I have officially enrolled with the Instructor College and have paid them a bucket, no digger truck, load of money to get me through the required tests.
It’s week one. I managed to get the money from my credit card to the college only last Friday after trying for over a week to pay a place that doesn’t accept credit cards (!?!). I have checked them out and asked awkward questions and am happy that my small personal fortune is in good hands. There are 3 sections to pass. Firstly the Theory and Hazard Perception tests; Secondly the driving test and finally the teacher training test. Section 1 will be interesting because even though I did not pass my car licence until June 1998 and therefore should have done a theory test, I didn’t because I was (and am) in possession of a full motorbike licence (since August 1991 no less) and at the time it was thought this meant you knew the theory as you used it and therefore did not need to pass a theory test. I believe this has changed! The first and second sections are basically the tests learner drivers have to pass, but as a trainee instructor you have a much higher pass mark to attain. After these are passed I will be officially allowed to charge people for lessons as a trainee driving instructor.
Probably won’t though, I’ll wait until I pass the training bit, which involved the examiner detailing two role plays in which they play a type of learner, and you then have to teach that learner for half-hour. So a 1-hour exam. Pass this and you qualify. Apparently this 3rd section is the hardest, but given my experience so far it’s the section that worries me least!
So, I’ve started section 1. I was given all the books etc. I may need and homework to complete before my first class this saturday morning. Yes, I actually go in to the college for classes and given my experience of online learning, I know this will suit me best. I have had to complete 100 multiple choice theory test questions in 4 sets. The aim is to obtain 22/25 per set, though to start off with it was expected to attain 16/25. I have managed 23; 23; 23; 25. So clearly I am a genius and will have no trouble passing the qualification and launching my glittering new career! LOL. Lets hope I’m not being falsely lulled.
I also have to wait for my criminal record check to be returned so I can send off my official registration as a trainee driving instructor and be able to take the appropriate tests! Who knew it was this complicated eh?
Everyone I have told my plans to so far has been nothing but complimentary and supportive. Thank you all, though obviously I’m not telling my boss at the moment! I’ve no plans to leave here so why let them think I do and have that at the back of their minds every plan or action I make? So, just between you and me for now eh? Thanks! 
