Observer on Test – DSA notes from consultative meeting – comment Bedford driving instructors

THE PROPOSAL that candidates should be required to take an observer with

them on their practical car driving test from October 2010 has generated a

great deal of debate.

DSA has received comments from a variety of

stakeholders and has met with the ADI Consultative Groups and the Public

and Commercial Services Union (PCS). We have listened carefully to all the

views expressed. We remain convinced that an observer sitting in on test will

enhance the learning process, which, in turn, will provide road safety benefits.

We recognise, however, that there are valid reasons why an approach based

on education and incentivisation might be preferable to mandating through

regulation at this stage.

will ask all candidates if they would like their driving instructor (or another

observer, such as a parent, guardian or friend who has taught the candidate

to drive) to sit in on their test. The examiner will then ask the candidate if they

would like their instructor be present for the test result and de-brief. This will

allow candidates to take advantage of the opportunities available to support

their ongoing learning and development, but will leave the final decision with

them.

From the feedback received on this issue we also recognise that a full review

of the minimum test vehicle (MTV) for Cat B tests should be carried out.

However, a mandatory change to the MTV would be a long process and we

want you to work with us on this. In the meantime, we will seek to develop a

set of guidelines to help to deal with the health and safety issues raised by

some of the vehicles now in use. This will ensure that we can continue to

maintain the integrity of the test through quality assurance and check testing.

We want to work in partnership with the driver training profession to help

candidates get the most from their training and from their practical test

experience. We want candidates to understand that driving instructors and

driving examiners are professional experts working together to help them to

be safe and responsible drivers with the overall aim of improving road safety.

We hope that you will work with us to support and promote this approach by,

encouraging your members to always:

 

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learning and development

 

 

Source: Smart Driving website

Comments please from driving instructors and driving schools who are BADDIA (Bedford and District Driving Instructors Association) members giving driving lessons, Pass Plus, a2om BTEC in Driving Science, advanced lessons, automatic lessons, disabled lessons, towing lessons, refresher courses, motorway lessons, fleet training, instructor training, in preparation for driving tests or driver improvement in the Bedford area