Mikes Driving Lessons - Blog > School News > 2020
And that's us "Keys hung up" again 
Stay safe through Tier 4 and hopefully the review won't be too long off!
For those with rescheduelled tests - keep your eyes peeled on your emails, and forward them through if you can
I'll be in touch personally to reschedule lessons and test bookings, don't fret 
For now, stay safe and I'll see you all soon 
Tag: School News
30th Dec 2020
Merry Christmas from Everyone behind-the-scenes at Mike's Driving Lessons!
Hope everyone has a fantastic day and we will see you all soon!
Mike
Tag: School News
25th Dec 2020
Today's Congratulations go to Jack, who wrapped up his learning by completing the Pass Plus course today.
Well done braving the last minute shoppers through the Trafford center and some very foggy windy conditions over the hills and far away!
Go and enjoy that new found freedom (and a tasty insurance discount too!)
Want to find out more about the pass plus course? Click here: http://www.mikesdrivinglessons.co.uk/how-to-get-started.html
Tag: School News
21st Dec 2020
A perfect Christmas present (vouchers available in limited numbers!)
With the Pandemic causing all sorts of delays for theory test dates, it's essential that when you take the test, you're 100% confident!
We have our Limited time Christmas offer on our Theory Test Masterclass App for as little as
£5 for a 10 week period.
That's less than a pound a week!
You get both Theory and Hazard Preception training with 24/7 online support.
Check out at: http://www.TheoryTestMasterclass.co.uk | https://www.facebook.com/TheoryTestMasterclass
Tag: Theory Test Masterclass, School News
2nd Dec 2020
Driver Training to Resume! (Not even starting the debate between 2nd/3rd!)
All lessons will be going ahead in the slots I confirmed when lockdown started.
Be good to see you all very soon!
The Motor Schools Association (MSA GB) - Providing Information, Representation and Services to Driving Instructors throughout Great Britain.
Tag: School News
1st Dec 2020
Looks like we're confirmed good to get back behind the wheel on Thursday 3rd December. Personally, I can't wait and I know some of you are more excited than me!
I'll be in touch to confirm your lesson slots as per, if there's any questions or queries please don't hesitate to pop me a message!
Tag: School News
23rd Nov 2020
I will be in touch with you all individually to get everybody sorted, but for now, stay safe and stay home!
— feeling sad.
Tag: School News, Government Information
2nd Nov 2020
Today's Congratulations go to Jack, who even got compliments of the examiner on his cool, collected drive on an early Friday morning!
Credit where it's due, all that hard work has paid off now 
Enjoy your freedom in the Polo and I'll see you soon for our Pass Plus adventure!
Want to find out more about Pass Plus? Message our page or click here:
http://www.mikesdrivinglessons.co.uk/how-to-get-started.html
Tag: School News
23rd Oct 2020
Today's congrats go to Brad who (sponsored by Costa coffee!) completed his Pass Plus course.
Every single weather condition going definitely kept you on your toes on the M6!
Enjoy the roundabouts of Crewe, and enjoy your freedom in the Peugeot
Want to develop your independence on the Motorway? Find out more at http://www.mikesdrivinglessons.co.uk/motorway-driving.html
Tag: School News
10th Oct 2020
Thursday Congratulations go to Kate who passed at Rochdale Test Centre after some hectic Covid disruptions!
Well deserved Kate, enjoy the freedom in your little Ka and beep if you see me! 
Tag: School News
24th Sept 2020
Today's massive Congratulations go to Brad, who coped with the weirdest on-off rain to secure his full licence!
Thanks for entertaining the examiner whilst you were out, it sounds like you had a right laugh!
Stay safe out there and be sure to beep if you see me!
Spaces are strictly limited due to the Covid backlog, don't delay and get booked in today!
Call us on 07825636871
Tag: School News
23rd Sept 2020
MASSIVE congratulations to Jack Rambo for passing his driving test (In Style!) at Rochdale this afternoon
Enjoy the open road, it's long overdue!
Stay safe out there and beep if you see me
Tag: School News
22nd Sept 2020
Getting the first service in.. smashing the miles already!
Keeping you guys safe and sound on your lessons, by making sure our cars are maintained to the highest standards.
Tag: School News
22nd Aug 2020
Congrats to Jamie fitting in an early early morning motorway drive on his Pass Plus module
We've even beaten the café opening!
