying a disabled persons badge with the purpose of avoiding enforcement action.

So you want to learn how to drive?

2011-03-28T14:01:00.000-07:00

The provisional licence application form (D1) is available from your local Post Office, or apply on line. We at the driving skool.com recommend you apply about 3 months before your 17th birthday. You should then receive your licence back in time to book your driving lessons for your birthday.

You also need to check your eyesight. Can you read an old style number from 20.50 metres, or 20 metres for the new style number plate? (Approximately 5 car lengths). If you need to wear contact lenses, or glasses to do this, you must wear them whilst driving.

Preparing for Your Driving Lessons

Before your first driving lesson you can study the Highway Code and start preparing for your Theory Test. You can buy Highway Code books, DVD'S and other useful products online or when you start with us we supply them free of charge.

What to expect from your first driving lesson.

Most people are nervous about getting behind the wheel of a car for the first time, but don't worry! Your driving skool.com instructor will soon put you at ease. You will not be expected to drive off on a busy road on your first driving lesson so don;t worry :)

Your driving instructor will introduce you to the controls and safety aspects of the car, taking you through all of the levers and pedals and how to use them. After that you'll start the car up and drive it a little way down the road before bringing it to a stop. You will then be introduced to each stage of driving in manageable stages. Our driving lessons are structured in a way to enable you to pass your driving test in the quickest possible time.

Driving lessons can be structured to suit your individual needs. We advise you have one or two lessons per week.

Special educational needs with the driving skool.com

2011-03-28T13:25:00.000-07:00

Mastering the level of coordination and confidence necessary for driving is difficult for any aspiring young motorist, and it can be especially challenging for young people with special educational need

However with the right approach and a driving school that has experience teaching pupils with these conditions the learning experience can be both fun and enjoyable.

Dyslexia

The main difficulties that arise with this condition as far as driving lessons are concerned is poor organisational skills, remembering to do things in set sequence makes driving a lot easier, however with patients and repartition this can be overcome
Weaknesses in short term and working memory, speed of processing can all be overcome with slight adjustments to driving lessons and the lesson structure
Lefts and rights do not represent a problem, your driving instructor as well as giving verbal directions can give hand signals, pupils will not be asked to follow road signs on driving lessons and since the DSA will know you are dyslexic the same procedure for your driving lessons is adapted for your driving test

When you sit your theory test you can ask for a voiceover. You can also request to have up to double time for the multiple choice part of the theory test. If you require more than the standard time of 40 minutes for the multiple choice part you will need to send in evidence of your reading difficulty to the theory test booking customer services.

Dyspraxia

Relates to having poor motor skills clumsiness and co-ordination difficulties. Customers may also suffer from poor concentration leading to difficulties in retaining information and perceptual and spatial awareness problems

Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder

This can affect the customer in a way that they are easily side tracked and confused by too much going on around them, a very short attention span, failing to plan ahead and be noticeably restless and fidgety, and worst of all behaviour of people with ASHD can be inappropriate and unpredicality leading to a short fuse

Facilities for those with hearing difficulties

If you are deaf or have hearing difficulties you can ask to take the theory test in British sign language (BSL). The BSL interpretation will run alongside the standard test questions and answers. If you do not use BSL, an interpreter can be taken into the test centre, this facility needs to be arranged through the theory test customer services section. There is no extra fee for either facility. The Highway Code is also available in British sign Language
Other special requirements

If you have a special educational needs that is not met by the facilities above, you can contact the DSA customer services section who can discuss your requirements and the facilities available.

How can we help?

The first thing any customer wishing to learn to drive with any of the above has to do is tell their driving instructor. If you don’t it will just take longer, cost more and be a lot more frustrating for both parties

All the above can be overcome eventually by adjustments to lessons plans and driving lesson structure, they just take time with a patient, friendly and understanding driving instructor

Government crackdown on drink and drug driving

2011-03-21T10:30:00.000-07:00

A package of measures to tackle drink and drug driving was announced today by Transport Secretary Philip Hammond.

Improved testing equipment to detect drink and drug drivers will be given the green light and key changes made to streamline enforcement of both offences.

The government will also examine the case for a new specific drug driving offence – alongside the existing one – which would remove the need for the police to prove impairment on a case-by-case basis where a specified drug has been detected.

The measures are set out in the government’s response to the North Report on Drink and Drug Driving, which was published last year.

The prescribed alcohol limit for driving will not be changed, with the focus instead on improving enforcement and education to tackle the drink and drug drivers who put lives at risk.

