Horizon School of Motoring

Enable as much private practice as possible. Everyone has heard the expression ‘practice makes perfect’! Getting practice in real life situations will not only increase skills and confidence for the test, but getting practice at different times of day, in different locations, and in different weather conditions, will prepare them for their driving life after they pass. However, DO NOT try to change anything your learner has been taught by their instructor without discussing it with the instructor first, however much you disagree with it. The instructor is a professional trainer and will be more up to date with current methods than you.

Finally, make sure you’re legal. Remember, whoever is supervising the learner must have held a UK Driving Licence for at least three years and be aged 21 years or more. Whether they’re driving their own car or will be using your car for driving practice, they will need insurance cover, and this doesn’t have to mean adding them as a named driver on your existing policy. The great news is that there are a range of options available to insure them in either their own car or yours. Click on Marmalade below for more details. Please also remember using your phone while supervising is illegal.

Advice for accompanying drivers outside of formal lessons

The DVSA recommends that learner drivers get as much private practice as possible. Here are some top tips for parents/partners who are brave enough to help. This Kindle book is also available to help and well worth a read. It is also available in paperback.

Swot up on the Highway Code. It’s likely to have been a while since you last read it, so brushing up will be a good reminder of the rules of the road to you as well and you’ll be ready for questions when out driving and you may be surprised at how much has changed since you passed your driving test!

Set a good example. From a young age, children mimic the actions of their parents. Driving is no different - by being a ‘model driver’ when they are in the car with you, you will be encouraging good habits. Talk them through what you’re doing in different situations, as well as exaggerating mirror - signal - manoeuvre. If you have bad habits, rest assured they'll pick them up as well.

Back to Pupils Area main page