Stay safe out there
Want to gain confidence on the motorway? Call us on 07825636871 for more info
Tag: School News
16th Aug 2020
Well done to Jamie who passed his test at Rochdale with flying colours!
Just remember not to smash limbs into car doors when you're celebrating
Enjoy your freedom and I'll see you soon for our Pass Plus adventure!
Want your full Driving Licence just like Jamie? Send us a message on here at www.MikesDrivingLessons.co.uk
Tag: School News
3rd Aug 2020
DVSA Information about rebooking your pupils test
Inviting candidates to rebook their driving test
We recently told you that we'd contact critical workers and practical car test candidates in England whose tests were put on hold due to coronavirus to ask them to choose a new test date and time.
We will send emails out:
- on 15 July to critical workers in England, Scotland and Wales who had a test booked during lockdown
- from 16 July to candidates in England whose practical car test was put on hold due to lockdown
Both emails will include a link to book a new test date as the candidate booking system remains closed.
This link will only work for people who have been invited to rebook their test.
When we email candidates whose tests were put on hold due to lockdown, we'll initially invite around 10,000 each day, split in batches to spread out demand on the service.
All available appointments will be shown on the online service. Do not contact our customer service centre as they will not be able to book any alternative test slots.
Making sure your pupils are ready
It's important that you speak to your pupils before they rebook their tests to make sure:
- they are ready to take their test
- you are available to take them
As examiners will only be at test centres when they have a test booked, we have increased the minimum notice period for booking a test from 60 minutes to 10 hours.
Wearing a face covering
All candidates must wear a face covering when taking their driving test, unless they have a good reason not to. This includes if:
- they have a physical or mental illness or impairment, or a disability that means they cannot put on, wear or remove a face covering
- putting on, wearing or removing a face covering would cause them severe distress
When they arrange their test, they’ll need to say if there’s a good reason they cannot wear a face covering. The email will tell them how to do this.
Tag: School News, Government Information
15th Jul 2020
Best day in the last 100 days by far.... Massive thank you to my pupils today!
I've missed this job and most importantly you guys so much.
Onwards and upwards now, let's get back "up to speed!"
Tag: School News, Coronavirus
2nd Jul 2020
Just view some of the successful pupils at Mikes Driving Lessons
Tag: School News, Videos
3rd July 2020
Mike's Driving Lessons
Driving Lesson procedures from 6th July Onwards:
Before the Lesson:
You may notice me get to our starting location early to disinfect the car after I have driven it there.
Before you get in the car to start your lesson, I will ask you to confirm that:
- You do not have a high temperature.
- No one in your household has any symptoms.
- You are willing to taking part in the NHS Test and Trace initiative.
- You are willing to wear a face covering. These must be on BEFORE entering the car.
- You are willing to use Anti-Bacterial Hand gel..
During the lesson:
- You will not be able to bring any food or drink with you. All personal belongings must be kept on your person (i.e. pockets) rather than placed in the center console.
- If you feel unwell at any point during the lesson you MUST inform me and the lesson will be aborted.
- If we need to have a lengthy discussion regarding any part of the lesson, we will exit the car and do this in the fresh air outside. Please wear appropriate clothing for the weather conditions.
- During the lesson we may have a ‘clean down’ at the midpoint where you will be able to exit the car for refreshments and to remove your mask if you wish.
At the end of the lesson:
- Please do not remove your mask until you are outside of the car and at least 2 metres away. The car will then be cleaned thoroughly before I drive to the next lesson.
- Please fill in your reflective logs once you are home. This is to minimise sharing of any pens or clipboards.
Tag: School News, Coronavirus
2nd Jul 2020
Information on Theory and Practical tests resuming:
https://www.gov.uk/guidance/coronavirus-covid-19-driving-tests-and-theory-tests
Coronavirus: driving tests (England)
Car driving tests will restart in England on 22 July 2020 with safety precautions in place - other types of tests will restart before then...
THEORY TESTING
For the theory test, the guidance includes:
- using floor markings to keep people 2 metres apart
- spacing workstations and chairs to keep people at least 2 metres away from other people
- extra cleaning of the test centres
- using protective transparent screens at the reception desk
- providing hand sanitiser when candidates arrive and leave
- cleaning workstations, including computers and headphones, before every test
- coming into the test centre alone
DRIVING AND MOTORCYCLE TESTS
The practical test guidance includes:
- You should wear a face covering if you are able to. Unless you have exceptional circumstances.
