Inspire Instructor Training Podcast

Inspire Instructor Training Podcast

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The Instructor Training Podcast is aimed at Driving Instructors and Trainee Driving Instructors wanting to improve their lessons and pass their Standards Check or Part 3. Our aim is to break it down and make it simple. 

I will be joined by some of the best trainers and Adi’s in the business along with chats with Pdi’s to gain their perspective on the process of becoming an instructor.

Phil Cowley


    • Apr 16, 2025 LATEST EPISODE
    • every other week NEW EPISODES
    • 1h AVG DURATION
    • 50 EPISODES


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    Latest episodes from Inspire Instructor Training Podcast

    What do you call blockers?

    Play Episode Listen Later Apr 16, 2025 48:56


    In our first ever live podcast (streamed on Facebook for members), we dive into practical strategies for driving instructors to take control of what they can—and thrive despite DVSA test‑booking challenges. Plus, Diana shares two “Digs Deeper” coaching moments, and we explore clever learner‑driven terminology for blockers, hazards, and reflection over perfection.0:00 – Welcome & Live Format- Introduction to the live‑recorded video cast for members - How to watch future live recordings on Facebook (membership required) 3:15 – Workshop Announcement - Date & Time: Sunday 20 July, 9:30 – ~16:30 - Location: Walsall - Cost: £120 per person, group discounts available - Focus: client‑centred learning, CPD for driving instructors7:00 – Phil's thoughts: “Control the Controllables” 1. The DVSA Waiting‑List Problem - Five‑plus‑month waits, scarcity of cancellations - Common reaction: moaning on Facebook—unhelpful 2. Taking Action for Change - Write to your MP and the DVSA (mobilise your pupils to write, too) - Drip‑feeding pressure at scale can move ministers 3. Working the System Today - Hire a test‑finder or virtual assistant and charge a small management fee - Pre‑book tests early (e.g. on theory‑pass day), then adjust as needed - Build in “re‑assessment” checkpoints two months out 4. Maximizing Learner Hours - Encourage private practice between lessons - Consider mini‑intensives if finances/time allow 5. Pricing & Service Models - Offer “test‑management” as a premium add‑on 25:00 – Diana's “Digs Deeper” Coaching Moments 1. Reframing “Blockers” → “Gap‑Makers”** - Instead of calling oncoming vehicles “blockers,” ask learners what they'd name them - Shift from negative framing (“blockers”) to positive (“gap‑makers”) 2. Perfection vs. Reflection - Encourage “reflection, not perfection” as a mantra for analysis 3. Mini‑Roundabout Design Exercise - Role‑play as the “traffic‑flow engineer” to explore pros/cons of signals vs. roundabouts - Pitch solutions to “road‑safety teams” and “road‑users” to deepen conceptual grasp - Follow up with real‑world practice, then debrief on muscle‑memory vs. theory 38:30 – Learner‑Driven Terminology - **Hazard Traffic‑Light Game:** - **Green hazards:** unlikely to affect your path - **Amber hazards:** may require slowing or manoeuvring - **Red hazards:** will definitely require action (stop, change lane) - Origin: inspired by Hazard Perception Test colour cues 42:00 – Handling Second‑Guessing on Test Day - Is doubt a sign they really “owned” the learning? - Build true understanding, not rote responses - Use controlled “wrong‑way” practice (with safety caveats) to reinforce correct choices - Wean off instructor “micro‑affirmations” (mhm/mhmm) so learners trust their own judgment -

    Add learning don't steal it.

    Play Episode Listen Later Apr 2, 2025 37:09


    Add learning don't steal it.

    Is he going to William Wallace it?

