Neil Bayliss was my first and only instructor. When I started to learn how to drive I didn't have any driving experience. Despite this Neil told me that in four months I would be ready for my test. I had some doubt, as did my friends. With their experience of learning to drive they thought it not possible. However, four months later I took my first test. Unfortunately I failed with one serious and three minors. In this situation many instructors would continue to give you lessons and collect your money, but Neil said “you don't need lessons, maybe a couple before the next test” I was impressed by his honesty. Any way, my second test was booked for eight weeks later and I passed with one minor. I think this says a lot about his method of teaching. During every lesson he pushes all the time, picking up on every error, and with the teaching programme doesn't settle on one aspect too long. He moves from one section to another, returning in part to sections that are not perfect. By the end of each lesson you make progress. I would describe his course as intensive. Neil doesn't give you chance to hesitate on the road, he keeps saying “make a decision, you can not afford to be indecisive on the road”. The longer you take to make a decision, the higher his tone, to a point where you feel pressure and at the same time sorry for yourself. You think “oh Neil, give me credit, I'm only beginner, still learning”. Of course he gives you credit, but the first dozen lessons you don't feel it. Not till later in the course, when you became more experienced and aware what's going on around you on the road that you feel the confidence of a verbal pat on the back with “well done”. He is patient with your mistakes, but will always remind you. If you forget to check your mirrors he will point it out straight away. If you forget your mirrors a second time, he will point it out again and again, until it becomes your habit to check your mirrors.

Nadya Wood