Targeted practice, steady mocks, and extra mileage in her own car.
Emily got in touch at the end of 2024, keen to follow in the footsteps of her older brother, Grant, whom I taught around ten years ago. Starting from the very beginning, we arranged to meet at Fountainpark—a convenient spot just inside my usual area—and set to work.
On the first lesson we covered the fundamentals: starting, stopping, gear changes, and an introduction to clutch control. Over the next few weeks, we developed that control further and steadily worked through the full syllabus. Emily was enthusiastic, asked thoughtful questions, and enjoyed refining the small details that make a big difference on the road.
When it came time for a mock driving test, she had the same experience many learners do: after a couple of mistakes, the pressure kicked in and we didn’t finish that first mock. No problem—that gave us a clear focus. A few weeks later we tried again, and Emily completed the route with a noticeable lift in confidence. We then followed a rhythm of targeted practice for a couple of weeks, followed by another mock. Each time, she grew more composed and consistent.
Emily still needed to pass her theory test, so we paused formal lessons while she revised. The good news was she had access to her own car, which meant she could keep practising between sessions. After passing the theory, she began the hunt for a practical test slot. A few months of regular checking paid off with an early November date at the Currie test centre.
We resumed lessons in the weeks before the test to sharpen everything up. On the day, Emily delivered exactly what she’d been building towards—returning to the centre with a first-time pass and feedback from the examiner that it was “a really good drive.” Just like her brother.
Well done, Emily—enjoy the freedom of having your licence.
