FAQs:

How many driving lessons will I need?

Everyone is different and will need a different number of lessons. Other relevant factors may include whether you’ve ridden a motorbike and whether you will get practice in your own car in addition to your lessons. Most Instructors agree that for most people it is between 1 & 2 lessons per year of your life. So a 20 year old could take between 20 & 40 lessons. Remember, it’s not just being able to control the car, but also about gaining experience in different situations. Also there is a basic syllabus of lessons that all Instructors teach that needs to be fully covered by everyone. It is unrealistic to expect to cover the syllabus in less than 20 lessons. The DSA are concerned that many candidates have not had enough lessons before taking the test. Their statistics show that the average is 45 lessons + lots of private practice.

Do I have to have an Instructor?

No. However, Driving Instructors are highly qualified and it is unlikely that you will pass without professional help from an Instructor.

Do all Instructors teach the same things?

All Instructors know that there is a basic syllabus that needs to be covered. However, Instructors do have considerable freedom to teach people in the way that they find works the best. Be assured however, that Instructors are regularly check-tested by the DSA to ensure that their Instruction is up to scratch.

Do you charge for cancellations?

Not normally, but if you constantly cancel with little notice your instructor may charge you. This is simply because they cannot fill your slot with just a few hours notice. If an instructor turns up to collect you and you are not there, you will be charged. We are fair and honest in everything, so we hate charging for cancellations and we wont if you have a genuine reason or if you are unwell.

What car will i drive?

At the moment we run the Hyundai Getz or a Renault Megane. Admitedly not the most fasionable of cars, but they are great to learn in and very easy to drive.

Why should i chose your school?

There are many schools out there who charge anything from £10-£28 an hour. Simple economics tells us that an instructor cannot afford to live if he charges too little for his lessons, especially with a litre of petrol at £1.10! We charge £21 as this covers the instructors costs and allows him to do a sensible amount of lessons in a week.

If we charged less your instructor would need to do more hours, which results in a lower standard of lesson. Also, ALL our instructors have modern, safe and well maintained cars to keep you safe. They have £5 million public liability insurance to cover you if the worse happens. Many other schools do not!

How much do lessons cost?

Cheap driving lessons? Prices of lessons vary considerably. The length of lesson (the length of lesson can vary between 45 minutes and a full hour) and the area can have an effect. It’s unlikely you can get lessons for less than £18, and some schools charge up to £28. Do remember, the cheapest may not be the best. It’s worth asking - if a Driving School has cheap driving lessons, why are they so cheap? Expect to pay about £20-£24 for a good quality, full hour’s lesson. £20 for an hour is in fact very cheap when you consider the Instructor's overheads.

Are intensive driving courses any good?

Certainly they work for some people but for others an intensive driving course (or crash course) is too intense! It will depend very much on the individual. But remember it's not a short cut. You still have to learn the same amount.

Can i be picked up at college or work?

Yes you can, no problem at all.

How do I Pay?

Payment is made at the end of each lesson or in advance. Payment can be made in cash, with a cheque or online. Accounts are not allowed to go into arrears.

Testimonials:

"I am enjoying learning to drive, and you are part of that. My instructor is a fantastic, very patient, understanding and reassuring".

Miss S H, West End, Southampton

"Just wanted to send a quick an email to say thank you once again for today. I really appriciate all your help. I must admit, I was pretty worried about driving. But I've definately learnt a lot from you already, so thank you."

Josh, New Forrest.

"...Thank you for everything, your a great Instructor and it was a pleasure to learn with you!",

Clare, Southampton

Just wanted to thank you again for all the help you have given us. Your support and encouragement meant a lot to us, and my son always enjoyed his lessons with you. We are all so pleased he has passed, and are now looking for his first car, (old banger!)

Jennie, Southampton