An update on our plans during this difficult time.
As of today (20th March 2020), lessons are still going ahead. However, nobody knows for certain what government plans will be enforced in the coming weeks and months. Until I am told to stop lessons, it is business as usual.
Please note, however, that if you become ill yourself, or you are required to self-isolate due to a household member showing symptoms of the virus, please cancel your lesson. The cancellation policy is very lenient at the moment, and if you are genuinely forced to isolate then there will be no charge for a short-notice cancellation.
In terms of the wider picture, Theory tests have been suspended for four weeks. Those of you who I’ve been nagging to book your theory, so as not to delay your ability to book a practical test, should keep practicing and take your theory test as soon as possible when test centres reopen.
Practical tests were suspended for the two days of the 19th and 20th March only. At present, there is no blanket ban on practical tests. Examiners are, of course, facing illness and may be forced to isolate just like the rest of the country if their household becomes unwell. This will mean that there may be short-notice cancellations of driving tests.
On a personal level, it is becoming more and more likely that as an ex-nurse, I may be called upon to rejoin the nursing profession on a temporary basis under emergency legislation given to the Nursing & Midwifery Council. Although it will be optional, I feel it is my duty as a responsible citizen to help out with front-line nursing care if the need arises. I trust you will all support me in this if and when this happens. I will, of course, resume driving lessons once “it all blows over”.
But until I get the letter on my doormat, it’s driving lessons as normal, unless you inform me otherwise.
Best wishes, stay safe and sensible and look after each other.
Richard Bates
Approved Driving Instructor
Inclusive Driving.
