Everyone I’d spoken to about learning to drive all had one thing in common: they hated their instructors! Due to this, I feel like I found a needle in a haystack with Richard. He couldn’t have been more friendly, and was always very constructive with his comments. This allowed me to learn quickly, as I never felt like I was in a hostile environment. I hated school due to the way you were treated as less than because you were a student, and not a teacher. This was never the case when learning to drive with Richard.
Hayden
Passed First Time
A Perfect Drive - 0 Minors!
I had Richard as an instructor for nearly two years. He was so patient and kind, with a genuine care for both you and your driving. He always gives really simple, easy-to-understand help to improve your driving skills and ease your nerves before lessons or tests. I would recommend Richard to anyone, whether starting out or about to take their test, because he really is a top instructor and a top guy.
Stephen
A Perfect Drive - 0 Minors!
[Pavel came to us for lessons during the pandemic after being granted permission to take an Emergency Key Worker Test.]
Well done, Pavel! After the test, I spoke with the examiner, who said your driving was excellent and that she was extremely impressed with your standard of driving. Thank you for the valuable work you do.
- Richard
Pavel
Passed First Time
A Perfect Drive - 0 Minors!
I booked a 20 hour course with Richard. He was flexible and we spread the hours out how I wanted (over the course of one week). He helped me to get ready for the test and we fine tuned my driving until it was at a great standard. I passed first time, 4 days later. Overall, it was a very comfortable week, and I always felt at ease in the car. Thanks, Richard!
Gary
A Perfect Drive - 0 Minors!
I enjoyed all my lessons with Richard, he made learning to drive easy and helped me to be a confident and safe driver. He is such a friendly person which made me feel comfortable and relaxed in my lessons. Thank you!
Lauren
A Perfect Drive - 0 Minors!
Thank you!
Brodie
Passed First Time
A Perfect Drive - 0 Minors!
Richard, thank you very much for helping and teaching me to drive!
Rachel
Passed First Time
A Perfect Drive - 0 Minors!
Thank you!
David
Passed First Time
A Perfect Drive - 0 Minors!
Richard was patient, made me feel at ease and helped me to pass my test first time! He was very understanding and built my confidence on the roads. I couldn’t recommend Richard enough!
Amy
(Passed First Time)
Richard was very friendly and put me at ease while helping me learn to manage a manual transmission on UK roads and lose some of my bad habits (previous US licence holder). He was also very flexible with my random schedule for lessons. His instruction enabled me to pass my test first-time. Thank you for all of your patience and direction.
Rebecca
(Passed First Time)
My favourite part of the week was going into a store after my test on the Friday to buy some 'P' plates. The woman at the checkout asked, 'Hang on, didn't I just sell you 'L' plates on Monday night?!'
Jonathan
(Passed First Time)
Richard has been a fantastic driving instructor and I can’t thank him enough for his patience and understand throughout my driving experience. He lets you think for yourself as well as pointing you in the right direction on how to improve. He’s very friendly and dedicated for you to have every success. I will definitely be recommending him to friends and family!
Iona
(Passed First Time)
Richard is an excellent driving instructor. I found him calm, patient and able to easily put me (a nervous driver) at ease. He walks you through each stage of learning but also gives you the freedom to direct your own learning. I would highly recommend him if you're looking for an instructor. Thanks, Rebecca.
Rebecca
(Passed First Time)
I am so grateful for all of the help and guidance I received throughout the course of my lessons. Every lesson was built on what we had done last. I was always made to feel comfortable and reassured about any uncertainties around driving. This built my confidence massively and helped me to drive safely! Thank you!
Katie
(Passed First Time)
I would highly recommend Richard as an instructor. Being an older learner I felt a bit lacking in confidence. Richard was calm, encouraging and put me at ease. Can't thank him enough. Thanks for your patience.
Christine
(Passed First Time)
I have had other instructors in the past but I can honestly say that Richard's kind patient and understanding nature helped me pass my test. His teaching skills are unique, combine this with his nature he makes a great driving instructor. I would highly recommend Richard as your first choice when selecting your driving instructor. Big thanks again Richard.
Pauline
Richard has been huge help to my success in passing my test with weekly lessons. He made it easy to arrange appointments for lessons around my work hours. Very sociable and easy to get along with and provides support for lessons where needed. When it comes time for friends and relatives to learn I will of course recommend Richard to them.
Kevin
(Passed First Time)
Lessons with Richard really helped me get my confidence back up after not taking lessons for well over a year. He was very relaxed and patient and I always really enjoyed the lessons. I felt really prepared for my test and passed with only one minor. Thanks again for all your help, I really appreciate it! 😊
Amy
(Passed First Time)
It was a pleasure to know you - thank you for everything you have done!