Philip Hammond said:

“Drink and drug driving are serious offences and we are determined to ensure they are detected and punished effectively.

“It is just as dangerous to drive impaired by drugs as alcohol so we need to send a clear message that drug drivers are as likely to be caught as drink drivers and that drug driving is as socially unacceptable as drink driving has become. That is why we will approve drug-testing devices and change the law to speed up the testing process, ensuring the police can bring drug drivers to justice.

“The number of drink driving deaths has fallen by more than 75 per cent since 1979. But drink driving still kills hundreds of people so we need to take tough action against the small minority of drivers who flagrantly ignore the limit. Their behaviour is entrenched and after careful consideration we have concluded that improving enforcement is likely to have more impact on these dangerous people than lowering the limit.

“We are therefore taking forward a package of measures which will streamline enforcement, helping the police to target these most dangerous offenders and protect law-abiding road users.”

On drink driving the government will:

revoke the right for people whose evidential breath test result is less than 40% over the limit to opt for a blood test (the ‘statutory option’). The breath testing equipment used in police stations is now very accurate and technically sophisticated so a blood sample is not needed to confirm the breath test. The need to organise a blood sample can mean that drivers who were over the limit when breath tested have fallen below the limit by the time their blood sample is taken – removing the statutory option will eliminate this loophole
introduce a more robust drink drive rehabilitation scheme, so that we can require those drink drivers who are substantially in excess of the limit to take remedial training and a linked driving assessment before recovering their licence
approve portable evidential breath testing equipment for the police – this will speed up the testing process and free up police time
close a loophole used by high risk offenders to delay their medical examinations
streamline the procedure for testing drink drivers in hospital

On drug driving the Government will:

approve preliminary drug-testing equipment - initially for use in police stations, and at the roadside as soon as possible. The Home Office is currently testing six drug-testing devices and hopes to be able to take decisions on type-approval by the end of June.
allow custody nurses to advise the police whether or not a suspected driver has a condition that may be due to a drug. This will remove the need to call out police doctors and so speed up the testing process – ensuring that drug drivers do not escape punishment because a doctor is not available and also freeing up police time.
examine the case for a new specific drug driving offence – alongside the existing one – which would remove the need for the police to prove impairment on a case-by-case basis where a specified drug has been detected.

£99.00 x 10........Extended until end of Jan 2011 :)

2011-01-12T06:03:00.000-08:00

Entended until Jan 2011 we are doing 10 hours of one to one driving tuition with a fully qualifield DSA Instructor for only.................£99.00 :)

Areas covered: ME Postcodes: Rochester, Chatham, Gillingham & Sittingborne. SS Postcodes: Basildon, Hockley, Leigh on Sea, Rayleigh, Rochford, Southend, Westcliff on Sea & Wickford.

Terms and conditions do apply!

For more information, please e-mail address us @ info@thedrivingskool.com

www.thedrivingskool.com

£99.00 x 10 hours of one to one driving tuition

2010-12-26T10:59:00.000-08:00

For the months of November & December 2010 we are doing 10 hours of one to one driving tuition with a fully qualifield DSA Instructor for only.................£99.00 :)

Areas covered: ME Postcodes: Rochester, Chatham, Gillingham & Sittingborne. SS Postcodes: Basildon, Hockley, Leigh on Sea, Rayleigh, Rochford, Southend, Westcliff on Sea & Wickford.

Terms and conditions do apply!

For more information, please e-mail address us @ info@thedrivingskool.com

www.thedrivingskool.com

New Instructor: Naz Ahmed cvering Ilford & surrounding areas

2010-12-26T10:37:00.000-08:00

We would like to welcome Naz to the driving skool.com Naz starts with us on the 10th Jan 2011 and will be covering the following areas:

Romford, Dagenham, Hornchurch, Rainham, Upminister, Ilford, Chigwell, Woodford Green, Buckhurst, Loughton, Barking, Waltham Forest, Newham, Barking & Redbridge.

For more information visit our website @ www.thedrivingskool.com

Area coverage updates December 2010

2010-12-16T14:49:00.000-08:00

Bromley:

Bromley, Keston, Beckenham, West Wickham, Orpington, Chislehurst & Swanley

Dartford:

Longfield, Bexley, Bexleyheath, Erith, Greenhithe, Swanscombe, Gravesend, Sidcup, Welling, Belvedere & Erith

Romford:

Romford, Dagenham, Hornchurch, Rainham & Upminister

Ilford:

Ilford, Chigwell, Woodfood Green, Buckhurst, Loughton & Barking

East London:

Waltham Forrest, Hackney, Newham, Barking & Redbridge,

Maidstone:

Rochester, Chatham, Gillingham & Sittingbourne,

Southend:

Southend, Westcliff on Sea, Rochford, Hockley, Rayleigh, Leigh on Sea, Wickford & Basildon

South East London:

Abbeywood, Blackheath, Catford, Charlton, Deptford, Eltham, Greenwich, Lewisham, Woolwich, & Thamesmead

Not there? Let us know as we are always expanding!

