Testimonials
Phil Knight ADI
I took the Excelsior’s ‘Train the Trainers’ course with Nigel and I found his
knowledge and delivery to be outstanding, well above what I expected.
I successfully passed the ORDIT inspection, and the training I have
received from Nigel has made me into a better instructor too. I'm now
much better at my job and saw immediate effect and improvements in my
learners and PDI's, all thanks to Nigel. I cannot recommend him enough,
and I will be going back to him for the Fleet course which I am sure will also be delivered to an impeccable standard.
Phil Knight
Freedom School of Motoring
Sunderland, Tyne and Wear
High quality Ordit registered Instructor and Check Test Training
www.freedom-som.com
07881953752 / 0800 8456782
Dave Rigby ADI
Before finding Nigel, I’d already completed Part 1 & 2 with a local ordit registered PAYG trainer, and logged almost 40 hours training. In essence I’d reached the point where I could have theoretically gone on to a pink licence if I chose. However I didn’t feel comfortable with that route, being aware that I had gaps in my knowledge, with many more questions than answers floating round in my head. I’d also been a little disappointed with my own progress.
Nigel’s name had been mentioned to me by another PDI, so I booked an initial assessment session. It took me about 5 minutes to decide this was the guy I wanted to do the remains of my training with.
I could not believe how much I didn’t know, it was quite a wakeup call. Nigel’s knowledge can only be described as encyclopedic, yet the way he puts across that experience is structured, simple and effective. When you’re at your worst, he is at his best, building confidence and knowledge in equal measure, prompting you to ask “intelligent questions” not the obvious ones!
His qualifications are second to none, as is his professional approach and expertise. Add to that a friendly and focused delivery; every training session was something to look forwards to.
Nigel is also one of the few trainers that offer to “sit-in” on the part 3, something that I found an enormous help in me qualifying as an ADI
12 months on and the dreaded “check test” letter arrived, needless to say Nigel, was my first choice. After a couple of sessions Nigel had sharpened up my technique, and got me focused. He knew what grade I had got before I rang him with the news of a ‘5’
I would have no reservations in recommending Nigel to anyone, and have done so! If you are seriously thinking about a career as an ADI, or looking at CPD, to improve yourself and your business, I’m pretty sure Nigel will have the answers.
Dave Rigby ADI (Car)
Dave Rigby Driver training
Staffordshire, Cheshire,
07805 34 24 22.
Jonathon Hodgkinson ADI
Having had training from different driving instructor training companies, it is easy for me to say that the training that one will receive from Nigel Dawson will far out way any others. There are many organisations offering training at all levels of the driver training industry however, they are dreadful and extremely unskilled in comparison to the training that Nigel Dawson can offer. I have experienced this first hand.
If it were not for Nigel I know that I would not have been trained to become the high standard and successful driving instructor and instructor trainer I am today. I achieved the rare grade 6 on my very first Ordit inspection
Why not save your valuable time and money by employing Nigel as your trainer and not wasting it on idiotic companies who cannot compare.
Thanks for all your help Nigel.
Jonathan Hodgkinson - Mint Driving School www.mintdriving.co.uk
Kevin Wise - ADI
When I decided to train as a Driving Instructor I checked out all the national training schools and a number of local ones. I decided to use Excelsior Training on a pay as you go basis as it offered the best value for money and the most qualified trainer. Having now qualified by passing all the examinations at the first attempt (Three months start to finish) I can wholeheartedly recommend Nigel Dawson and Excelsior training if you are looking for a career as an ADI. From the excellent training vehicle with video recording facility to Nigel’s superb one to one tuition the whole package is hard to beat.
Kevin Wise
To Learn in a MINI please call me on 07931 537124 or 01270 659112
Nantwich, Cheshire
www.learninamini.co.uk
Chris Hopkins ADI
Adam Cotton was recommended to me by a former ADI trainee of his.
I am based in Blackpool and after passing the first two parts of my A.D.I licence I purchased a Vehicle to use for training.
After purchasing my Trainee Licence I advertised in a local newsagent for pupils to train with, I had a good response and was soon 'out on my own'.
I felt I was doing fine having got three pupils through there test, I then purchased a 'Part 3 Aid', in this aid was a breakdown of the PST's that I would be tested on. I was horrified to find that what was expected of me on my third and final test was not what I had been Instructing, it wasn't that I didn't know what I was teaching, it was just how I was going about it.
At this point I was felt lost and was lucky enough for somebody to direct me to Adam Cotton.
After a phone call Adam arranged to Come to Blackpool and help me prepare for my part 3. We did around 30 hours or training covering every subject and PST.
