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Thinking of becoming a driving instructor? Here's why I did it.
I joined the AA Driving School 10 years ago, after training and qualifying as an Approved Driving Instructor with BSM. I started out in working life as a Photographer in the Royal Air Force followed by a further 25 years of Sales and Marketing in the Music Industry. A life changing event prompted a move from London to Cheltenham and a complete change of career to become an Approved Driving Instructor. Something I should have done years ago because I discovered only recently that I love teaching. And if that's you too, this is a most rewarding career. You only have to see my pupils on this website proudly showing off their Driving Test pass certificates to realise just one of the many rewarding aspects of this job.
Why The AA?
To the best of my knowledge, most driving instructors in the UK are self employed - as independent driving schools or franchise operators like myself. There's no reason why you shouldn't go independent when you qualify, but I made the decision to run an AA Driving School franchise mainly because of the power of the brand. Put it this way, The AA is a rather bigger name than mine. I like the way The AA creates opportunities and is acknowledged nationally.
You could also benefit, like me from the tremendous support you receive from the AA Driving School. I regularly attend training workshops and business seminars conducted by The AA. I think it's most reassuring to know that you are consistently receiving the best continuous professional development available. It's also good to know that your Ford tuition car is regularly maintained and should anything go wrong, is sorted out immediately. That's great peace of mind for you and for your pupils.
What's involved?
Let's get straight to the point. You should consider investing in the region of £3,000 to pass all three ADI exams. The AA Driving School training course will cost around £2,500, but you must consider fees for your exams plus possible additional training material and support. Meeting the standard required to pass each of the three Driving Standards Agency ADI exams will require a good deal of hard work. As you'll discover, learning how to teach people to drive will require much patience, humour and determination to succeed.
It takes most trainees from 6 to 18 months to complete an AA Driving School ADI training course. Leading Awarding Organisation EDI has reviewed the aims and content of the training and confirmed that the standard required is consistent with a NVQ level 3. To join any ADI course you need to be over 21, and have held a valid driving licence for at least 3½ years. And you'll also need to be able to read a number plate from 90 feet / 27.5 metres.
Can I join the AA Driving School after I have qualified?
Once you've passed, you'll get priority treatment if you wish to apply for an AA Driving School franchise. Your new business will start immediately, with the support of the AA that I mentioned earlier. As a reasonably busy instructor working five days a week, you can reckon to earn around £25,000 per year in an area like the South West where I'm based. Other parts of the UK will vary. If you're prepared to work enough hours, it is possible to earn the big figures advertised on TV in recent years. But I believe it's important for your own well-being to enjoy good time off with family and friends.
Still interested? Phone me on 07810 55216.