Driving tests and bad weather

2010-12-08T12:15:00.000-08:00

Some driving tests may be affected by winter weather over the next few days.

The Met Office has forecast colder weather with snow showers becoming increasingly likely. Some parts of the country may have significant snowfall.

Your driving test

If you're due to take your practical test, follow the advice given on your appointment email or letter. You should call your test centre only if there is snow or ice in your local area on the day of your test.

DSA do not conduct tests in bad light or bad weather conditions for the safety of the candidate and the examiner. Another appointment will be arranged automatically at no further cost, but compensation is not payable.

A new appointment date is usually sent within three working days. This may take longer when there’s a period of prolonged bad weather.

If you haven't heard about a new appointment within seven working days, you can check the status of your booking online at direct.gov.uk/drivingtest.

If your test hasn't been rebooked at that time, you should call our customer service centre.

Fleet Driver training

2010-07-14T14:40:00.000-07:00

Fleet training

Our Fleet Trainer Harry has had over 25 years in the Fleet training industry working with Companies such as Shell Oil and their sub contractors including Group 4 and Hyundai.

We provide specialist training for your company drivers in order to help you reduce risks to your employees and vehicles, enabling you to reduce operational costs and to help you comply with current Heath & Safety regulations.

the driving skool.com provides a wide range of services specifically tailored to the needs of organisations and businesses that use vehicles as part of their business.

These services combine a range of tailor made workshops, seminars and in vehicle training as well as consultancy support designed to meet individual customer’s needs.

History Of The British Driving Test

2010-05-10T04:07:00.000-07:00

1930

Age restrictions and a form of driving tests brought in for disabled drivers. Full licences for disabled drivers valid for a year.

The Road Traffic Act 1930 introduces licensing system for PSVs.

1931

PSV drivers could be required to take a test, at discretion of Traffic Commissioners.

First edition of the Highway code introduced.

16 Feb 1934

Licences for lorry drivers are introduced under the Road Traffic Act, 1934. The licensing authority may require the applicant to submit to a practical test of their ability.

1935

Voluntary testing is introduced by the Road Traffic Act, 1934, to avoid a rush of candidates when the test becomes compulsory.

Mr J Beene is the first person to pass his driving test, at a cost of 7 / 6d (£0.37.5 new pence)

1 Jun 1935

Compulsory testing brought in for all drivers who started driving on or after 1 Apr 1934:

•around 246,000 candidates apply
•the pass rate is 63%,
•250 examiners taking at least nine, and up to sixteen, half-hour driving tests a day.
Examining staff also make all test bookings. There are no test centres, examiners meet candidates at a pre-arranged spot such as a car park or railway station.

Anyone buying a driving licence must put ‘L’ plates on the car and eventually take a driving test to get their full licence.

2 Sept 1939

Driving tests suspended for the duration of World War Two and resumed on 1 November 1946. During the war, examiners are designated Traffic Officers and supervise fuel rationing.

1 Jan 1940

HGV licences and tests are suspended during World War Two.

18 Feb 1947

A period of a year granted for wartime provisional licences to be converted into full licence without passing the test.

1950

The pass rate for the driving test is 50%.

19 Oct 1956

The test fee doubles from 10 shillings to £1

24 Nov 1956

Testing suspended again during the Suez Crisis. Learners allowed to drive unaccompanied and examiners help to administer petrol rations.

Testing is resumed on 15 April 1957 and has continued uninterrupted ever since.

1959

Examiner training transferred to the newly acquired Stanmore Training School. Up until now, examiners have been trained ‘on the job’

1963

New grouping systems are introduced for driving tests and driving licences and a distinction is made between the test of competence and the test of fitness.

The Road Traffic Act 1962 permits riders to ride motorcycles of more than 250cc after passing their test.

Mopeds are placed in their own vehicle group for driving test purposes.

1 May 1965

The application form for a driving licence is revised.

The distance from which a driving test candidate must be able read a number plate is changed to 67 feet for 3 1/8 inch high characters.

10 May 1967

The Road Safety Act 1967 paves the way for regulations covering the licensing and testing of HGV drivers.