    Play Episode Listen Later Mar 12, 2025 28:03


    In this episode, we break down key teaching strategies for driving instructors, including:✅ The Concept of "Driving Independently"How it differs from test-focused "independent driving"Why letting pupils drive without constant instructor input builds confidencePractical exercises to implement this approach in lessons✅ Instructor Self-Analysis for Better TeachingBreaking down subconscious decision-making into teachable stepsBalancing structured lesson plans with pupil needsHelping struggling pupils through observation & reflection

    Drive Mobility

    Play Episode Listen Later Feb 19, 2025 45:10


    Podcast Show Notes – Episode 45: Inspire Instructor TrainingIn this episode of the Inspire Instructor Training Podcast, we dive into key topics that help driving instructors improve their teaching strategies and stay informed about industry developments. Phil's Thoughts- Don't let the pursuit of perfection hinder progress! - Learn how to focus on *practice over analysis* when teaching bay parking. - One key improvement per attempt = more effective learning. - This approach also applies to roundabouts and other driving scenarios. Drive Mobility & Instructor Survey- Jacky from Drive Mobility joins us to discuss a crucial survey on disability driver training. - There's a high demand for instructors specialising in mobility needs and older drivers. - Why do some instructors choose not to work in this sector? Let's explore the barriers. - Two surveys are available: one for ADIs involved in disability tuition and one for those who are not. - You can find the survey here, Click here if YOU ARE NOT currently offering specialist tuitionClick here if YOU ARE already offering specialist tuitionDiana Digs Deeper - A different approach to instruction—understanding why decisions are made. - Analysing roundabouts: how shape, incline, and traffic levels affect decision-making. - The balance between deep analysis and repetition-based practice. Upcoming Events

    Support

    Play Episode Listen Later Feb 9, 2025 38:48


    On this episode we discuss our new national driving school, aimed at supporting driving instructors across the country.

    Learning to Drive and Lasagne

    Play Episode Listen Later Feb 5, 2025 40:43


    Be Kind To Yourself

    Play Episode Listen Later Jan 22, 2025 41:22


    Stop Right Now

    Play Episode Listen Later Jan 8, 2025 45:18


    In this episode, Phil and Diana dive into what it really means to be an experienced driving instructor — and why it's notjust about the years you've been teaching. They explore the qualities that make a great instructor mentor, tips for achieving an A grade on your standards check, and the importance of continuous professional development (CPD) for driving instructors who want to make a lasting impact.Key topics include:

    The Auto Revolution

    Play Episode Listen Later Dec 18, 2024 39:45


    Innuendo

    Play Episode Listen Later Dec 3, 2024 32:37


    In this episode of the Inspire Instructor Training podcast, we delve into actionable strategies for driving instructors to enhance their teaching skills, develop professionally, and keep lessons engaging. With a mix of practical advice, humor, and in-depth exploration, this episode is a must-listen for instructors at all levels. Key Topics Covered: Small, Consistent Improvements- Learn about "compound learning," where daily 1% improvements lead to big gains over time. - Practical examples include better question timing, arriving early, or keeping the car spotless. Tips for Incremental Growth- Use tools like CPD trackers to monitor progress. - Build a "question bank" for better lesson engagement, focusing on manageable goals. Hilarious Lesson Anecdotes - The hosts share stories of accidental innuendos that will have you laughing out loud. Advice for Aspiring PDIs - Don't settle for subpar training—be proactive in demanding support and tailoring your development. - Suggestions include feedback-driven sessions and a buddy system for peer support. Modern Resources for PDIs - Explore a treasure trove of resources, from podcasts to Facebook groups, and how to use them wisely. Diana Digs Deeper”: Better Questioning at Junctions - Improve learner understanding with in-depth questions like “What factors are you taking into account?” - Learn how to adapt questioning to real-time situations and bridge knowledge gaps effectively.

    Menopause

    Play Episode Listen Later Nov 30, 2024 59:11


    Menopause In this episode of the Inspire Instructor Training podcast, we explore the challenges and realities of menopause and its impact on driving instructors. With insightful contributions from instructor Sarah, we discuss how this stage of life can affect professional performance and personal well-being, and share strategies to manage symptoms while fostering a supportive workplace. What You'll Learn:- The difference between menopause and perimenopause—and why it's so misunderstood. - Recognizing the diverse symptoms of perimenopause, from brain fog to fatigue. - How perimenopause uniquely impacts driving instructors. - Sarah's story: Managing brain fog, anxiety, and fatigue while staying safe on the job. - The value of open communication with students and colleagues. - Tips for lifestyle adjustments, like reducing hours and prioritizing self-care. - Why normalizing menopause discussions is crucial in the workplace. - How support groups and shared experiences can make a difference. Key Takeaway: By increasing awareness, fostering open communication, and creating supportive environments, female driving instructors can manage perimenopause more effectively and continue to thrive in their careers.