Liam
(Passed First Time)
Passed first time with Richard's help!! Only got 3 minors. He was so patient with me and explained things more than once and in different ways until I understood. Thanks, Rachael.
Rachel
(Passed First Time)
I would recommend Richard to anyone! I was in an accident on my moped but Richard helped me to build my confidence back up with driving and today I passed first time. He was always so calm throughout each of my lessons with him and explained everything. So calming having him as an instructor, greatly thankful for all the time he's put in to help me pass!
Rayne
(Passed First Time)
It was a pleasure doing my driving lessons with Richard. From the start he took the pressure away from driving to the point where I didn't have to be nervous about my lessons. It was a calm and relaxed atmosphere throughout and I will recommend Richard to anyone wanting to start driving.
Paul
(Passed First Time)
I highly recommend getting your driving lessons with Richard. He is always happy to help you with anything you are struggling with when leaning to drive and never gets annoyed or impatient if you can't get something right and will keep you at ease the whole time understanding you may be nervous. I passed 1st time and we always had good conversations on every lesson.
Robert
(Passed First Time)
I will be recommending Richard to everyone I know looking to do their lessons and test. From the first moment I go into the car he ensured a calm and relaxed atmosphere. He identified my strengths and weaknesses and then worked on my weaknesses to bring them up to test standard. I booked a 20 Hours Semi-Intensive Course and the time from starting lessons to passing my test was a total of three days - I had long lessons on Monday & Tuesday and then passed my test first time on the Wednesday morning. Richard is a great instructor - he is patient, understanding and works with and not against you. Thanks for everything Richard - I am loving my new car and can't wait to get the roof down!
Gareth
(Passed First Time)
I couldn't have asked for a better instructor to help me pass my test. Richard always gave necessary advice where needed and of course praise too. I couldn't have passed without his help and highly recommend him for anyone looking for an enjoyable driving experience.
Melissa
(Passed First Time)
I am Omer and I have just passed my practical driving test on 27-01-2015. I have learned and enhanced all my driving skills and confidence under the supervision of Richard. Here I would like to take this opportunity to thank Richard for his dedication, devotion and extremely positive attitude towards the profession - even minor issues are handled with persuasion and great judgment. Richard has helped me to pass within a period of 10 days and he is exceptional in his teaching and coaching skills.
Thank you so much Richard - the first person I will recommend you to is my lovely wife and the list will go on and on.
Omar
(Passed First Time)
From the start, Richard and his relaxed, but focused, teaching style put me at ease with driving. This approach, alongside the informative and progressive materials, helped me to feel very confident driving and ultimately pass first time with only 2 minors. Thank you Richard for all the help, you were a brilliant instructor!
Andrew
(Passed First Time)
Any mistakes or mishaps along the way were fixed quickly with reassurance - rather than letting me dwell upon the problem. I passed first time with only 4 minors. Thankyou Richard!
Nicole
(First Time Pass)
Andrew
(Passed First Time)
Ryan
(Passed First Time)
Kristie
(Passed First Time)
Connor
(Passed First Time)
Jessica
(Passed First Time)
Abby
(Passed First Time)
Thank you!
Jamie
(Passed First Time)
Thank you!
Emma
(Passed First Time)
Thank you!
Rhianna
(Passed First Time)
I had a fantastic experience learning to drive with Richard. He was always patient, encouraging and made me feel at ease behind the wheel. His clear instructions and helpful tips gave me the confidence to improve with every lesson. I highly recommend Richard to anyone looking for a knowledgeable and supportive driving instructor.
Ashton
Richard made the process of learning to drive so much more accessible and friendly than I could’ve imagined! I was anxious to begin, but after his calm teaching style and continuous support, I feel confident to drive on my own and would recommend him to anyone. Each lesson was enjoyable, and no question was too silly to ask!
Rachael
Passing with Richard was such a breeze - he’s so patient and polite and made me feel at ease from the moment I stepped into the driver’s seat. Thanks to him, I passed with only 2 minors, and I feel confident that I’ll be able to put my learning to good use on the roads!
Julienne
Richard is a really good instructor. He’s a nice guy and is very patient with his pupils. He also keeps calm and is very good at explaining things during the lessons.
Matthew
Huge thanks to Richard for helping me and assisting me greatly throughout every lesson. Absolutely incredible driving instructor, his easy explanations made the test so straightforward for me and helped me to pass the test. I definitely would recommend Richard to anyone looking for a driving instructor!!!
Reza
Richard helped me thoroughly throughout my time learning with him. His continuous support and helpfulness motivated me and helped me to pass confidently.