- Do not arrive for your test more than 5 minutes before the appointment time.
- Candidates will be directed back to the driving test centre if they make a serious or dangerous fault
- Waiting rooms will not be available for use.
Tag: GOV.UK
Tag: School News, Government Information
1st Jul 2020
Breaking news! Lessons to resume!
Your lessons will look slightly different when we return, in order to keep both pupils and instructors safe after the pandemic.
Have a look at our Covid policy here:
http://www.mikesdrivinglessons.co.uk/.../coronavirus-policy-2...
Learners with test disruptions - Your test could come sooner than you realise, and it's key to get you back into the car and back up to speed after the lockdown period (Even i'm rusty at driving after a 3 month break!)
The backlog of tests is absolutely massive as you would expect, so failing your test will put you to the back of an already long queue. When rebooking your test slot, give yourself enough time to fit in enough lessons to get back up to speed and become the best driver you can be, get it done first time and go enjoy that freedom!
I will be in contact with you in terms of dates/times of these rebooked tests so don't worry, I will be in touch.
Current learners - Much of your day to day life may have changed, perhaps you're not in college every day now, or working different days/hours compared to what you were before the lockdown. I will be in touch with you all individually to ensure you get a slot for lessons that is either the same as before lockdown, or suits your current situation. Again, dont worry, I will be in touch.
New learners - With the DVSA shutting down pretty much everything since March, this has had a massive effect on our students passing their tests, and creating availability for you. Rest assured you have not been forgotton and we will be in touch as soon as a space opens for you. We thank you for your patience during this strange time!
If you have any questions on anything at all regarding getting back behind the wheel, please don't hesitate to message the page
See you all soon!
Mike
Tag: DVSA
Tag: School News
25th June 2020
In the House of Commons today.
Greg Smith MP - Buckingham
With the good news this week that further parts of our economy can re-open from 4th July, a particular sector left wondering when they can return to work are driving instructors.
I have been contacted by a number of instructors in the constituency, such as Tom Matthews of Viking school of motoring in Buckingham, setting out comprehensive measures he has taken to be Covid-secure and reporting a long queue of customers wanting him to teach them to drive.
Whilst it is right the economy is re-opened cautiously and following the science, this morning I called on the government to ensure statements are made to the House of Commons as soon as possible to give the thousands of driving instructors in our country the guidance they need to understand when and how they may be able to return to work too.
The Leader of the House of Commons (Mr Jacob Rees-Mogg) replied:
I am grateful to my hon. Friend for his question. Driving instructors are one of the unseen engines of the country. They train future generations of drivers, and I hope they can resume their important work safely as soon as possible.
The Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency chief executive will be writing to all approved driving instructors on 25 June, setting out plans to restart driver testing and to help them to return to a life that is as close to normal as possible, as quickly and as fairly as possible, in a way that avoids a second peak of infections.
From 4 July, I am happy to say that people will be able to take driving lessons on a motorcycle, or in a car, lorry or bus, and there will be a phased approach to resuming practical testing, so learners have the opportunity to practise before taking a test. But he can raise this with the Secretary of State for Transport on 2 July.
Tag: Greg Smith MP - Buckingham, Hansard
Tag: School News, Government Information
25th June 2020
BBC Breakfast this morning. Huge well done to Joe and Sasha for taking time to support up in raising the awareness.
Driving Instructors COVID Struggle on BBC Breakfast
Chris Bensted - Developing Information & the Driver Trainer Community
Tag: BBC, Chris Bensted - Developing Information & the Driver Trainer Community
Tag: School News
25th June 2020
Gareth Llewellyn, Chief Executive of the Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency (DVSA) could not say when lessons and tests will start again.
https://www.mirror.co.uk/.../driving-examiners-told-wear-glov...
Here's hoping lockdown restrictions lifting will shed some light on getting back behind the wheel!
Tag: MIRROR.CO.UK
Tag: School News
16th June 2020
***Important Announcement***
Rescheduled driving tests to be put "On Hold"
This means your rescheduled driving test will NOT go ahead on the date planned.
If you haven't received an email to this end, please feel free to give me a call.
We WILL get there, I promise!