2 Jul 1968

The test fee rises to £1.15 shillings.

2 Jun 1969

Vehicles used in the test must not have dual accelerator control unless this has been made inoperable.

A separate driving licence group for automatic vehicles is introduced.

Candidates are required to produce their driving licence to the examiner at the test and sign the examiner’s attendance record. Examiners may refuse to conduct a test if these requirements are not fulfilled.

25 Jun 1969

The Vehicle and Driver Licences Act introduces new regulations, including a licence fee increase and the specification of vehicle groupings for the purposes of driving tests.

4 Aug 1969

An up-to-date scheme is introduced for licensing and testing new lorry drivers:

1970

The new HGV test prompts a change in PSV testing. Until now vehicle inspectors have carried out PSV driving tests: this is taken over by examiners who are now HGV qualified.

1972

The demand for driving tests rises by 20%, and a further 15% in the following year, leading to a huge backlog of tests.

May 1975

Candidates no longer have to demonstrate arm signals

July 1976

The Driving Establishment for testing examiners moves to Cardington. Newly recruited ‘L’ test examiners undergo four weeks of training.

Mar 1985

Passenger service vehicle (PSV) driving tests become compulsory. Up until now, Traffic Commissioners decided whether local applicants took the test.

1988

From now on driving tests are conducted under the provisions of the Road Traffic Act 1988.

1 Oct 1989

Prompted by alarming accident figures, the old-style ‘Part 2’ motorcycle test, where the examiner stands by the roadside, is replaced by the new, more demanding ‘pursuit test’. The examiner now follows the candidate on a motorcycle or in a car and maintains radio contact during the test.

1 Apr 1990

The Driving Standards Agency (DSA) is created as an executive agency of the Department for Transport..

1 May 1990

Examiners give candidates a brief explanation of faults committed during the test, plus advice on areas for improvement.

Nov 1995

The Pass Plus scheme is introduced to help newly qualified young drivers gain valuable driving experience and gain valuable driving experience and reduce the risk of them being involved in an accident.

1 Jul 1996

A separate written theory test introduced, replacing questions asked about the Highway Code during practical test.

Candidates now have to produce their driving licence for their test.

1 Jan 1997

A new test category is created for a car with large trailer (B+E).

Licence categories and tests are introduced for Direct Access and small motorcycles

The written theory test is introduced for LGV and PCV drivers.

1 Mar 1997

Photographic ID is now required for both practical and theory tests

1 Jun 1997

If a new driver gains six or more penalty points during the first two years of driving, they lose their licence and must retake both the theory and practical driving test before being allowed back on the roads

29 Sept 1997

For Car and Motorcycle Drivers, the minimum wait between tests of the same category is reintroduced for unsuccessful candidates, set at ten days.

For Lorry and Bus Driver testing, a minimum wait of three days between tests of the same category for unsuccessful candidates is introduced.

6 Apr 1999

Cars being used for a driving test must now have a front passenger seat belt, head restraint and rear-view mirror.

4 May 1999

Changes to the ‘L’ test include extending the length of the test, randomising the emergency stop manoeuvre and failing candidates for committing 16 or more driving faults

4 Jan 2000

The touch-screen theory test is introduced.

1 Feb 2001

People gaining a full car licence must now take CBT before being able to ride a moped.

19 Dec 2001

Candidates can now book their theory test via the internet

14 Nov 2002

A hazard perception element is introduced into the theory test; this uses video clips to test candidates’ awareness of hazards on the road.

01 Sept 2003

Show me/Tell me vehicle safety questions added to the beginning of the driving test.

24 Oct 2003

Candidates can now book their practical driving test via the internet

Source : http://www.dsa.gov.uk/Category.asp?cat=343

Under 17 off road driving experience

2010-03-29T12:40:00.001-07:00

Most teenagers would jump at the opportunity to learn to drive before they turn 17. With our Under 17 off road experience, they can.

This is NOT just a 'Have a Go' day. Our fully qualified, full time driving instructors will teach the official DSA Syllabus for learning to drive.

Learn the basics of clutch control, gear changing and approaching junctions in the safety of a 12 acre private road network so that your first on-road drive is a safer, more enjoyable and productive experience.

We do special course rates for groups, Schools & Colleges. These days out also make fantastic presents and are available as gift vouchers

Pass Plus

2010-02-26T10:35:00.000-08:00

About Pass Plus

Pass Plus is an established training course aimed at new drivers. It was designed by the Driving Standards Agency (DSA) with the help of insurers and the driving instruction industry.