    Engine Warning Delight

    Play Episode Listen Later Nov 20, 2024 40:28


    On this episode we enjoy a great story from Kat Tompkinson and both Phil and Diana share there wisdom.

    Gales and Showers

    Play Episode Listen Later Nov 6, 2024 27:25


    We have Phil's thoughts and Diana Digs Deeper along with a great question and story from Iwan.

    Running Your Business

    Play Episode Listen Later Oct 30, 2024 79:56


    I'm joined for our first round table episode on 'Running Your Business" by Chris Benstead, Vickie Ambrose, Terry Cook and Dan Hill.We discuss all things business and leave you all with some great tips.

    Phil's a bit ranty

    Play Episode Listen Later Oct 23, 2024 50:03


    On this episode Phil gets a bit ranty about undertaking, we share our recent fails and Terry Cook shares two great stories with us.

    Don't wave at everyone

    Play Episode Listen Later Oct 9, 2024 36:20


    In this episode, you find out what me and Diana regret spending money on, why Chris Bensted shouldn't wave at everyone and why you should always ask the question.

    Book Club: Supercommunicators

    Play Episode Listen Later Sep 27, 2024 45:13


    I'm joined by The Instructor Podcast's Terry Cook to discuss our latest book Supercommunicators.

    How To Support Learners With Anxiety

    Play Episode Listen Later Aug 21, 2024 59:05


    I'm joined by Kev and Tracy Field from Confident Drivers, to discuss how we can best support our learners with anxiety.https://www.confidentdrivers.co.uk/

    How To Support Neurodiverse Learners

    Play Episode Listen Later Aug 14, 2024 64:19


    I'm joined by Dr Julia Malkin MBE to discuss how to support neurodiverse learners.You can get in touch with Dr Julia here, Email julia.mbe2011@gmail.comPhone number 07761 064694https://www.facebook.com/juliapm.co.uk

    How To Deliver A First Lesson

    Play Episode Listen Later Aug 7, 2024 64:02


    I'm joined by Bob Morton to discuss how to deliver a first lesson and how to implement coaching from day 1.You can find Bob at https://clientcentredlearning.co.uk/Also, you can find the poem Bob mentioned herehttps://www.skmurphy.com/blog/2007/02/13/kierkegaard-on-the-art-of-helping-others-to-understand/

    How To Teach Dual Carriageways and Motorways

    Play Episode Listen Later Jul 31, 2024 64:19


    I'm joined by Rob Cooling to discuss how he delivers his dual carriageway and motorway lessons.

    How To Teach Road Safety

    Play Episode Listen Later Jul 24, 2024 65:18


    In today's episode, we discuss how to deliver a road safety message to our learners. Terry has a great set of resources on his website that you should check out.https://www.theinstructorpodcast.com/vision-zero

    Book Club: Coaching Skills - A Practical Guide

    Play Episode Listen Later Jul 21, 2024 39:47


    I'm joined by Terry Cook to discuss our latest book, Coaching Skills - A Practical Guide by Christian Van Nieuwerburgh

    How To Coach

    Play Episode Listen Later Jul 17, 2024 73:57


    On this episode, we talk about als things coaching, how to coach, why we should coach and how it will benefit your lessons. I'm joined by the amazing Stewart Lochrie from Bright Coaching, you can find their details at,www.brightcoaching.net

    How To Teach Theory

    Play Episode Listen Later Jul 10, 2024 71:05


    I'm joined by Chris Bensted of Theory Test Explained and we talk about all things theory and how you can help your pupils.You can find Chris at https://www.theorytestexplained.co.uk/Link to game Chris mentionshttps://amzn.to/3RQtBfZ

    How to teach reversing

    Play Episode Listen Later Jul 3, 2024 70:29


    In this episode, I'm joined by the incredible Emma Cottington to delve into the art of teaching reversing. We explore various techniques, highlighting the ones we find most effective and those we prefer to avoid. Tune in to discover practical tips and innovative ideas to elevate your reversing lessons.You can find all things Emma at linktr.ee/emmacottington1

    How To Use Games On Lessons

    Play Episode Listen Later Jun 26, 2024 61:34


    Today's episode is all about games. How to implement them, the benefits and different types. I'm joined by the other half of Inspire Instructor Training Diana Todd. If you've enjoyed today's episode we have a game course within our membership package. head over to www.inspireinstructortraining.com for more details.