After failing my first two Attempts [Nerves] I passed my third and became a very proud ADI.
I can honestly say that if it wasn't for Adam Cotton then I would have given up and walked.
I now understand that being a driving instructor is not just about getting somebody through there test or even teaching them to drive, it is also helping them to believe they can succeed, a large and important part of training a pupil is building their Confidence, and Adam Cotton did exactly that with me.
Adam Cotton would be my first recommendation.
Chris Hopkins
Blackpool
http://www.chris-hopkins.net/
wersiman@msn.com
07742018970
Peter Abbots Trainee DSA Examiner
Having recently trawled through the various phone books and yellow pages looking for a suitable driver trainer/Instructor I came across “Excelsior Training”. Looking at Nigel’s Qualifications along with his experience in instructing in all aspects of driving from basic to advanced I decided to give Nigel a call to ask advise with the intention of booking a number of lessons as I was due to attend a special driving test as part of the driving examiner recruitment with the DSA.
On attending a number of lessons I found Nigel to be professional and friendly at all times and his advise and training throughout my lessons to be nothing more than excellent. As a result of this I successfully passed my special driving test and I can honestly say that although I believed I could drive to a high standard prior to having lessons I do not think I would have passed it without the expert tuition and advice I received.
Without doubt I would not hesitate to recommend “Excelsior Training” to anybody wishing to learn to drive, become an examiner, or simply improve their driving skills in general.
Thank you Nigel
Pete Abbotts 07900 817893
Stoke on Trent
Mark Gough ADI (Managing Director Homers Driving School)
Dear Nigel
I would just like to say thank you for the training we did for my ORDIT test.
It was the second time I have trained with you the first being the Fleet, passing first time on every test and again a first time pass for the ORDIT inspection.
Your training has made a significant difference to my Driving School.
As you know I was already training Driving Instructors and I had a 100% pass rate But with your training I am now obtaining better results for Part 3, my PDI’s are regularly scoring 6’s and taking fewer attempts.
It has also benefited the rest of my Driving School, by CPD training to my Driving Instructors delivering better quality driving Lessons to our learners, increasing further our reputation and referral base. All of this is helping to expand my School.
Thanks again.
Regards
Mark Gough
Managing Director
Homer’s Driving School
http://www.homersdrivingschool.co.uk/
Johnny Frank ADI
I attended the Excelsior Fleet Diploma in June 2008 and thoroughly enjoyed it, despite all the hard work it was well worth it, when I was given grade 6 on my first fleet check test.
I would happily recommend the course to any ADI hoping to move into fleet work or just looking to improve their skills as an instructor
Pronto pass now offer training for all drivers from learners to advanced, I offer fleet training courses throughout the UK and ADI training for parts 1 2 and 3.
http://www.prontopass.co.uk/
Johnny Frank
07817 403078
Mark Davies ADI
My name is Mark Davies and I qualified as an Approved Driving Instructor thanks to Nigel. I qualified at the first attempt on all the exams. Nigel has excellent training methods.
I chose Nigel as he had all the relevant experience and qualifications and came highly recommended.
http://www.drivermarks.co.uk/
Call or text 07932 963 099
I just wanted to say what a fantastic instructor Adam was to me. I trained with Adam on parts 2 and 3 ADI exams and would not have done it without him. He was a dedicated instructor to me and also a good friend during and outside tuition. He was always there and always had time for me when I needed support. I am now a fully qualified ADI and currently setting up my own business "Dawn's Driving Tuition"
So a very big thank you again Adam, and good luck for the future in everything you do!
Dawn Hodgeson
Padiham, nr Burnley
Lancs
tel 07745153316
email libra9597@hotmail.com
Jonathan Smith DSA Fleet ADI
I spent an enjoyable few days doing the fleet diploma course with Nigel. I found the course extremely useful developing my own drive, commentary drive and coaching skills which I have been able to use with both experienced drivers and learners.
Jonathan Smith ADI
Drive Me Bananas School of Motoring Edinburgh
http://www.drivemebananas.co.uk
Paul Maidwell - ADI
I contacted Nigel in a panic. I had just booked my third attempt at the part 3 ADI test after failing my 2nd attempt the previous day. I gave Nigel just 7 days to fit me in for an 8 hour rescue session, which he managed by rearranging his schedule and squeezing me in the day before my test. His expertise was immediately needed as I had huge holes in my knowledge of the test structure, through lack of guidance to that point, Nigel was 100% committed to giving me as much chance of passing as he could given the short amount of time and by the end of the day I felt that I had learned more in that 1 session than I had in my previous 60 hours training with my original instructor. He managed to turn around the damage that had been done by my previous training and in such a short space of time made me feel like I could actually pass my part 3, and knew what was needed of me to achieve that goal. I took my test the next day and passed comfortably; using Nigel’s training to guide me through the preset test. I honestly would not have passed without Nigel’s help and for that I will be forever grateful.
