More than 280 ADIs recently gathered for the industry’s ‘first national convention’, which has been described as ‘setting the precedent for a new era of professionalism’.
The concept for The Driving Instructor Convention came from the productive relationship between Intelligent Instructor and the ADINJC.
Tom Stenson, head of training at the ADINJC, opened proceedings by treating delegates to the power of the ‘F’ word – ‘Feedback’. He described it as an essential skill to master as a trainer and teacher.
Meanwhile, Stewart Lochrie delved deep into the psychology of the teenage brain in a ‘highly thought-provoking presentation’, drawing on and referencing other speakers who had participated in the day.
Tommy Sandhu, ‘just an average guy from an average town in the Midlands,’ shared his knowledge on how to build a successful business and a multi-car, award-winning franchise.
Dr Elizabeth Box discussed the importance of encouraging a move away from fear-based presentations – replacing them with evidence-led programmes, as highlighted by the DriveFit study.
Following this, Ian Edwards shed light on how young drivers are more impulsive than other road users.
Road safety, an essential area of our work as driver trainers, was the focus of Olly Tayler’s time in the spotlight. He encouraged instructors to carry the torch as road safety educators by using structured programmes such as The Honest Truth.
In the afternoon, ADINJC’s president, Lynne Barrie, discussed how to better understand oneself as an instructor. This is essential if you are to deliver teaching of the highest quality.
Highly respected and award-winning ADI, Ray Seagrave, outlined how to master advanced in-car coaching techniques. While stepping outside of the car, Alisha Khan from Driving Test Success shared her formula for amassing over one million social media followers.
The day concluded with the inspirational Meera Naran MBE. She shared her experience of not one, not two, but three life-changing tragic moments. These inspired her to work for the greater good of road safety around the ongoing issue of smart motorways.
The organisers believe they have ‘raised the bar’ for the industry, describing it as ‘a premier-style event’, and one that is ‘here to stay’.
Pencilled in already is a Driving Instructor Convention in the spring of 2025.
Before that is the free-to-attend ADINJC & Intelligent Instructor National Conference & Expo, taking place at Newark showground on 29 September.
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