    How To Teach Roundabouts

    Play Episode Listen Later Jun 19, 2024 73:27


    I'm joined by the ADI and PDI Doctor Lee Spary and we discuss how we teach roundabouts.

    Was the pupil encouraged to reflect on their own performance?

    Play Episode Listen Later Apr 24, 2024 52:32


    On this episode with Tom Stenson we discuss Managing Customers and 'At the end of the session – was the pupil encouraged to reflect on their own performance?'

    Did the trainer maintain an appropriate non-discriminatory manner throughout the session? With San Harper

    Play Episode Listen Later Apr 17, 2024 61:38


    Did the trainer maintain an appropriate non-discriminatory manner throughout the session? With San Harper

    Were the pupil's queries followed up and answered?

    Play Episode Listen Later Apr 10, 2024 64:23


    On this episode, we talk to Becky Seaton about her journey and we discuss 'Were the pupil's queries followed up and answered?'

    Was the pupil given appropriate and timely feedback during session?

    Play Episode Listen Later Mar 27, 2024 82:31


    On today's episode I chat to Fiona Taylor about 'Was the pupil given appropriate and timely feedback during session?' We also discuss scaling and the teaching aids Fiona supplies.You can find these at www. fionadrive.com

    timely pupil fiona taylor
    Technical Information with Emma Cottington

    Play Episode Listen Later Mar 20, 2024 82:28


    On today's episode, I talked to the amazing Emma Cottington about mental health and our competence this week was all about technical information.

    Graham's Story and Challenges

    Play Episode Listen Later Mar 13, 2024 60:20


    Graham shares his journey with us from how he struggled with alcohol to being diagnosed with Autism as an adult.

    Were opportunities and examples used to clarify learning outcomes?

    Play Episode Listen Later Mar 6, 2024 83:11


    On today's episode we discuss reference points and should driving instructors use them. We dig into our next competency, 'Were opportunities and examples used to clarify learning outcomes?'.I'm joined by Kevin Sellwood from the ExeL Podcast, who shares his knowledge with us.

    Was the pupil encouraged to analyse problems and take responsibility for their learning?

    Play Episode Listen Later Feb 28, 2024 66:19


    On today's episode of Inspire Instructor Training Podcast with Kev Field we discuss test ready, and our competency is ‘Was the pupil encouraged to analyse problems and take responsibility for their learning?'You can Kev at www.confidentdrivers.co.uk

    Was the teaching style suited to the pupil's learning style and current ability?

    Play Episode Listen Later Feb 21, 2024 63:20


    On today's episode of Inspire Instructor Training Podcast with Andrew Love we discuss road safety, and our competency is ‘Was the teaching style suited to the pupil's learning style and current ability?'You can Andrew at www.lidiaondemand.co.uk

    Carl's Journey To Becoming A Driving Instructor

    Play Episode Listen Later Feb 14, 2024 66:15


    On today's episode of Inspire Instructor Training Podcast with Carl Cooper Barlow we discuss Carls journey to becoming an instructor.

    Was sufficient feedback given to help the pupil understand any potential safety critical incidents?

    Play Episode Listen Later Feb 14, 2024 60:30


    On today's episode of Inspire Instructor Training Podcast with Diana Todd we discuss intensive courses, and our competency is ‘Was sufficient feedback given to help the pupil understand any potential safety critical incidents?'You can find both myself and Diana at www.inspireinstructortraining.com

    Were directions and instructions given to the pupil clear and given in good time?

    Play Episode Listen Later Dec 27, 2023 69:43


    So what have I got in store for you today? Today I'll be chatting to Terry Leftery, Terry has years of experience and he shares his take on the industry and coaching.We discuss, Was any verbal or physical intervention by the trainer timely and appropriate? And our final section of the national standards for driver and rider training which is all about role play. You can find Terry on Facebook just send him a message

    Was the trainer aware of the surroundings and the pupils actions?

