About Me
Following a most successful 33-year career in the Royal Air Force, the time came to move on. Having been involved in driver training in the RAF since 1993, progression into driver training professionally seemed to be a logical step. I have mentored and coached young and vulnerable people since 1989 so my interpersonal skills are well developed, I am easy to get along with. My considerable managerial training and experience enables me to be flexible and extremely versatile.
Since passing my driving test in 1975 I have driven a wide variety of vehicles, from small cars and robust 4x4's through vans and minibuses right up to 40-ton trucks with trailers. I have driven left and right hand drive, on and off road, on the left and in Europe and Canada on the right. I have won minor trophies Cart Racing, moving up to saloon cars on track and then briefly into a Single seat Formula Renault.
I now run an independent driving school in Swindon, also covering the surrounding villages. I am a fully qualified Driver & Vehicle Standards Agency Approved Driving Instructor (DVSA ADI (car)) licensed to teach car drivers and I can take you from complete novice right through to Pass Plus and beyond. I'm also a qualified Emergency First Aider
The DVSA ADI (car) award followed a rigorous training programme undertaken over a period of 12 months. It comprehensively tested my knowledge of driving theory and hazard perception, my personal driving skills and finally examined my teaching skills.
When choosing a driving instructor you should always insist on the ADI rather than the PDI (trainee) qualification. PDI trainers are often used by national driving schools enabling them to gain experience whilst earning ‘on the job’. Because of their franchise fees you probably won’t get a discount despite their part qualified status and as only 18% of potential candidates that embark on a career of driving instruction eventually fully qualify, the chances of completing your course of instruction with the same person is remote.
A good ADI needs to be patient, courteous and approachable whilst remaining focused and alert to developing situations and the needs of the individual.
I have had great successes with my calm, relaxed demeanour and I am renowned for my exceptional patience and good nature. I have a proven track record
with nervous clients and those either dissatisfied or uncomfortable with other instructors, see the testimonials page;
being on the DSA ADI Register certifies that I am an honourable person. I have been vetted by the
Criminal Records Bureau for my suitability to work with young people and I adhere to the
Driving Instructors Code of Conduct.