Thank you
Paul Maidwell
07841 446234
Coventry
Mark Lyons ADI
Hi Adam no problem in using me as a testimonial. The training I had enabled me to pass my part 3 first time without a trainee licence, and I found you very professional, easy to get on with and a perfectionist. That gave me confidence to treat the dreaded senior examiner as a pupil and not someone to be feared!
Mark Lyons
Plymouth
email-marcusjl570@sky.com
07828266897
Jon Meddings - ADI
I first contacted Nigel last year to help prepare me for my RoSPA advanced driving test. The training was spot on, very professional and Nigel knows everything there is to know about advanced driving principles and the format of the test.
I contacted Nigel again recently to help prepare me for my upcoming Fleet Check Test which I had opted to do as a role play. Again the training was excellent, I was unsure as to how the role play check test would be carried out, no need to worry though as Nigel’s training soon sorted this out and I went in for my check test feeling quietly confident and well prepared.
I would definitely recommend Excelsior for all ADI and driver training. The results speak for themselves. I passed the RoSPA advanced test 1st time and was awarded Gold.
The fleet check test also went well, I was graded a 6 and got some very positive feedback from the examiner.
Jon Meddings (Drive4u Stafford)
contact@driving-4u.co.uk
Julie Hancock ADI
I narrowed down my search of local ADI’s to Nigel. In my opinion I had chosen the most dedicated, trustworthy, highly experienced ADI in the area. Nigel is fully committed to being more than just a driving instructor; I am honored to have passed all 3 exams 1st time within a 9 month period, thanks to his patient and professional attitutude. I learnt to drive in a new VW Golf, which he is very proud of!!
I am now an independent driving instructor, and loving my job!
Julie Hancock
Tel me: 01782 533560
Email me: juelcontrol@hotmail.com
www.juelcontrol.co.uk
Paul Leese
My name is Paul Leese I qualified as an approved Driving Instructor in November 2007 thanks to Nigel, as I was struggling with Part 3 of the exam. Unfortunately I failed my 1st 2 attempts, even though I had spent over £3000 on training with a national company. After a training session with Nigel I realized the massive gaps in my knowledge, and I only had 12 weeks before my final attempt. Nigel has an excellent manner and technique and guided me in the right direction. I have two reasons to be grateful, one to the work colleague who recommended him and two, to the man himself.
I am now looking forward to my career as a driving instructor with thanks to Nigel.
Regards Paul Leese
Bob Bottrell ADI
I came across Nigel’s company when searching for an alternative trainer having failed my first attempt at Part 3. I had basically gone into the exam blind not fully understanding what the examiner expects. After only a couple of sessions with Nigel I felt renewed confidence and the components of the Part 3 test became clearer. From the outset I was impressed with Nigel’s professionalism and personal presentation. This extended to his immaculate car!
After some hard work by Nigel and myself, I went on to pass the exam at the next attempt. Proof indeed that my decision to change trainer was justified. For anyone looking for either the full training package or just some rescue support, I would not hesitate to recommend Excelsior Training.
Bob Bottrell
07896 982827
Cannock Staffs
Brian Hughes Fleet ADI
I have known Nigel of Excelsior for numerous years and likewise have many years of professional driving experience behind me. The Fleet Driver training course which I have recently completed with Excelsior was a fantastic experience; it was delivered with professionalism and confidence. During the five day course various skills were utilised including; enhanced driver training techniques out on the road and a theoretical approach to improved behaviours and taking a more responsible attitude.
Iain Moore - ADI
After struggling with my Part 3 test I contacted Nigel Dawson. First impressions were excellent with a brief conversation, my failings were very clearly highlighted and aims for our first lesson were set. The first lesson was focused and professional, Nigel and his Car were well presented, more learning took place in a two hour session than nearly 20 hours with my previous trainers.
Nigel sets a high standard which is easily achieved with commitment; he draws on his experience as an instructor, ADI trainer and fleet trainer to give focused and realistic simulations of the part 3 test and beyond. Nigel sits in on many part 2 and 3 tests and therefore can replicate the SE with accuracy. He offers focused simple analysis and remedial action in relation to my tuition.
Add to this a paper progress record allowing simple recaps and key points to be referred to and the in car video system was also superb for recapping too. In total I received over 10 hours of tuition for my Part 3, and it was worth every single penny. I wish I had done all of my training with Nigel.