    Play Episode Listen Later Dec 20, 2023 94:17


    On today's episode we are joined by Mick Knowle and Lee Jowett from Knowledgablee Instructor Training, we discuss competence 7 from the ADI Part 3 and Standards Check 'Was the trainer aware of the surroundings and the pupils actions?'We also dig into the GDE Matrix and why it's so important that we talk about and use it in our lessons.You can find the KIT guys at https://www.adikit.co.uk

    Were directions and instructions given to the pupil clear and given in good time?

    Play Episode Listen Later Dec 13, 2023 97:25


    In today's episode, we talk to Lee Spary from ADI Doctor or PDI Doctor. We discuss 'Were directions and instructions given to the pupil clear and given in good time?'and 'Unit 5 - Evaluate and develop your knowledge, understanding and skills in the driver/rider training industry'To find out more about Lee visit,Adidoctor.co.ukPdidoctor.co.uk

    Did the trainer ensure that the pupil fully understood how the responsibility for risk would be shared?

    Play Episode Listen Later Dec 6, 2023 84:55


    In today's episode, we talk all things risk management with Ray Seagrave.You can find Ray at,Facebook pagehttps://www.facebook.com/trainingfordrivinginstructorsInfo on courses https://rayseagraveaditraining.setmore.comDriving Instructors Development Toolkit Facebook group. https://www.facebook.com/groups/555542521821729/?ref=share_group_link

    Was the lesson plan adapted, when appropriate, to help the pupil work towards their learning goals?

    Play Episode Listen Later Nov 29, 2023 97:38


    On this with episode with Chris Bentsted, we discuss an array of topics and it's all gold with some amazing takeaways.To find Chris visit https://theditc.co.uk/ or http://www.chrisbensted.co.uk/

    The Podmaster

    Play Episode Listen Later Nov 22, 2023 74:41


    In this episode with Terry Cook we talk all things CPD. If you enjoyed this go and listen to Terry's amazing podcast at https://www.theinstructorpodcast.com/

    cpd terry cook podmaster
    Were the practice areas suitable?

    Play Episode Listen Later Nov 15, 2023 95:15


    In this episode, I talk to the amazing Bob Morton. We discuss all things driving instructing. If you would like to find out more about Bob visit,https://clientcentredlearning.co.ukGet in touch with me at,https://theinstructortrainer.com

    Was the agreed lesson structure appropriate for the pupil's experience and ability?

    Play Episode Listen Later Nov 8, 2023 86:54


    On this episode, we discuss all things Stewart including his brand new course and his work with The Honest Truth. We dig into the second competency, 'Was the agreed lesson structure appropriate for the pupil's experience and ability?'Also we talk thought Unit 1 from the National Standards for Driver and Rider Training.Some helpful links from today's podcasthttps://theinstructortrainer.com/https://www.brightcoaching.net/https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/national-standard-for-driver-and-rider-traininghttps://assets.publishing.service.gov.uk/government/uploads/system/uploads/attachment_data/file/1116988/carrying-out-driving-instructor-tests-and-checks-adi1.pdf

    From Norway to 'I found a way'

    Play Episode Listen Later Nov 1, 2023 42:21


    On today's episode, we discuss Emma Brückner Fonnaland journey to becoming an ADI. We talk about her challenges, how she overcame them and what she's got planned next.

    Did the trainer identify the learner's goals and needs?

    Play Episode Listen Later Nov 1, 2023 80:23


    On today's we are joined by Diana Todd and Deucalion Mcgregor-Sims. We discuss how they became driving instructors, and what they have to offer now. We also dig into the first competency for the Part 3 and Standards Check 'Did the trainer identify the learner's goals and needs?'You can find Diana and Deucalion at,http://toddsdrivertraining.co.ukhttps://www.1-drive.co.uk/All 3 of us can be found as admin and support at https://www.facebook.com/groups/LousPDIgroupIf you have any questions for me or would like 1-2-1 training then visit,https://theinstructortrainer.com/

    Trailer

    Play Episode Listen Later Oct 10, 2023 1:11


    A brand-new podcast aimed at helping ADI's and Pdi's with the standards. Check and part three test. We will be chatting with industry leaders along with ADI's and PDIs learning about their stories.Don't forget to subscribe, so you never miss an episode.

    pdi pdis

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