Eastbourne driving instructor finds new way to teach pupils in lockdown

At this challenging time, there are many people who have had to put their driving lessons on hold.

So Colin Goodsell, of Ministry of Driving, has found a way to still keep momentum with his pupils – by offering online, structured, driving lessons, with theory and practical driving advice.

He said, “As of March 22 I put my business into hibernation as teaching pupils to drive.

“Wanting to help and assist my students during the lockdown, I knew I had to review my teaching approach.

“Physical side-by-side driving lessons obviously not an option so I have now replaced these with face-to-face online driving lessons.”

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Colin said, “For students preparing for the practical test, I put together practical driving advice and guidance using real-time, instructor created ‘driver perspective’ videos.

“I’ve tailored these towards the individual requirements of each student and/or localised road features. This is then discussed online with myself and the student.”

Pupils are encouraged to take part in the lesson, giving their thoughts about a situation or road layout.

They are then challenged to think about when and whether they would check their mirrors, timing of applying signals, and what speed or gear they might need to be in.

Colin said, “By using this method, I can assist a new driver without any previous driving experience or knowledge of car control to drive for the first time.

“I feel this online support at this time will get the students even more prepared and give them more confidence and knowledge for when they start in car lessons compared to a new pupil without these on line lessons.

“This teaching method can shorten the number of practical driving lessons that will be needed before being test ready. I have been offering this service free to my current students as I am focused on giving them quality coaching even when we can’t physically drive together.”

Colin is also offering quality assistance and guidance with preparing for the DVSA theory test.

Highway code books are now replaced with state-of-the-art computer-based study aids. Sheets of paper are replaced with interactive on-screen artwork and a question bank of more than 900 Theory test questions.

The hazard perception test is also a difficult part of the Theory test and Colin is able to assist his pupils and get improved results.

Where previously pupils were not obtaining the required results, they are now exceeding the required standard, he says.

For more information visit www.ministrydriving.com