Meet the team- John​

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John: Driving instructor in Upminster

With over 36 years of driving experience, John is not only a DVSA-approved ADI driving instructor but also a serving Metropolitan Police officer. Being one of our most experienced driving instructors, John’s experience spans manual, automatic, electric vehicles, high-performance cars, and even HGVs.  

John believes that learning to drive should be an enjoyable and empowering experience. His recorded lessons with GoPro and dashcam footage help pupils track their progress and refine their skills effectively.  

John: Driving instructor in Upminster 1
John: Driving instructor in Upminster 2

Hear from John

My introduction

My name is John, and I’m a part-time ADI driving instructor as well as a serving Metropolitan Police officer. I live on the outskirts of Upminster and have been driving for 36 years.  

My early driving journey

I passed my driving test on 24th November 1988 at 12:10pm. at Goodmayes Driving Test Centre on my first attempt—a date I’ll never forget, nor will my instructor at Leigh’s Driving School in Beckton. At the time, lessons cost just £6.50 each, and I passed after 11 lessons at 17.   

Becoming an ADI

In June 2005, I became a DVSA-approved ADI driving instructor. Over the years, I’ve taught in various vehicles, including diesel manuals during my first 12 years, fully electric vehicles, and now automatic transmission cars. Currently, I use a petrol BMW 1 Series M Sport.  

My driving experience

I have extensive driving experience across most European countries, the United States, and Australia. My licenses include motorbike, car, 7.5 Tons, HGV 1 & 2, minibus, and coach. I am also an approved police driver and a Pass Plus registered instructor.  

In the early 1990s, I raced hot rods and bangers at Arena Essex Raceway and participated in track days with high-performance cars. Additionally, I offer trailer tuition, further enhancing my diverse driving expertise.  

My passion for teaching

There’s nothing I enjoy more than teaching someone to drive and passing on my knowledge. My first pupil, Richard B, passed his test at Goodmayes on his first attempt, and from that moment, I was hooked on teaching.  

I love seeing the transformation in my pupils—from nervous beginners to confident, skilled drivers. Watching them relax, enjoy driving, and gain independence is incredibly rewarding. I even had a pupil who became an ADI instructor.  

Test day advice

Test day is always a mix of nerves and excitement, but I have complete confidence in my pupils. Seeing their joy when they pass, whether it’s a fist pump, screams, tears of joy, or a tight hug, makes all the effort worthwhile.  

The day I stop smiling at their success will be the day I retire. There’s nothing more fulfilling than seeing my former pupils confidently driving independently on the road.  

Specialised tuition

I primarily teach in the Hornchurch Driving Test Centre area and offer fully recorded lessons. My tuition vehicle is equipped with front and rear dashcams and optional external and internal GoPro cameras. These recordings allow pupils to review their lessons and improve their skills more effectively. 

Some reviews for John

Take charge of the wheel!

Call 07957 458980 or contact info@alfiesdrivingschool.com to reserve your slot and learn from John in Upminster.

Contact

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23rd Dec '24
3rd Jan '24

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