James
Richard, I honestly can't thank you enough for all your help throughout my driving lessons. I couldn't have asked for a better instructor, and you have the patience of a saint! Thank you!
Arlene
Richard is a brilliant instructor who helped me learn to be safe on the road, as well as helping me pass my test. He would explain every topic thoroughly until I was completely comfortable with it. He made my lessons fun and enjoyable as well as creative. I would definitely recommend Richard to everyone! Thanks for everything Richard 🙂
Romy
I would definitely recommend Richard, he made me feel so at ease whilst learning. Having been with a different instructor before he adapted well and helped me regain my confidence, making me the best driver I could be. He is so patient and understanding.
Abby
For someone who was nervous to start driving I thoroughly enjoyed my lessons with Richard. He was extremely supportive, patient and knowledgable as well as great to get along with. He was able to adapt and explain things in a way that was easy to understand and allowed me to build confidence with driving. Richard's focus was always on how to be a safe and sensible driver; not just to pass the test. I would definitely recommend him to other learners.
Emily
Being an older learner my first-time nerves soon disappeared thanks to Richard. He is very patient and his relaxed style soon had me looking forward to my next lesson. He taught me every aspect of driving and was quick to give me some great tips that helped me improve my driving skills.
He supports you every step of the way until you are ready to take your test. Nothing is too much trouble and his great sense of humour and enthusiasm made lessons fun! It was more like learning with a friend.
If you are looking for a great instructor (young or older learners) I would recommend Richard 100%. Thank you Richard!
Elaine
Thank you Richard. As an older learner (and after a gap of 28 years since my first attempt) a few things had changed. As you age, rather than just driving, a tendency to over analyse sets in. Generally we become more risk averse. If you are an older person learning to drive or thinking about taking the plunge, Richard has the skill set to get you driving. Patient, and more than prepared to discuss everything, Richard will soon have you up to speed and out on the motorways concentrating and talking as in real life. Thank you Richard, I am very grateful.
John-Paul
Richard is a great instructor and I would recommend him to anyone, He was really patient, informative and very helpful. I couldn't have done it without him, he's just a really nice guy.
James
I really enjoyed my lessons with Richard. He is a very calm and patient person, which also helped me stay calm when on the road. I will definitely recommend him to anyone who is learning. Passed with two minors. Thanks again Richard!
Chloe
Would highly recommend Richard for driving lessons, he is very patient and understanding and always helps you to understand anything you're not sure about. Thanks Richard
Jack
I’d recommend Richard to anyone who’s struggled to learn to drive in the past...
I tried a few instructors whose approach didn’t really work for me but found Richard's patient and flexible attitude really made lessons enjoyable. When I was struggling with something he was always able to offer more than one way of doing things which was a great help! A genuinely nice guy with seemingly limitless patience! 😊
Jennifer
I started lessons a little later than most and struggled a lot with confidence. Richard's warm, friendly and gentle approach put me at ease straight away. Driving wasn't something that came naturally to me but Richard was always really positive, encouraging and patient. He was always willing to offer useful tips and suggestions when I was struggling with something and was genuinely keen to help. Lessons with Richard really helped me to work on my driving skills and build my confidence. He is a great coach and I would highly recommend him to others! Thank you so much for all of your support Richard. 😊
Carly
I would highly recommend Richard to anyone who is looking for a driving instructor. He is incredibly patient and made every lesson pressure-free due to him being so easy to get along with. He was brilliant when it came to answering any questions I had about driving and provided great explanations when it came to fixing any mistakes that I made on a lesson. Overall I thoroughly enjoyed the lessons I done with Richard and I am delighted with the standard of driving he was able to get me to.
Lewis
Richard is a really easy-going guy who has a lot of patience for learners. He can take away the nerves and make you feel as though you are driving next to a friend and all the while you're still learning. He has exceptional skills in communicating the rules of the road with inexperienced drivers to help you understand what you need to do. Would recommend: 10/10
Michael
Richard is a fantastic and enthusiastic driving instructor. He supports you through your development as a driver from beginning to test success. He has a great sense of humour and is easy to learn from. I would not hesitate to recommend Richard as a driving instructor!
Katherine
I decided to take the intense one week driving course with my practical test at the end of the week. Being nervous and anxious about the week and the test I was relieved to find Richard friendly, calm and he put me at ease from the beginning. He has been patient and thorough when explaining the manoeuvres and driving skills and helped me to pass my practical test first time! Thank you Richard!