Statistics show that new drivers are more likely to have an accident in the first two years after passing their test, due to lack of driving experience.

Pass Plus builds on your skills and knowledge. It will teach you how to anticipate, plan for and deal with all kinds of hazards, to help you become a more confident driver.

Who can do Pass Plus training

You can take a Pass Plus course at any time, but it’s mainly aimed at new drivers in the first year after passing their test.
Pass Plus modules

Pass Plus consists of six modules about driving in different conditions:

* in town
* in all weathers
* on rural roads
* at night
* on dual carriageways
* on motorways

* Pass Plus modules

The cost of a Pass Plus course

Your Pass Plus course fees will vary depending on where you live, the instructor or driving school you choose, and how long your training takes. The course takes at least six hours.

Contact us for more details: info@thedrivingskool.com

Brake Calls On The Government To Raise Driving Test Minimum Age

2010-02-26T06:28:00.000-08:00

Gary Pitchford was killed when his girlfriend, uninsured learner driver Anna Marie Hibben, lost control of the car when speeding down a country road at night.

This case highlights the urgent need for tougher regulation of young drivers, who, by the nature of their age, take more risks on the road.

Mary Williams OBE, Brake’s Chief Executive, said: “Young people’s cognitive abilities finish developing in their mid-20’s, while their thrill seeking tendencies are developed by the time they are about 15.”

“Brake has been calling for the driving test age to be raised to 18 or even higher. The higher you go, the fewer deaths you will have, as long as enforcement is toughened up to prevent unlicensed, uninsured drivers too.”

The UK Government consultation ‘Learning to drive’ identified that there was support for “increased regulation of the way that people learn to drive, or the placing of post-test restrictions on newly-qualified drivers” and promised to “continue to monitor any emerging evidence from other countries relating to increased regulation and post-test restrictions”.

More 15-24 year-olds die on the roads than from any other cause.

Williams said: “We cannot delay anymore in introducing these measures which are proven to work, popularly supported and would prevent more tragedies such as the death of Gary Pitchford.”

Customer feedback

2010-02-23T08:32:00.000-08:00

Just thought I'd write on here to show my appreciation for what Mike, Jason and the driving skool did for me. I had a great time learning with them and I couldn't have done it without the help I got from them. So yeah cheers!!!! James Hamel

Happy 75th Birthday, Driving Test!

2010-02-17T13:50:00.000-08:00

2010 is the 75th anniversary year of the driving test. The introduction of the driving test in 1935 was radical at the time.

When an initial 250 examiners set about making the first test bookings, the norm was to pre-arrange a meeting with
candidates at car parks, railway stations or other landmarks, as test centres didn’t exist.

In the early days, examiners routinely conducted up to 16 tests each day! Nowadays, our 2,000 examiners conduct up to seven car tests daily.

Of course, there have been other updates and revisions to the test since the thirties – the introduction of the theory test and hazard perception test, and the ‘show me, tell me’ element of the practical test, for example.

These changes have had a positive impact on our road safety, as we have the second safest roads in Europe.

Long-serving instructors will have their own memories of how the test has changed over the years. Others will have favourite anecdotes that provide an insight into the test’s
history, and photographs or documents that illustrate how
far things have moved on.

Source : DSA

£60.00 x 4 hours, my thats good value :)

2010-02-15T11:13:00.000-08:00

Southend, Hockley, Leigh on Sea, Rayleigh, Rochford, Westcliff on Sea & Wickford

4 HOURS FOR £60.00 :)

In car theory tuition
DSA approved driving instructors
Lessons for a full 1 or 2 hours. We work around you!
Block booking discounts
Free pick up from your local college/school or work place
Intensive courses available
Booking service available for practical & theory tests
Books and CD-ROMS available for you to use
Pass Plus
Theory materials for those helping you with that private practice
Refresher courses
Progress trackers
Motorway tuition
Gift vouchers 4 that special occasion
Student discounts
New 2 UK roads? We can help!
Female instructors
No car sharing!

Valid for the the month of Feb 2010 only. 1st 4 hours only.

Driving Instructor Southend Peter Shutz ADI The driving school

2010-02-13T12:06:00.000-08:00

Postcodes covered: SS0, SS1, SS3, SS4, SS5, SS6, SS8, SS9, SS11, SS12, SS13, SS14, SS15 and SS16

Our Driving Instructor Pete covers Basildon, Hockley, Leigh on Sea, Rayleigh, Rochford, Southend, Westcliff on Sea and Wickford

Pete is one of the most patient Driving Instructors I have ever met! He also have a fantastic 1st time pass rate and most his customers come back to him for Pass Plus! He is very flexible with his customers and does driving lessons 7 days a week and often late into the evening always putting his pupils first!

