So you passed Part3 and are now about to meet your first real pupil.

Don’t panic! Just relax, it is not a test, and your pupil is no expert. They will not be judging you and will have no idea if you are doing things the right or wrong way. Remember your training, plan the lesson well, and there is no reason it cannot be a success in getting your new career off to a great start.

Route planning plays an important part in any driving lesson.

It should always match both your pupils’ ability and allow for the aims of the lesson to be achieved. If you are not familiar with the area, you should visit it beforehand to plan. With time, you will get to know different areas well and develop training routes you can use.

Often, I read on Facebook, other social media, and many forums that part 3 is nothing like teaching real learners. You too may have read the same, and this will no doubt be worrying you about that first lesson in the real world. The truth is, all your training will have given you the skills and techniques you need in the car. The Part 3 test is designed to test those skills, as well as your subject knowledge, and you have passed that, so dealing with a learner should be a breeze!

However, take a few minutes to think about the pupil you are about to meet and how nervous or excited they will be. Sitting behind the wheel of a car with very little knowledge of what to do will be scary, and on top of that, they are going to meet a stranger, you! This first lesson is not just a controls lesson; it is your chance to build a rapport with your pupil, break the ice and leave them wanting to come back for more at the end.

A driving instructor’s diary relies on recommendations, so you want every learner to be singing your praises. That is not going to happen if they fail to enjoy the lesson or go away feeling dejected because nothing seemed to go right. Perhaps the most important skill set you have learnt is those Core competences, but be warned, don’t get that interrogation lamp out and start picking on everything your pupil does wrong. Some of which may well be down to your instruction and those emotions your anxious pupil may be experiencing.

Cut them some slack!

Keep them safe and let them find their feet, going home with a smile and a sense of achievement. Confidence will grow, and they will soon be telling their friends what a great instructor they have. Your business is off to a fantastic start, and the diary can start to fill.

Till the next time.

Chris Deane ADI