Nadia
Richard was my driving instructor for around six months while I learned to drive. He was patient, very easy going and has a great method of teaching. He made the lessons very enjoyable for me as I tend to get very stressed and impatient when it comes to learning new things but overall it was a great experience and I ended up passing first time ! Thanks again Richard 🙂
Ryan
I had a good few lessons with another instructor which didn't work out too well. I ended up giving up for about a year before contacting Richard for a review lesson. I was really nervous but Richard reassured me that I was pretty much ready to drive independently. I have had only a few months of lessons and I've already passed my test. Richard is a great instructor, honestly you won't find a nicer guy. He's always willing to help you out, whether that's help with theory or driving questions. I struggled with reversing left but after a lot of help and support from Richard I've finally managed to ace it every time I attempt it. If you're looking for an instructor that's easy to get along with, not at all strict and offers support whenever you need it, Richard is your guy. Can't thank him enough for all his help!
Amy
Richard was brilliant. He made me feel completely at ease and within a few lessons my nerves were gone. He explained everything really simply and I never felt under pressure. Richard was always really encouraging and made me look forward to my lessons instead of dreading them which was a big deal for me. He is a great instructor and I would recommend him to anyone who feels anxious about driving. Thank you Richard.
Erin
I would highly recommend Richard. He's an easy going guy and does his best to help. Overall, I had a really good experience learning to drive with him.
Jack
It was a pleasure having Richard as my driving instructor, he makes you feel very relaxed and not matter what obstacles appear Richard approaches each section in a fun and easily understandable way to help you get to the professional standard of driving required to pass the test.
Stuart
Richard is a great instructor. I was always nervous about stating to drive but Richard helped me get over those nerves and become more confident in my ability to drive. 🙂
Ryan
Thank you!
Gavin
(Only 2 minors!)
I was able to pass with only 4 minors. Thank you!
James
(Passed first time!)
Thank you!
Mark
(Only 3 minors!)
Richard is a brilliant instructor. I've been trying to learn to drive on and off for about five years but was finding it really difficult due to anxiety. Richard's friendly, jokey attitude made me relax during lessons and I ended up passing first time! He will always ask what you want out of the lesson and create the lesson around you.
Joanne
(Passed First Time)
Richard has been a very helpful and great instructor. During my lessons he was patient and would help me address any issues in my driving that would appear, as well as being overall positive. In mock tests he was honest and would provide useful insight for future mock tests and my actual test. I can confidently recommend Richard to any person looking to get their driving licence.
David
Dylan
Lauren
Amit
Amber
Amit
A calm and patient driving instructor. I was very apprehensive coming back to learning to drive as an older driver but Richard's calm and patient nature meant I was able to build confidence at my own pace. I am now confident driving on my own since passing my test. Thanks very much!
Vicky
After failing my first driving test my confidence took a severe knock. Richard very kindly, and very quickly, agreed to take me on as a pupil. He made me feel very comfortable and at ease, giving me fantastic advice and tips for my next test, which was 2 days later. Proud to say I passed with only one minor! Thoroughly recommend Richard - even in such a short space of time, he helped me.
Abbie
Passed my test first time with only 2 minors! Learning with Richard was great. He was very helpful and patient. Definitely would recommend.
Sophie
I have nothing but great things to say about learning with Richard. From the very first lesson until after my test I always felt comfortable and confident in the car with him. The atmosphere was very relaxed and progress in my driving was quick. Would highly recommend to anybody. Thanks Richard!
David
A Note
The position of any particular testimonial should not be taken as a reflection of that pupil's test result.
Many of the people featured here passed first time and/or achieved excellent results with very few driving faults, regardless of where they appear in the gallery and even where this isn't mentioned in their review. In cases where I couldn't be completely certain of the exact result after all these years, I preferred to leave it unstated rather than risk remembering it wrong.
Not every testimonial and photograph has survived the passage of time, so this collection represents only a small snapshot of the people I've had the pleasure of teaching.
To those former pupils who passed but preferred not to have their photograph taken — something I completely understand and respect — please know that your trust, kind words and company have been every bit as appreciated.
To every pupil, past and present, thank you for allowing me to be part of your journey. It has been a privilege to help you gain the skills, confidence and independence that come with learning to drive.
I've learned at least as much from you all as you have from me, and every one of you has left me with something valuable — a better understanding of teaching, my subject, other people, and myself.
Please never stop asking questions or looking for ways to improve.
I wish you all many years of safe and happy motoring.
— Richard
A Family Tradition of Teaching Driving
Before he retired, my dad and I worked together as driving instructors. Although the learners below were taught by him rather than me, I wanted to include a small selection here to celebrate the many people he helped gain confidence and pass their tests over the years. Over the last few years, I was fortunate enough to meet and spend time with many of you myself, and we wanted to thank you for being part of our journey.
