Intensive learner driving courses

[Electrochem]

Has anyone had experience of these courses?

A relative want to learn this way but, I think taking the normal route is the better option.

Your views would be much appreciated.

[someonesgirl]

they can be a but hit and miss really. I had had about 20-30 lessons over the years as i kept running out of money so when i had saved up a few years later i paid a whack of money out and did an intensive course. I did 4 hours a day for 5 days and then they want to put you in for your test. My instructor was an old man who was rubbish and shouted at me a lot. I felt totally under-confident and not ready to sit a test. They told me that if i failed the test i would end up forking out a further �90 in total to re-sit, as i'd have to pay for hire of the car etc... so i decided to have some more lessons.......but this never happened as i had no money left!! 5 years later i learned over 3 months with a reccommended instuctor (by a friend) and passed 2nd time! (He was really good with me) It depends on the instructor and how confident you are. My boyfriend had also had lessons in the past and did an intensive course that his work paid for and he passed 2nd time. (he is a really confident person when it comes to things like that tho, hes one of those who thinks he can do it even when he cant!) I would go for gradual learning as it doesnt have to take forever and its practice getting used to everything thats the key to passing......if you do it intensively you often dont feel youve had enough experience behind the wheel.

[tiggerwoo]

I totally agree!!!! I am a recently retired driving instructor and would not recommend these courses. If you are a complete novice it is almost impossible to pass the test at the end of the course unless you you are a particularly talented individual and even if you did as in previous answer...experience is the key..and these courses can never give you enough of that.The best thing to do is shop around for a well established well thought of instructor.Ask them what grade they are.You should be looking for an instructor with Grade 6...and ask to see proof or call the DSA to verify (as some of them tell lies).All instructors should be able to offer you more than one lesson a week or 2 hourly lessons if you wish in order that you can learn at a faster pace.However a complete novice should stick to 1 hour lessons initially (multiples of) as it is impossible to concentrate for that length of time and the second hour is often wasted making unecessary mistakes.A good instructor will be able to advise you with regard to length and frequency of lessons. You are learning a skill for life and it is important to remember that there are no shortcuts to becoming a safe responsible and skilled driver.
The very best of luck to you and above all.....enjoy it!!!

[Electrochem]

Thanks for the replies so far. I learnt to drive in the dim and distant past and I feel that there is too much to take in on these intensive courses.