Better Driver Training

Driving School in Kent and South East London

Better Driver Training is a driving school based in Kent and South East London that provides driving lessons and other driver training services. The company was founded by Chris Bensted and Ian Brett, who previously ran 'CB's Driving School' and 'Gears Driver Training', respectively. Both had accumulated experience in local driving schools and decided to join forces to create a proposition focused on personalised instruction.

The school presents itself as an option that adapts to each student's needs, with instructors working in different areas of Kent and South London. Its offer ranges from beginner driving to specific programmes for experienced drivers.

Driver Training Services

The service catalogue includes:

• Driving lessons: for all levels and abilities, with the option of automatic vehicles.
• Trailer training (B+e): aimed at those who need a trailer licence, with a free licence assessment.
• Taxi test preparation: training to pass local authority tests.
• Young Driver Challenge (11-17): programme to start driving from age 11, based at Bromley College, Kent.
• Au pair assessments: UK orientation sessions and driving assessment, with reports available on request.
• Driving instructor training: preparation to obtain ADI (Approved Driving Instructor) certification with trainers registered on the DVSA ORDIT scheme.
• D1 Minibus: training and testing to drive minibuses.

Geographic Coverage

Better Driver Training operates in Kent and South East London. The areas it serves include Orpington, Bromley, Beckenham, Sidcup, Sevenoaks, Tonbridge, Tunbridge Wells, Dunton Green, Riverhead, Borough Green, Wrotham, Ditton, Aylesford, Maidstone, West Kingsdown, Hadlow, Paddock Wood, Coxheath, Headcorn, Staplehurst, Marden and East Peckham. The school maintains an areas covered page to consult detailed coverage.

Teaching Approach and Industry Involvement

The company states that its method focuses on the individual needs of each student. According to its presentation, instructors receive ongoing training and are regularly assessed to maintain the standards required by the DVSA. In addition, the school notes that its lessons include theory and practical preparation, and that its standards aim to exceed the minimum requirements of the regulatory body.

The founders, Chris Bensted and Ian Brett, are actively involved in the driver training sector. The company states that they attend consultations and maintain communication with the DVSA and other bodies. They also state that Chris Bensted is a partner of the Highways England steering group, and that both have appeared in media such as Sky News, BBC News, BBC Radio, ITV News and Gogglebox, as well as specialised publications. The school collaborated in the creation of the DrivingHub website, developed together with Highways England, DIA, DVSA, MSA and ADINJC, among others.

Training for Novice and Experienced Drivers

The driving school offers training for drivers who have already obtained their licence, with refresher sessions, parking practice and UK orientation. It also provides lessons for novice drivers who wish to improve their safety and confidence. The company highlights that, since the legal change in June 2018, students accompanied by an ADI instructor in a dual-control vehicle can drive on motorways as part of the learning programme.

For those looking to update their skills, the school provides information on changes to the driving test and support resources through its website.