The DVSA have just released the latest driving instructor statistics for the industry in the UK. The register has declined by just shy of 1000 from March 2020 to June 2020. The actual numbers are 39,531 registered ADI's in March compared to 38,690 in June.
In times like these (not that we've had times like these before), perhaps it would be better to say, in times of economic downturn, perhaps there will be a natural decline of instructors who were thinking of retiring and this slump has 'sealed the deal' for them. It is tricky because there is a great opportunity for earning right now, the earnings potential is extremely high. But the concern for all is the potential for a future lockdown. How much of this talk relates to social restraint as opposed to work restraint? There has been introduced fines for the lack of mask wearing in taxi's by passengers but not the taxi drivers, so it might be the case that mask wearing on driving lessons becomes mandatory. This is especially relevant to us as examiners are conducting driving tests with the use of seat covers, masks, plastic shields, gloves and plenty of disinfectant. It should be said, the ladies and gents conducting these tests are doing a fine job and are a great credit to their organisation.
The ultimate decider for us will inevitably be the announcements from the DVSA. The threat of being struck off the register should driving training be taking place without masks being worn, is simply too great for many ADI's to risk.
BIG TOM Driving School has had no issues to date (long may it continue). We have adopted a thorough set of protocols and our customers are complying with them 100%. There has not been a single cancelled session since the re-opening from lockdown on 04/07/2020; almost three months now. But this is no time to be complacent, and our covid-safe practices remain in place.
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