Mike
Tag: School News
15th June 2020
More theory tests postponed, now in line with Scotland and Wales (though they got told that last month!)
If your theory has been rescheduled then feel free to text me, I'm here to help 
Concerns that danger drivers are using lockdown to turn rural roads into 'racetracks'
Tag: School News, Government Information
12th June 2020
More theory test cancellations up to 14th June (check for any emails if you think you have been affected!)
As usual, any help needed feel free to ask
Tag: School News
5th June 2020
There’s no "official" set date when we return back to work yet.
Once lessons start again, we're in for a busy time!
If you want to get started with your lessons please message sooner rather than later, and we will be able to confirm you a slot when the world reopens!
If you’re a key worker we might be able to help you out sooner. Call or message us for more info.
If you have any questions regarding theory tests or your practical test booking, feel free to contact us, and we will try or best to help you out.
Tag: School News
5th June 2020
More theory tests reschedueled....
Looks like they're being cancelled bit by bit.
Keep an eye on your emails if you have one booked!
As usual, if there's any help you need, drop me a message
Tag: School News, Government Information
3rd June 2020
Theory Tests on Tuesday 2nd and Wednesday 3rd June to be rescheduled.
(I really hope we're not gunna do this in 2 day blocks as that's gunna be a lot of updates and screenshots!)
Please share about
Tag: School News, Government Information
1st June 2020
In car driver training still limited to Key workers who have either applied for, or have a confirmed date for a key workers driving test. (As of Fri 29th May)
Still no confirmed dates for normal lessons resuming, but as soon as DVSA give us a green light we'll be out there enjoying this sunshine!
Keep an eye on this page and I'll be posting the updates as soon as they arrive to us
Stay safe, stay smiling
See you all soon
Tag: School News, Government Information
30th May 2020
DVSA sent this email out last night (well past my bedtime!) rescheduling Theory Tests booked for Monday 1st June.
Presumably, Theory Tests in England will resume from Tuesday 2nd June, but I anticipate another update from then across the weekend/Monday.
Scotland and Wales' theory tests rescheduelled up to 21st June 2020.
Keep your eyes peeled for more updates over the next few days and if your test has been affected please feel free to inbox us!
Tag: School News, Government Information
30th May 2020
Getting ready to get back behind the wheel
https://www.theorytestpro.co.uk/.../how-your-driving-lessons.../
Here's How Your Driving Lessons Will Change as the Lockdown is Eased
Since the lockdown was imposed, driving lessons have been put on hold – here's how this could change as restrictions are eased...
Tag: THEORYTESTPRO.CO.UK
Tag: School News
29th May 2020
Driving theory tests to re-open as scheduled on June 1st.
All those learners who had a test cancelled and refunded - you can now Rebook!
Use this unexpected free time to get revising, and remember I'm here to help however you need, whether it's by phone or zoom
Book Theory Test: https://www.gov.uk/book-theory-test
Tag: School News, Government Information
21st May 2020
Interesting take on Driving lessons/private practice from BBC
Full link: https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/world-asia-china-51176409
Tag: School News
16th May 2020
Vehicle checks!
If you need to travel, this lad has a genius way to check your car is safe to drive - his poor girlfriend
Tag: School News, General News
16th May 2020
Well this lockdown has given me time to eventually find this! We're Google maps famous!
Hope everyone is making more productive use of their time than I am
Tag: School News, General News
3rd April 2020
A quick FAQ regarding Coronavirus and Driving Lessons
Tag: School News, General News, Videos
1st Apr 2020
We'll be back soon, when all this Coronavirus has blown over.
Keys hung up for now, stay safe, look after loved ones and I'll be pecking your head about mirrors before you know it!
#MikesDrivingLessons
Tag: School News
23rd Mar 2020
Coronavirus
Morning all students.
This is really a message I don't want to type, but it is with great regret that due the ongoing Coronavirus situation that Driving Lessons this week will be postponed.
I will be monitoring the situation weekly, and hope to get you all back behind the wheel ASAP.
Those with Theory or Practical test bookings are currently being reviewed by the DVSA. You should receive an email in due course as things smoothen out. As usual, any worries feel free to give me a call.
I will be ringing everyone individually to Rebook lessons, so if I miss your call I'll ring you as soon as I can!
