The Student Room Group

driving advice

I turned 17 in December and I want to start driving lessons. My mum thinks I should do a five day intensive course, is that a good idea for first time drivers ? Also, should I do my theory before driving lessons or after them ?
In my opinion, no. Not that i've done one myself....but IMO the time between lessons is almost as important as the lessons themselves to let things sink in and think them over. Most have bad lessons/moments...I'd rather get that over with in one slot, then go away and calm down/get my confidence back, than know i was out for the whole day. Past a point in the week you'll likely stop effectively learning through fatigue or just getting annoyed and it'll still cost £25 odd an hour.

Taking normal lessons means you can determine and focus on particular areas of driving...lesson formats can be changed, you can take more/less or even change instructor if it's not working out, but taking a 5 day course you're committed to paying that full whack no matter what.

I did my theory before my lessons and that seemed fine, I'd rather use a free mock test than pay £25 an hour for some revision help from an instructor anyway. Remember it'll take weeks/months to get a test slot probably...is there any pressing reason you/yr mum wants it done in a week?
Original post by StriderHort
In my opinion, no. Not that i've done one myself....but IMO the time between lessons is almost as important as the lessons themselves to let things sink in and think them over. Most have bad lessons/moments...I'd rather get that over with in one slot, then go away and calm down/get my confidence back, than know i was out for the whole day. Past a point in the week you'll likely stop effectively learning through fatigue or just getting annoyed and it'll still cost £25 odd an hour.

Taking normal lessons means you can determine and focus on particular areas of driving...lesson formats can be changed, you can take more/less or even change instructor if it's not working out, but taking a 5 day course you're committed to paying that full whack no matter what.

I did my theory before my lessons and that seemed fine, I'd rather use a free mock test than pay £25 an hour for some revision help from an instructor anyway. Remember it'll take weeks/months to get a test slot probably...is there any pressing reason you/yr mum wants it done in a week?

This is very sensible advice. When I worked as an examiner we had a local school which specialised in intensive courses - we called them 'Start Monday fail Friday' as most of the learners were nowhere near ready for the test and they would often be terminated for dangerous driving! Learning to drive is an important life skill, do not rush it!
Original post by StriderHort
In my opinion, no. Not that i've done one myself....but IMO the time between lessons is almost as important as the lessons themselves to let things sink in and think them over. Most have bad lessons/moments...I'd rather get that over with in one slot, then go away and calm down/get my confidence back, than know i was out for the whole day. Past a point in the week you'll likely stop effectively learning through fatigue or just getting annoyed and it'll still cost £25 odd an hour.

Taking normal lessons means you can determine and focus on particular areas of driving...lesson formats can be changed, you can take more/less or even change instructor if it's not working out, but taking a 5 day course you're committed to paying that full whack no matter what.

I did my theory before my lessons and that seemed fine, I'd rather use a free mock test than pay £25 an hour for some revision help from an instructor anyway. Remember it'll take weeks/months to get a test slot probably...is there any pressing reason you/yr mum wants it done in a week?

That's great advice.
StriderHort's post is very well reasoned.

I'd also add that taking an intensive course is not going to give you much experience in different lighting/weather/traffic conditions.

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