His qualifications and expertise are clear from his teaching along with a professional and friendly approach. I passed my part three with Nigel sitting in January 2007; I would recommend anyone who wants to develop their skills as an ADI to contact Nigel before they contact ANYONE else!
Since I have taken some check test training with Nigel, which again was professional and very helpful. I am working for a local franchise, earning the money I want and enjoying the job thanks to Nigel’s help, advice and support.
Iain Moore ADI, BSc (Hons) Product Design
07999 99 2141
Cheers Nigel
Iain Moore ADI, BSc
Learnmoore driver training
http://www.learnmooredriving.co.uk/
Rowan Kitton - ADI
I undertook part 3 ADI training with Nigel Dawson having already passed parts 1 and 2. The training I received was very professional at a pace to suit my ability and needs and I passed first time. I would utilize the services of Nigel for any further driver training requirements and have no hesitation in recommending his services to all potential driving instructors.
Rowan Kitton ADI
Congleton, Cheshire
Tel: 07834 403249
Anita Turner - Fleet ADI
I first met Nigel in 2005 when I was in need of some good quality check test training, Nigel didn’t let me down.
He helped me to believe in myself, as I was going through a very sticky patch in my driving career, in fact he gave me so much confidence that I felt able to undertake his Fleet Training Course, which was very well structured and very enjoyable.
Nigel is a very professional and well presented ADI trainer who has excellent communication skills. He is able to give good sound advice to people, if ever I hear of anybody requiring any training I do not hesitate to mention Nigel’s name.
I had my fleet Check Test in June, 2007 and with the help of Nigel was able to achieve a grade ‘5’ which I was more that pleased with. I am currently undertaking The Excelsior ‘Train the Trainers course’.
Keep up the good work Nigel!
Anita Turner
07971 538872
asmdrivertrainingstafford.co.uk
Lee Knowles - Fleet ADI
Dear Nigel, Just a quick note to say thank you for the wonderful course I attended at the beginning of the month. I have finally caught up with all the learners and started working towards getting some fleet work and getting on the SAFED scheme. I also quickly knocked together a site
http://www.theonlydrivertraining.com I really enjoyed the Fleet diploma course and have now purchased the books to do the Dip DI course. Obviously your enthusiasm for learning and becoming a better instructor has rubbed off on me. I have also applied to ROSPA for membership and I’m waiting to be assessed to take the ROSPA test. I felt I learnt a lot on the course and having an extra badge sitting in your windscreen is also an added bonus. The DSA were rather quick in sending the badge back not sure if that’s because there are not that many fleet instructors or that the fleet department is far more efficient than the ADI department? The accommodation you recommended was superb the breakfasts were good what I had of them and the rooms were spotless and on the whole a very pleasant experience. Although it was hard work (probably down to me and hills) I really feel as though I achieved something and had fun along the way. Thanks again. See you soon for some check test training.
Yours sincerely, Lee Knowles.
John Lloyd - ADI
I would highly recommend Nigel for check test training; he was very willing to part with his knowledge. He totally prepared me for my check test, advising on the type of pupil to take, sitting in and watching me instruct the pupil I was going to take, to prepare the pupil! He also advised on a suitable lesson plan and instructional techniques. Without Nigel’s help I would not have achieved the required standard. The in-car video system was also a bonus allowing me to self analyse my instruction at a later date.
John Lloyd ADI
Newcastle-Under-Lyme, Staffordshire.
Tel: 07752 864597
Anita Turner ADI
After training with Nigel for my Fleet qualification badge / Fleet check test and Cardington test, I went on to complete Excelsior’s ‘Train the Trainer course’.
The course enabled me to plan/ structure and deliver a complete training course of my own. I qualified at the first attempt for the DSA ORDIT register for both premises and Tutor inspections. I am now delivering courses for potential Driving Instructors throughout the Midlands.
Many thanks Nigel the course was excellent, and I now have the ‘3’ badges on the screen!
Anita Turner
DSA ADI (Fleet/Ordit 1 2 and 3/C and G 7307/Cardington ‘A’)
ASM Driving School (Stafford and surrounding areas)
http://asmdrivertrainingstafford.co.uk/
High quality ADI training in 09 BMW 1 series training car
07971 538872
Saj Khan - ADI
Nigel your training was spot on it really helped me with my part 3. The ‘college’ I initially trained with were very unhelpful and the training locations very inconvenient. Your training was much more in depth and understandable. It was a great help in my preparation and qualification. Overall I would give you 10 out of 10!
