Thinking about becoming a driving instructor – or already supporting PDIs through their training? Then this episode is essential listening.

In this eye-opening edition of Motormouth, we go beyond the sales pitch to uncover the reality of PDI and ADI training in the UK. Because not all training is created equal – some is outstanding, some is poor, and far too much is simply average.

Hosted by Graham Hooper, Head of Driver Training Development at the DIA, this panel discussion brings together some of the most experienced and respected voices in the industry:

• Kathy Higgins – Owner of a multi-car driving school, NDORS Training Quality Monitor, and Secretary of the Institute of Master Tutors of Driving (IMTD)
• Andrew Love – Head Trainer at Let’s Instruct Driving Instructor Academy and experienced ORDIT-registered ADI Trainer
• Mirza Taufiq Baig – Founder of Smile School of Motoring, CPD specialist, and Grade A (51/51) ADI
• Graham Hooper – DIA lead trainer and ADI development expert

They tackle the questions many don’t want to answer:

• Who is really training you – and are they qualified to do so?
• What should proper instructor training include – and what’s missing from many courses?
• Are you buying a job, or building a business?
• And what’s hidden in that contract you’re about to sign?

Whether you’re just starting out or mentoring future instructors, this honest and insightful discussion could save you time, money – and a lot of unnecessary frustration.

Diversity and inclusion shouldn’t be a “special topic” in our profession – it should be embedded in the very fabric of driver and rider training.

Yet many voices remain underrepresented, and barriers still exist for both trainers and pupils from marginalised groups.

In this powerful and honest discussion, our panel explores the realities of working in an industry that hasn’t always reflected the diverse communities it serves. From challenges with representation and recruitment to bias in training and career progression, this episode lifts the lid on issues that have long been overlooked.

Featuring:

• Kenny Lawrence – Founder, KL Driver Training
• Samia Rashid – Founder, Evolve Driver Training
• Tommy Sandhu – Director, Smart Learner Driving School
• Carly Brookfield – CEO, DIA
• Graham Hooper – Head of Driver Training Development, DIATogether, they share candid insights, personal experiences, and practical ideas for building a more inclusive and equitable profession, without tokenism, without division, and without compromising on standards or quality.

We also hear from trainers working on the ground, who describe the very real challenges faced by those entering the industry: language barriers, cultural bias, lack of support, and a widespread call for meaningful change. From DVSA recruitment to equality training and a better understanding of the lived experiences of both pupils and instructors, this episode highlights the urgent need for action.

Whether you’re a trainer, PDI, examiner, or someone working to make the industry more inclusive, this episode offers a vital starting point for progress.

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“If we want inclusivity, we also want it to be about somebody being there because they’re a recognised expert in training, not tokenism.”
— Carly Brookfield

Legendarily loquacious DIA CEO Carly, and our new Head of Driver Training Development, Graham Hooper (known equally for his frank and forthright views), will be your hosts.

This month they’ll be joined by Former DVSA Assistant chief Driving Examiner for ADI Policy Chris Howes, who’ll share his insights from his time inside the agency—being no stranger to the challenges and issues it faces in delivering testing!

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Chris Howes - Former DVSA Assistant chief Driving Examiner for ADI Policy
Chris is a former respected Driving Test and ADI Examiner Trainer. Before his recent retirement, Chris was DVSA Assistant chief Driving Examiner for ADI Policy, and had been the Supervising Staff Instructor responsible for managing all Driving Examiner training. Chris brings a wealth of insider insight into the inner workings of DVSA.

Carly Brookfield - Chief Executive, DIA
Carly is the legendarily loquacious CEO of the DIA, known for her sharp insights and fearless advocacy for driver and rider trainers. With a background in leading membership organisations across multiple sectors, she brings strategic vision and strong industry voice to the table—never afraid to ask tough questions or challenge the norm.

Graham Hooper - Head of Driver Training Development, DIA
Graham has worked in driver education since 1995 and is known for his coaching-led, customer-focused approach to training. An ORDIT-registered trainer with extensive qualifications in coaching and instruction, he has trained hundreds of ADIs and PDIs across the UK. At the DIA, Graham leads the development and delivery of practical, behaviour-focused training to support the driver training profession and improve road safety. With a deep commitment to CPD, Graham’s work continues to shape the future of high-quality instruction in our industry.