Feedback from learning to drive with Pete Shutz @ the driving school
I'm new to driving and I would like to thank Pete (Southend) for coping with my nerves and giggle fits he did a good job at putting me at ease. I've now had three lessons and I’m absolutely loving it, roll on lesson number 4!

Pete thank you for all your hard work! You made my driving lessons fun and really put me at my ease! Thanks for picking me up all over Southend and sometimes even Rochford over the last few months, you really worked hard in fitting my driving lessons around my hectic life! Many thanks and I will see you for Pass Plus!

Call us on 0333 123 0245 to have a chat about booking some driving lessons with Pete Shutz or you can e-mail the driving school via our contact page on our website. You can view more of our customer feedback on
Welcome to the driving school Facebook

Driving Instructor in Rochester Lynne Steel The driving school

2010-02-13T12:04:00.000-08:00

Postcodes covered: ME1, ME2, ME4, ME5, ME6, ME7, ME8, ME14, ME15, ME16, ME17, ME18, ME20, TN9, TN10, TN11, TN12, TN13, TN14, TN15 and TN16

Lynne our Driving Instructor in Rochester covers Chatham, Snodland, Gillingham, Maidstone, Aylesford, Tonbridge, Sevenoaks, Biggin Hill and Westerham

Driving lessons with Lynne are always fun! She is friendly and relaxed and will really make you feel comfortable while learning to drive. Lynne is extremely patient and I think that comes with having 2 young girls running around the house!

Feedback from learning to drive with Lynne Steel @ the driving school

Lynne was always very professional and made learning a lot of fun! She never gave up on me and I passed my driving test 1st time! Thanks Lynne for all your help and thanks Mike @ the driving school for organising everything!

I did a refresher driving course with Lynne as I hadn’t driven for 10 years. She made me feel really relaxed and gave me lots of confidence, never rushing me. Thank you Lynne for all your hard work
Call us on 0333 123 0245 to have a chat about booking some driving lessons with Lynne Steel or you can e-mail the driving school via our contact page on our website. You can view more of our customer feedback on Facebook

Driving Instructor in Belvedere Julie White ADI The driving school

2010-02-13T12:02:00.000-08:00

Postcodes covered: SE2, SE3, SE7, SE9, SE10, SE18, SE28, DA15, DA16, DA5, DA6 and DA7

Our driving instructor Julie covers Abbeywood, Blackheath, Charlton, Eltham, Greenwich, Woolwich, Thamesmead, Sidcup, Welling, Bexley, Bexleyheath, Belvedere and of course Plumstead where she lives

Julie is our workaholic driving instructor who truly loves what she does! Julie will often work 7 days a week doing driving lessons as she doesn’t like to let any of her customers down. What spare time she has Julie belongs to her daughters school PTA which keeps her very busy. Julie provides some of the best driving instruction ever seen! We haven’t enough room here for all the fantastic comments Julie has received from her customers

Feedback from learning to drive with Julie White @ the driving school
I passed today! Thanks Julie, you’re a fantastic driving instructor!
Thank you Julie for everything :) I would never have been able to pass without you! You are the best driving Instructor there is! It feels great I can now legally drive on the roads! It gives me so much independence you wouldn't believe!! Once again thank you very much the driving school
THIS IS A MESSAGE FOR MY STAR JULIE WHITE! COULD NEVER AND WOULD NEVER HAVE PASSED MY TEST WITHOUT YOU! YOUR BRILLIANT AND SHOULD BE VERY PROUD. THANK U FOR EVERYTHING X
Agree With Esma, Julie White Is A Brilliant Instructor, 3 Months Of Lessons, Just Over 20 Hours And Passed With 2 Minors!!!

Julie and the driving school thank you so much!
Will recommend to all my friends. Thanks for everything Julie! You’re the Best Driving Instructor!