Saj Khan ADI
Stoke-on-Trent
Tel: 07747 784339
Mark Lloyd -ADI
I first met Nigel when he was working part-time for a large national training company. Knowing him like I do now, I would have gone straight to him for my ADI training. His teaching enabled me to pass my part 2, and set me in good stead for my part 3. Circumstances prevented me from teaching within the first six months of qualifying, and when my check test was due, my first thought was to contact Nigel for some check test preparation - I can honestly say that without Nigel’s help I would not be teaching now. If you are thinking of training to be an ADI, Nigel’s your man!!
Mark Lloyd ADI
Northwich Cheshire
Paul Heeks – ADI
My Part 3 training was carried out by Nigel Dawson. I would wholeheartedly commend his knowledgeable, clear and above all honest teaching style. He clearly showed no hesitation in going the extra mile to generate success.
With no previous like experience I was successful in Part 3, at the first attempt, within 3 months.
During the process of establishing a successful independent driving school, the value and quality of Nigel’s coaching and training was ever apparent.
The package he offers is, in my opinion, excellent and extensive, and is then compounded with the personal attention of an expert in Nigel himself.
I would, without hesitation, recommend Nigel as a trainer to anyone thinking of following a career in driving instruction.
I volunteered as a PDI on Nigel’s first ORDIT inspection and now it has gone full circle! As I recently qualified at the first attempt on the DSA ORDIT register and now I offer ADI training in Crewe and the surrounding areas at parts 1 2 and 3.
Many thanks Nigel for the excellent training.
Ability Driving Instruction
Alsager, Cheshire.
http://abilitydrive.co.uk
Telephone: (01270) 874351
Mobile: 07977 204533
E-mail: paulheeks@fsmail.net
Bill Aston ADI
Prior to embarking on my training to become a driving instructor I looked at various options available within the various established training schools. Like any decision you make the actual individual counts more than the company you select and with Nigel I could not have chosen better. He was always on time, well presented and very thorough in his whole approach and without doubt helped me achieve my goal. The training schools seem to only offer training as complete packages at a fixed fee for each element rather than to suit the individual’s needs. Without doubt the training packages that I believe Nigel now offers give the individual the most cost effective route to becoming a driving instructor with guaranteed quality training.
Bill Aston
Approved Driving Instructor
Blythe Bridge, Staffordshire.
Tel: 07890 607493
Shazad Akbar ADI
Nigel helped me through my part 3 training, the main difference were his different training methods, concentrating on the instructional techniques and core competencies. Not just pre-set tests. The attention to detail is so important at part three and Nigel really helped with this. I was also able to play the session back on tape later as there was loads to remember!
Shazad Akbar ADI
Stoke-On-Trent
Tel: 07929 334527
Ben Jeffrey - ADI
Nigel was recommended to me by a fellow trainee, the training I received was well structured and thought out. I was able to pass my part 1 2 and 3 first time because of the high standard of training I received. I found Nigel to be very reliable and knowledgable. I would highly recommend Nigel to anyone thinking of pursuing a career as an ADI.
Nigel was the first person I thought off when the check test invite dropped through my door, and suffice to say I had no problems delivering a quality check test session.
Ben Jeffrey ADI
Newcastle under Lyme
Tel 07725 992522
Andy Downham - ADI
After completing 40 hours with a local driving school, I knew I still needed more training so I contacted Nigel who immediately fitted me in to his ever busy diary.
After an initial assessment he restructured my training program to accommodate those all important instructional techniques and core competences .Nigel passes on his wealth of knowledge and experience in a very calm and relaxed manner which is the best way to learn new skills and build your confidence.
I found the in car video a real benefit for that all important personal revision .Nigel was behind me 100% throughout my instructor training therefore I would recommend his services to anyone who want to learn, and I can look forward to meeting him again for CPD training.
Best wishes
Andy Downham ADI
Crewe, Cheshire.
07771 631797
www.drivingschoolcrewe.co.uk
Karen Diesner – ADI
I paid for 20 hours of ADI part 3 training with a large national company. Having completed that, I still could not instruct to the level I wanted to, and luckily found Nigel on the Driver Training Today forum.
Nigel taught me all the basics again in a way I found very easy to understand. He has a great sense of humour (which you must need if you’re training instructors!) and even greater patience. The video recordings we made were great for revision afterwards.
I am glad to say I passed my Part 3 test first time, and I attribute this in no small part to Nigel’s extra help. I now use his methods with my pupils and find they understand my instructions very easily too. I have no reservation in recommending Nigel to anyone, whether PDI or Learner.
Karen Diesner, LDC ADI
http://www.kd-driving.co.uk/
Sandbach, Cheshire
07794 785356