Don't judge, listen

Try not to assume anything when speaking with pupils.  To have meaningful working relationships there has to be an element of honest communication because without it, honestly, where are we?  People drive on public roads without provisional licences or insurance.  People practice in private cars without L plates displayed or even being supervised.  There can be many reasons why people drive around illegally, and it can be very enlightening to have a relationship in which these conversations take place.  

I have found that often there is a misguided belief that is deep-seated within the pupil's mind. Usually, when I listen to accounts, I find it pays just to shut up and listen because the more you hear, the more you can begin to understand why a pupil acts in the way they do.  It could be relating to family upbringing or financial considerations or perceptions of being a victim to either the police or insurance companies.
  

When you qualify to an ADI and get that green badge, you will have not only worked hard in the process, but you will have jumped through many legal hoops such as eyesight/medical requirements, DBS clearance and insurance on your driving school car.  We tend to get into this mindset that as we have accepted and complied with the requirements, then everyone else does as well.  Not so.  Driving instructors do fall foul of the law as do pupils.  It is not possible to supervise them when they do their private practice, but we should advise them of why the requirements are in place as they may have become complacent and no longer identify with potential consequences.

I had reason to ring a driving instructor association helpdesk a couple of years ago about the need to see a provisional driving licence physically.  I have sought guidance on tax questions before with the Federation of Small Businesses which I am a member.  I think nothing of asking a tyre specialist to check out my driving school car tyres.  None of us is the fountain of all knowledge at all times, and it is essential to have a supporting circle of expertise that you can access around your day to day business.  

This is not a time for obfuscation; our pupils pay us to receive sound, accurate advice.  Make every effort though to avoid immediately taking the moral high ground and listen intently because it may be possible to change beliefs with some well balanced and delivered advice.