I get asked this question a lot. The answer is simple. As soon as you can and the reason for this is so the trainee gets the best possible start and adopts good habits from the beginning.
Each trainee is different, and I have found that there is not a requirement for a set model for the number of training sessions. Some take 6 sessions while others may require more. One thing I have observed is this. If a trainee comes to me with a bad habit they have picked up and had a chance to practice it. that habit becomes very hard to break.
One example of this is “palm steering: Another is not signalling off a roundabout.
In most cases the trainee is modelling the behaviour of the driver who does most of the supervising while they build up their hours.
So, lets see if we can shed some light on this issue.
Engage my services as soon as the new driver in the family gets their Learners Certificate. I will train the basics. Things like mirror checks, vehicle approach and position, braking, turn sequences, to name just a few. These require a lot of practice, and they must be done correctly to pass the test.
One of the things I really like to happen is for the parent or guardian to accompany the trainee on the first couple of occasions so that they are on the same page too. To help with this I conduct a “commentary drive”. This is where I drive and as I drive, I explain each sequence I perform as I drive. Folks find this very useful and often leave the car much better informed of what is expected of the trainee. Often, they will comment that they have learnt something.
The other question I am asked is how often the training sessions should take place. This will depend on how long before they can take the test and what the budget will stand. I will give a few examples of what people have done.
Example 1
The trainee has just obtained the Learners. My services are engaged straight away, and 5 or 6 training sessions are booked in. The trainee then has a break for a few months while they build hours. They then return for a “final polish up” of their driving skill set and are trained to do the two parking manoeuvres. Then a test date is set.
Example 2
Book a session once a month for the first six or so months. Then book in more frequently as the completion of the 12-month period nears its completion date.
I am flexible in terms of training and am more than happy to discuss this.
Lastly please remember that the logbook method of training will be phased out in the next few years if DTI sticks to its plan. The only way to obtain a licence will be after passing a Vehicle on Road Test ( VORT ).
