Qualifications mark the beginning, not the end, of a trainer’s journey. True expertise in Down-Training other instructors comes from a blend of experience and skill, not just certification.
Our focus is on cultivating this deeper understanding and ability, ensuring that each trainer we develop is not just on the road to qualification, but genuinely prepared to shape the next generation of riders.
Learn MorePatience is key in nurturing new instructors. Rushing them into training novice riders can lead to substandard outcomes and heightened stress and risk for both the instructor and learners.
This hurried approach creates a stark contrast in the quality of training delivered by well-prepared, methodically Down-Trained instructors versus those fast-tracked into the role.
Our ethos is to avoid this pitfall by ensuring every instructor is given the time and training necessary to truly excel. They must be ready and confident to guide learner riders through the initial process.
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The challenge of Down-Training is not suited to every instructor. Despite a two-day DVSA Assessment qualifying instructors to train others, it doesn’t equip them with the necessary teaching skills to train the trainer.
When inexperienced trainers are tasked with educating new instructors, the quality of training inevitably suffers, potentially leading to risks for customers.
We advocate for a more discerning approach, ensuring that only those with the right experience and teaching capabilities undertake the crucial role of training new instructors.
Book a Practical Training courseTraining new instructors demands a distinct skill set, separate from that used in teaching learner riders. Recognising and honing these specialised skills is crucial for effective Down Training.
We focus on developing these unique abilities, ensuring trainers are not just proficient in rider training but are also adept at shaping skilled instructors.
The existing training methodology is outdated and insufficient.
Anticipated changes at DVSA level are set to redefine qualification criteria and guidelines for Down Training instructors, signalling a much-needed shift in the process.
Effective training of new instructors goes beyond mere observation. A detailed, dedicated training program is essential before they begin teaching.
We emphasise thorough and structured training plans to ensure instructors are fully prepared to teach.
Maintaining detailed records of instructor training, like case studies and portfolios, is crucial.
These documents serve as tangible evidence of the training process, highlighting areas for improvement and ensuring all new instructors are fully equipped before they begin training learner riders.
The DVSA’s two-day assessment is notorious for its low pass rates, often due to candidates being underprepared and lacking essential skills.
Adequate preparation is key to overcoming the challenges of being successful in the assessment.
Simply attending the assessment is not enough. ATBs must ensure their staff are thoroughly prepared for the DVSA assessment.
Relying on chance or treating it as a mere experience is ineffective and wastes valuable time for everyone involved.
The DVSA’s critique of industry standards often stems from encountering inadequately prepared instructors.
To elevate these standards, instructors must be meticulously prepared, equipped with comprehensive notes, Lesson Plans and Training Diagrams. Arriving with a blank notebook is far from sufficient for effective training delivery.