Become The Learner

Inspire Instructor Training Podcast

• Episode Theme:
• Stepping into the learner’s role to sharpen your instructor skills, and practical tactics for easing driving-related anxiety.
• Why Play Learner?
• Gain fresh perspective on your own training style
• Spot best (and worst) teaching habits to adopt or ditch
• Try something outside your comfort zone—gym theory, workshops, etc.
• On-the-Move vs Pullover Corrections:
• If safe and the student can process, correct as you go
• If they’re distracted or the situation is complex, pull over for focused feedback
• Proactive Support Level:
• Give clear options (“I’ll prompt you for the next three starts…”) instead of “Jump in if I’m wrong”
• Use scales or student-chosen checkpoints to quantify confidence
• Managing Driving Anxiety (3 Pillars):

1. Physical Tension (arms/shoulders) → “Lower your suitcases” relaxation drill
2. Racing Heart → “Smell flowers / blow bubbles” breathing
3. Frozen Feeling → ABC technique (Acknowledge–Build evidence–Calm strategies)

• Quick Wins:
• Reframe “anxiety” as “uncomfortable” for more control
• Use scaling (1 = Zen guru…10 = straightjacket) to track progress
• Offer word banks or flash-cards to help students label feelings
• Takeaway:
• Continual CPD gives you a toolbox of techniques—mix and match them to meet each learner’s needs.