Highly Recommended! The driving school!
Call us on 0333 123 0245 to have a chat about booking some driving lessons with Julie White or you can e-mail the driving school via our contact page on our website. You can view more of our customer feedback on Facebook

Driving Instructor in Chislehurst Mike Jack ADI The driving school

2010-02-13T12:00:00.000-08:00

Postcodes covered: BR3, BR5, and BR7

I do driving lessons where ever I am told to go! I mainly cover Chislehurst, Beckenham and West Wickham

The passion for meeting people got into this industry & I love what I do and although learning to drive is an extremely serious business I like to make my lessons fun and enjoyable (for both of us & if you laugh at my jokes you will really enjoy learning with me !) The picture is of me on the left taking one of our younger customers on our “off road” under 17 experiences. These days out make fantastic presents and are available as gift vouchers. I also do the Taxi training throughout South East London, Kent & Essex

Feedback from learning to drive with Mike Jack @ the driving school

Best feeling ever today! Passing 1st time with only 4 minors. Thank you so much Mike for all your hard work (and for putting up with my randomness lol) and I hope to see ya soon for Pass Plus! Thanks again! From your Scottish friend.

AHHHH what to say....Well lessons with the driving school was amazing every lesson was pretty much a laugh. Mike was a great Driving Instructor & a great guy loved every minute! Great memories and would highly recommend it to anyone looking for lessons.

Thank you for helping me pass my test first time Mike! I never thought I would pass it first time but you gave me so much help, I felt comfortable and confident knowing that when I went wrong you helped me get it right without getting frustrated and find another way of doing it (parallel park) Thanks the driving school
Thanks a lot Mike, Definitely the best driving instructor in the world! I am constantly out now driving thank you so much x

Thanks a lot mike for all your help with getting me to pass my test 1st time! I’m really pleased that I had a fun time learning to drive with many laughs rather than a boring old pensioner teaching me! Although Mike your nearly there age wise HA HA only joking! Mike always fitted around me for when I could make time for lessons which was really good! Thanks again Mike for all your help! Sure I’ll see you driving around sometime

Call us on 0333 123 0245 to have a chat about booking some driving lessons with Mike Jack or you can e-mail the driving school via our contact page on our website. You can view more of our customer feedback on Facebook

Driving Instructor in Romford Lee Moughton ADI The driving school

2010-02-13T11:58:00.000-08:00

Postcodes covered: RM1, RM2, RM3, RM4, RM5, RM6, RM7, RM8, RM8, RM10, RM11, RM12, RM13, RM14, IG1, IG2, IG3, IG4, IG5, IG6, IG11, E6, and E13
Lee provides driving instruction in Collier Row, Romford, Hornchurch, Harold Hill, Hainault, Chigwell, Chadwell Heath, Dagenham, Barking, Ilford, Rainham, Barkingside, Fullwell Cross, Marks Gate, Upminster, Plaistow and East Ham
Lee is a part-time Driving Instructor and works as a Fireman full-time driving the Fire engine! So when it comes to teaching people to drive Lee has great expertise and knowledge he can pass on along with a fantastic sense of humour and lots of stories to tell! The picture on the left is Lee on the left doing one of his under 17 year old “off road training days”.

Feedback from learning to drive with Lee Moughton @ the driving school
Lee is a dream of a Driving Instructor! Having come off a nightmare driving instructor, he is the other extreme. He is great with building up your confidence and useful tips for every situation. Most importantly, you will be at ease under his tutelage because he is a genuine nice guy with great people skills. Driving tuition was Lee was fun and I really enjoyed each lesson! Thanks Lee & the driving school
Call us on 0333 123 0245 to have a chat about booking some driving lessons with Lee Moughton or you can e-mail the driving school via our contact page on our website. You can view more of our customer feedback on Facebook

Driving Instructor in Dartford Jason Roberts ADI The driving school

2010-02-13T11:56:00.000-08:00

Postcodes covered: DA1, DA2, DA3, DA4, DA5, DA6, DA7, DA8, DA9, DA10, DA14, DA15, DA16, DA17, DA18 and BR8

Jason’s driving lessons cover Dartford, Crayford, Barns Cray, Longfield, Bexley, Bexleyheath, Erith, Greenhithe, Swanscombe, Sidcup, Welling, Belvedere and Swanley and he has been know to stray even further afield!

Jason is a member of the DIA and also holds the RoSPA Advanced Driving test gold standard certificate. You will find Jason very friendly and patient with a great sense of humour which comes in very handy when you’re a driving instructor!