Most importantly, stay safe over this next week. Wash your hands and keep social distancing, and hopefully normal service will resume in next to no time.
Thank you for your understanding and I'll see you all again soon to get those tests passed
Mike
Mike's Driving Lessons.
Tag: Coronavirus, School News, General News
23rd Mar 2020
Coronavirus
Myself and the team behind Mike's Driving Lessons would like to say a huge 'thank you' to all of our students, present and future that are following the guidelines about staying safe during this difficult time.
As you can imagine this is a very worrying time for the self-employed and we are incredibly grateful for all your support at this time by continuing with your lessons. Thank you.
We know there will be a Massive demand for Lessons and Driving Tests once the coronavirus outbreak is over, so by continuing with your lessons now it will mean that you will be able to book the earliest possible driving tests when things return to normal and be driving much sooner compared to delaying your lessons and being hit with even more test waiting times.
Our cars are probably the cleanest place you can be right now, being meticulously sprayed over between each lesson.
I will give you as much notice as possible if I need to self isolate for any reason to minimise disruption to your learning.
For any of our students who are showing symptoms, or have come into contact with someone who has contracted the virus or has tested positive for the virus, then please let me know as soon as possible.
Although we would ask you to let us know as early as possible if you need to cancel, there will be no charge for cancelling your lessons at short notice because of the virus.
With that in mind, at this time, your reliability is hugely appreciated by all of us. If you can avoid cancelling your lessons for any other reason, then it would be very much appreciated.
If you have any concerns or questions about your lessons or test, please contact me directly and I'll be more than happy to help.
We hope you all stay safe and let’s hope life returns to normal very soon.
Thank you so much again for your continuing support
Let's hit the road!
Tag: Coronavirus, School News, General News
21st Mar 2020
Morning again Drivers!
Another update regarding the ongoing situation with #Coronavirus
All lessons are On as usual, however Driving Tests have been cancelled Thursday 19th and Friday 20th.
Instructors will hopefully get an update on Friday with regards to tests from Monday 23rd.
This will understandably lead to disruption if you have a test booked.
Check your emails (and your spam folder!) for any emails from DVSA, and if your test has been rescheduelled call or text me ASAP.
We've all handled more chaos than this before, keep smiling and normal service will be back soon
Mike
Mike's Driving Lessons
Tag: Coronavirus, School News, General News
19th Mar 2020
Morning all customers
Despite the ongoing #Coronavirus situation, lessons are all ON as normal, until otherwise advised.
Please be reassured in the fact that my car is sanitised after every lesson to minimise any potential germs in the car.
If possible, wash your hands before your lesson, and if needed feel free to ask me for some alcohol hand gel or antibacterial wipes for your hands :)
As long as everybody takes precautions it'll be normal service as usual in next to no time.
Enjoy escaping the doom and gloom for two hours!
See you all out there!
Mike
Tag:
Tag: Coronavirus, School News, General News
18th Mar 2020
He's done it! Massive Congratulations to Jonny for passing his test earlier today at Chadderton Test Centre.
What a well deserved drive mate. That hard work has all paid off :)
Enjoy the open road and wave when you see me!
Find out more about getting your driving licence at www.MikesDrivingLessons.co.uk
Tag: School News
6th Mar 2020
He's done it! Massive Congratulations to Jonny for passing his test earlier today at Chadderton Test Centre.
What a well deserved drive mate. That hard work has all paid off :)
Enjoy the open road and wave when you see me!
Find out more about getting your driving licence at www.MikesDrivingLessons.co.uk
Tag: School News
6th Mar 2020
It's harder to pass your driving test in Rochdale than anywhere else in the UK
https://www.rochdaleonline.co.uk/...its-harder-to-pass-your-driving-test-in-rochdale-than-anywhere-else-in-the-uk
It's harder to pass your driving test in Rochdale than anywhere else in the UK
Tag: ROCHDALEONLINE.CO.UK
Tag: School News, General
4th Mar 2020
Sun's out :)
Roll on Summer!
#Summer #Sun #Roadtrip #Driving #DrivingLessonsRoyton
Tag: School News
23rd Feb 2020
It's days like this I love my job :)
New car and motivated pupils
Don't worry if you haven't been taught today, we'll be coming for you!
If you haven't booked in yet, what's stopping you
Make 2020 YOUR year!
Tag: School News
4th Jan 2020
