Stu's Quick Q&A
Why did you become a driving instructor?
Growing up with a dad as a driving instructor I always wanted to follow in his footsteps. One of my earliest memories is sitting in his 1990’s Ford Escort pretending to drive and giving lessons. It’s a rewarding career and something I love doing.
What’s the best part of your job?
My favourite part of being an instructor is always meeting new pupils and watching them learn a new skill and the joy they have when they pass. Driving instructor training tops this a little as you see someone develop into a brand new career and change their life for the better.
What’s the worst part of your job?
Cancellations and temper tantrums! Both are completely avoidable.
Favourite lesson to teach?
It has to be the first lesson, it’s great watching a new pupil grasp a new skill and start relaxing.
Your favourite area for teaching in?
I currently offer lessons across South Liverpool (Speke, Hunts cross, Halewood, Garston, Gatacre, Woolton, Hale village) but I work across the North-West training instructors, I love a change of scenery and it’s great being able to float around and see different areas.
What did you do before you became an instructor?
I always knew I would end up as an instructor so at the age of 16 I started working in a warehouse before joining the warehouse refurbishment team. I progressed onto being a security guard and a taxi driver before training to become an instructor as soon as I could, I now primarily focus on training driving instructors but work 3 days a week with learner drivers.
Why did you choose an Taigo to teach in?
I’ve used a range of cars, 2 x Fiesta’s, 2 x Astra’s, BMW 1 series, Fiat Punto, Citroen C3, Qashqai, Audi A3. All great cars but I have always wanted something a little special. The thing I love about the Taigo is the size, it’s a big car whilst being easy for learners to drive. It also reminds me of my dads AA driving school polo back in 1995!
How old were you when you passed your driving test and how many attempts?
17 and first time, the perks of having a dad as a driving instructor!
What’s your dream car?
I like a variety of cars, but I do like to tinker with modified & modern classic cars. Apart from my work car I also have a heavily modified Fiesta (Full St150 conversion, uprated brakes, suspension, full exhaust, fibre-glass bodykit, coilovers on 17" Rial alloys) - it actually used to be one of our driving school cars! In late 2021 I also bought one of my other dream cars, a 1998 Rover 114 GSI. I can appreciate most cars but I’d rather own cars with some sort of sentimental attachment or a great story to tell - the Rover 114 is the car I grew up with when my dad (Peter) qualified as a driving instructor and worked for the AA driving school before opening TDA.
If you could tell yourself anything when you were learning to drive, what would it be?
Focus, Plan and always be prepared
When you’re not in the car where can we find you?
Spending time with my family, having catchup’s in Costa with the instructors or at home!
Favourite food?
You really can’t beat a good Indian!
Sports fan?
Sport?!
Claim to fame?
I once ran over Charlotte Church’s foot in the airport with my suitcase (I was 13!)
Favourite band/music?
A little hip hop / r&b or some dance music is normally not far away but I appreciate a good band!