Feedback from learning to drive with Jason Roberts @ the driving school

I just want 2 say a big thank u 2 Jason 4 being a wicked instructor! I couldn’t have done it without him. Thanks

Jason Roberts is a legend! Cheers mate

Just wanted to say a big thank you to Jason for helping me pass today! I would highly recommend him to anyone :)
Passed 1st time today!! Thanks to Jason Roberts who is by far the best instructor- very relaxed and good fun- what will I do with my Saturday mornings now without my weekly gossip and laughs!! See you on the pass plus! Good Luck to all learners at the driving School!
Call us on 0333 123 0245 to have a chat about booking some driving lessons with Jason or you can e-mail the driving school via our contact page on our website. You can view more of our customer feedback on Facebook

Driving Instructor in Orpington Richard Heath ADI The driving school

2010-02-13T11:39:00.000-08:00

Postcodes covered: BR1, BR2, BR3, BR4, BR5, BR6 and BR7

Richard specialises in giving driving lessons in Orpington and all the surrounding areas such as Petts Wood, St Pauls Cary, St Mary Cray, Bromley, Hayes, Chislehurst, Beckenham, Shortlands, Downham, Keston, and West Wickham

Richard has the patience of a saint and is highly supportive of his customers. He is very relaxed and has a wonderful sense of humour!

Feedback from learning to drive with Richard Heath @ the driving school

Richard thanks for all the support you have given me with learning to drive! You’re a top instructor and you made learning a real fun experience! Who actually thought learning to drive could be fun!

Thanks Rich for all your hard work & especially your patience. You really gave me great confidence in believing I could pass 1st time! Thanks for everything & see you soon for Pass plus. Thanks again

Call us on 0333 123 0245 to have a chat about booking some driving lessons with Richard Heath you can e-mail the driving school via our contact page on our website. You can view more of our customer feedback on Facebook

Driving Instructor in South East London Mark Weston ADI The driving school

2010-02-13T11:33:00.000-08:00

Postcodes covered: SE3, SE4, SE6, SE8, SE10, SE12, SE13, SE14, SE15 and SE16

Our Driving Instructor Mark gives driving lessons in South East London covering Blackheath, Brockley, Catford, Deptford, Greenwich, Lee, Lewisham, Hither Green, Woolwich, Eltham, New Cross, Peckham, and Rotherhithe.

Mark does a lot of our “off road” driving experiences (available as gift vouchers) which is a chance for anyone under the age of 17 years old who wants to get an early start in a safe and secure environment under the careful eye of a driving instructor!

Feedback from learning to drive with Mark Weston @ the driving school

Hi guys, I just wanted to say a MASSIVE thank you to the driving school and especially my instructor Mark! My experience and driving lessons were great, I wanted to drive for a long time but never quite committed, once I had my first lesson I couldn't wait for the next one! My instructor made me feel comfortable and confident behind the wheel and made the learning process interesting and fun so when it came to taking my test I felt that I was ready to pass! Thank you Mark and the driving school.

Thanks Mark For Helping Me Pass My Test Today!! Excellent Instructor & Highly Recommended. Thanks the driving school

HI, I JUST PASSED MY DRIVING TEST YESTERDAY AFTER HAVING LESSONS WITH ONE OF
YOUR RELIABLE AND EXPERIENCE INSTRUCTOR (MARK).
NOW, I WANTED TO FIND OUT ABOUT THE PASS PLUS, THE DURATION AND THE PRICE.
PLEASE, COULD YOU LET ME KNOW AND MAYBE WILL BE INTERESTED IN, DOING PASS PLUS AS SOON AS I HAVE THE TIME AND THE MONEY.

Call us on 0333 123 0245 to have a chat about booking some driving lessons with Mark Weston or you can e-mail the driving school via our contact page on our website. You can view more of our customer feedback on Facebook

Areas we cover:

2010-02-13T10:57:00.000-08:00

Where do we go?

Abbeywood, Blackheath, Brockley, Catford, Charlton, Deptford, Eltham, Mottingham, Greenwich, Lee, Lewisham, New Cross, Hither Green, Peckham, Rotherhithe, Woolwich & Thamesmead, Dartford, Crayford, Longfield, Bexley, Bexleyheath, Erith, Greenhithe, Swanscombe, Sidcup, Welling, Belvedere, Bromley, Keston, Beckenham, West Wickham, Orpington, Chislehurst, Swanley, Maidstone, Snodland, Tonbridge, Aylesford, Sevenoaks, Biggin Hill and Westerham

Across the river

Collier Row, Romford, Hornchurch, Harold Hill, Hainault, Chigwell, Chadwell Heath, Dagenham, Barking, Ilford, Rainham, Barkingside, Fullwell Cross, Marks Gate, Upminster, Plaistow and East Ham

By the sea

Basildon, Hockley, Leigh on Sea, Rayleigh, Rochford, Southend, Westcliff on Sea and Wickford

WOW! We do cover most of South East London, Kent & Essex, but if you’re area’s not there please let us know as we are always expanding!