Customers come on to our intensive courses from different starting points. Some might have done some driving practise before, while others have never sat in the driver’s seat previously. There is flexibility with these BIG TOM courses because they are not of a fixed length – the length can be aligned to anyone’s particular needs.
As the competence levels of customers differ, it is logical that what is included in any particular course will also differ. At the root of all driving training provided is the DVSA Driving Standard that details all the skills needed to be a safe and competent driver. Any customer can be assured that the scope of the training will be very much aligned to what they NEED to be working on. These courses are extremely efficient, so there is little time for aimlessly driving around with no particular goals being worked on.
Broadly speaking, the training will aim to help a pupil be competent at driving in built-up areas, country roads, faster-moving roads and manoeuvres. The only difference with a BIG TOM intensive compared to a shorter pay as you go driving lesson, is that our pupils get the opportunity to experience a variety of more diverse driving conditions because they can go further afield as the sessions are longer (4+ hours). Although the sessions are longer, comfort and enjoyment are paramount in mind to ensure the training environment is managed. Not only will this maximise the learning potential, but it also keeps the training safe.
So, in conclusion, our courses are not “crash courses”, there are no corners being cut here, because the training programmes are tailored to the needs of the pupil. We do ask for complete transparency of any previous experience when booking up a course, because the accuracy of the information provided from a customer, will determine the length of course, and that will affect outcomes if it turns out to be incorrect for the needs. For example, if an over-confident pupil with little previous experience incorrectly books up a course that is far too short for their actual needs, this will clearly affect the outcomes because all of the skills listed in the Driving Standard will have not been met to the required standard. We do not compromise on driving standards just because a customer has over-assessed their actual driving ability.
The attraction of intensive courses is large. There is an opportunity to significantly reduce the overall length of time (period) that is taken to get to the required standard. But do bear in mind, that this accelerated way of learning is not for everyone. Some people prefer the pay as you go driving lessons which is why we have always provided both options to our customers. It is effortful to learn to drive, it takes a certain type of person to be able to absorb information, and practice driving. As such, if you are uncertain as to whether the intensive option is right for you, start off on the pay as you go lessons. You will fairly quickly start to realise if you are wanting more from your sessions.
