I stand today, proud and relieved, with an A4 piece of paper (Driving certificate). This piece of paper confirms in writing that I have indeed passed my Driving Test.
My story is that I have always w... Read More
I stand today, proud and relieved, with an A4 piece of paper (Driving certificate). This piece of paper confirms in writing that I have indeed passed my Driving Test.
My story is that I have always wanted to drive since a young age. Due to educational commitments, cost and free time this wasn’t possible.
However, recently I was put under enormous pressure by my current employers to gain my license due to a contract change and I was given an ultimatum to get my license or lose my job!
This pressure, along with the fact I was unconfident and anxious behind the wheel of a car made me a teacher who was ironically, hard to teach.
Now the adrenaline and anxiety has now lifted from my body, having passed. I can confidently say that this achievement was down to one man’s support and commitment, Andy.
Andy, took me on as his own Driving pupil after I completed an intensive course at 5-DAY, where under his guidance I successfully achieved 58/60 on my theory due to his engaging theory lessons.
However, I knew after my week at 5-DAY, I was far from ready to take my practical test. With fear and anxiety taking hold of me and hindering my ability to operate a vehicle with the control and confidence needed.
Interestingly, I could study and complete the theory, but the practical task of driving was a daunting and difficult struggle for me as I would typically over-think driving manoeuvres and positioning.
Over the last 6 months, Andy, has been an incredibly positive and constructive source of support who has pushed me to conquer my fears and demons from the immense pressure I was under. Having been under his tuition for some time, I have got to know him as a friendly and supportive individual who couldn’t do enough to help me.
I love my current job and was determined to get my license. I am so pleased to report I have kept my role due to Andy.
Andy, went above and beyond his paid role to support me with free lessons, Mentoring sessions, access to his own vehicle along with tuition and the opportunity to drive other Instructors’ vehicles.
Andy, was able to adapt his Instructor approach at a steady pace for me to build the confidence and knowledge needed to become a driver. My journey to holding this Certificate has been a long road for me, having just passed on my 4th occasion. Despite this, the relief, elation and pride I feel now is due down to Andy’s persistence, dedication, encouragement and commitment to his pupil and it all feels more than worthwhile.
The old ‘Tim’ was plagued with nerves and suffering from self-doubt on several occasions in my journey, but Andy was able to make me see that the ‘dreaded Driving Test’ was not a ‘test’ but a positive opportunity for me to show off my driving skills to any examiner.
There’s an old saying in Education that you never forget a brilliant teacher. Well, I will never forget Andy and what he has done for me. This license will be life-changing for me personally but also professionally.
Having taught myself, I see him as an educator of the highest ability rather than a typical Driving Instructor. Like all good Educators, he set high standards as a perfectionist but had the differentiation to set goals and enable me to break through the mental barriers I had with a strong understanding of the pressure I was under. His sayings, explanations and teachings will stay as a strong voice in my head as I look forward to my future as a qualified driver as they did in my Driving Test.
Any one reading this who is struggling with getting their license, nerves around their test or is generally having a difficult time behind the wheel… I offer two pieces of advice…
1. Never give up! Stick with it. You can do it! Driving is an opportunity not a choir!
2. I highly recommend a solution. His name is Andy Dodd from Norwich, 5-DAY.
Andy, I cannot thank you enough! We did it!
Thank you!
Tim Read Less