Stourbridge is a town in the West Midlands region of England, located near the River Stour. The town has a rich history and is known for its glass-making industry, which dates back to the 17th century. Aside from that, Stourbridge also has a well-developed road network that connects it to other towns and cities in the region.
Stourbridge also has several smaller roads that connect its various neighbourhoods and suburbs. Residents often use these roads to provide access to shops, schools, and other amenities. For this reason, learning to drive is essential, meaning one must find a qualified driving instructor to teach them the skills and knowledge needed to navigate these roads safely. Finding a driving instructor in Stourbridge is relatively easy, as many driving schools and independent instructors operate there. However, you must choose an experienced instructor with a good reputation.
To ensure that you find a suitable driving instructor, you must look at the following:
#1 – Qualifications
Before taking driving lessons, a beginner driver to ensure that their instructor or driving school has the necessary professional qualifications. Specifically, they should look for the ADI (Approved Driving Instructor) certificate issued by the DSA (Driving Standards Agency), a green badge displayed on the instructor’s car windshield. It’s recommended to confirm with the instructor that they possess this badge before paying for any lessons.
Moreover, the instructor should have a valid and up-to-date driving instructor’s license, a valid first aid certificate, and a valid DBS (Disclosure and Barring Service) check.
#2 – Intensive Driving Courses
An intensive or crash course is a different approach to learning driving skills and techniques to pass driving exams. It involves an accelerated learning process where learners receive intensive tuition over a short period, typically 7 to 10 days. This option is usually taken by people who want to pass their driving exams quickly due to employment reasons or other pressing needs. The course includes 8-10 hours of daily studying and practical experience.
#3 – Cost
The cost of driving lessons and courses can vary depending on the location, driving school, and type of course. On average, the price of a driving lesson can range from £20 to £30 per hour. On the other hand, an intensive driving course can vary from £300 to £1000, depending on the course’s duration and intensity. Researching and comparing prices from different driving schools is crucial to find the best value for your money.
It’s also a good idea to inquire about any discounts or promotions they may offer. Many instructors provide a discount for booking a block of 10 or more lessons, which could save you up to 20% of the total cost. Other popular discounts include the first lesson for free, referral discounts for friends or family, and discounted rates for 2-hour lessons.
#4 – Family and Friends Tuition
While less commonly practised than other methods, family and friends can also teach someone how to drive a car. This option is less stressful for the learner as they are with people they are familiar with and may not have to pay for lessons. However, it’s not recommended as the learner may develop poor driving habits from those close to them.
What to Expect during Your Driving Lessons
A qualified and licensed driving instructor conducts driving lessons. The lessons usually last about an hour, and the instructor will assess the learner’s driving skills and knowledge of road rules and regulations. They will then work with the learner to improve their skills and help them pass their driving test.
During the lessons, the learner will be taught various driving techniques, such as changing gears, braking safely, and navigating different road conditions. They will also learn about road signs and markings and how to handle traffic situations.
As the learner progresses, the instructor will gradually introduce more complex driving scenarios, such as driving in heavy traffic or on motorways. The lessons aim to help the learner become a safe and confident driver, capable of passing their driving test and driving independently.
Conclusion
Finding a driving instructor is relatively straightforward, but you must choose one who is knowledgeable, patient, and can tailor their teaching style to the learner’s needs. Regular practice and dedication are vital to becoming a competent driver, and taking professional lessons can help accelerate the learning process. By following the guidance and advice of an experienced instructor, learners can develop the skills and confidence needed to navigate the roads safely and responsibly.
If you’re looking for driving schools in Slough, ENA Driving School is for you! We offer comprehensive driving courses for manual and automatic vehicles for affordable prices. Call us today at 07719160827 to sign up!