Phil Hirst
My Training Philosophy
I have always sought the best training available to enhance my skills as both a driving instructor and educator. My focus has always been on learning from experts and colleagues to enhance my knowledge, skills, and understanding, rather than simply collecting qualifications and certificates.
The Importance of Quality Training
Staying up-todate with the latest developments in teaching and maintaining high standards is essential. Since the introduction of the Standards Check in 2014, driving instructors are required to adopt a client-centred approach, rather than an instructor-led one. Effective teaching, risk management, and student engagement foster drivers who are more responsible, self-aware, and safer on the roads.
Investing in Value for Money
Regular training to enhance skills, efficiency, and profitability is an investment rather than an expense. While the financial benefits may not always be immediately apparent, the confidence and motivation gained are invaluable. Moreover, the connections made through training can provide useful contacts in the future. I am committed to providing training that is good value, which means understanding my clients’ goals and helping them achieve them.
A Proven Track Record
Over my 30 years of teaching and training, I have learned that every student is unique, with their own fears, strengths, and eagerness to learn. Having trained over 800 potential instructors for the ADI Register and more than 300 ADIs to become trainers, I believe that learning never truly ends. I am pleased to say that many of my clients share this philosophy of lifelong learning, often returning for further training.
The Importance of Feedback
We generally teach in isolation, receiving limited direct feedback on our teaching abilities. For most instructors, formal feedback is only obtained from the DVSA during periodic Standards Checks. In the meantime, we may mistakenly believe we are doing well if our students seem satisfied, stay with us, and eventually pass their tests. However, unchecked, our standards may slip, only becoming evident when an examiner finds fault.
My Responsibilities
Helping instructors prepare for their DVSA assessments is the most crucial aspect of my work, enabling them to teach effectively and maintain their careers. My other roles include:
- Assisting the public in passing their ADI qualifying exams (Parts 1, 2, and 3)
- Teaching ADIs how to train new instructors to expand their earnings and grow their schools
- Preparing ADI trainers for ORDIT inspections
- Offering remedial training for ADIs and PDIs who have not passed a Standards Check
- Delivering tailored, classroom-based courses for ADI groups
- Authoring training workbooks and materials
- Creating online training content for clients
- Retired Chair of the Harrogate Association of Approved Driving Instructors
- Retired NDORS trainer (NSAC and NMAC)
- Major Retired British Armed Forces
