Based in Derry, NI we offer training on vehicles from lorries to mopeds, for operators from beginner to advanced instructor level. Our fully qualified, expert instructors use a thoroughly tested lesson plan based approach to ensure that nothing is missed during training. Maximising your chances of a positive result on test day.
Our director Jim Doyle has this to say:
“Some one will need to help you develop the skills you need to drive daily or maybe even become a driving instructor. This takes someone with experience, knowledge and skill. We at Foyle School of Driving have the right team in place to give the training you need. We specialize in each of the areas we provide. Click on the Training Services link for a full list of the services we provide.” “I have been successfully teaching driving instructors for over seventeen years. I specialize in all the qualifying parts of the exams, including check test and recovery training. All of the training is on an individual basis and tailored to suit the needs of the person that I am training.” “I look forward to dealing with you soon!”
Qualifications
Our instructors are all encouraged to undergo continuous training and development in order to stay abreast of the latest developments in driving legislation and to provide the best possible service to our students. Jims impressive list of qualifications include:
DOE Approved instructor, Grade 6.
Road transport Industry Approved Large Goods Instructor
DSA Qualified LGV/PCV Instructor
Independent Training Standards Scheme and Register, Examiner/Instructor, Cat one
Tutor Cat 4 (for 40 Categories of plant machinery )
Certificate of Professional Competence for Transporting Goods by road
We currently have no facility for online booking, however if you’d like to pay via credit or debit card or using your paypal account,this can be done here. Please arrange bookings in advance.
Trying to find a suitable driving instructor trainer developed into a mindfield of contracts and large cheques, until i was recommended to contact Jim at Foyle School of Driving. After meeting Jim, he explained the exam process and the input required on my behalf in great detail. I was able to pay for my training on a weekly basis, with no contract or obligation. When the training got underway he provided structured, acheieveable goals with feedback and encouragement. Each training session was tailored to meet my needs and i am glad to have chosen Jim as my trainer, as he has helped me to develop essential skills and allowing me to teach pupils to drive. I would highly recommend Jim as a trainer as his knowledge, experience and application to me as an individual was invaluable to my career.
Joe Brolly
07902024915
Note from Jim: Joe has become a very good friend, a pleasure to teach. And has developed as an instructor and person his awareness and people skills are second to none, he adapts well to the needs of the pupil and is a valuable asset to Foyle school of driving.” Well Done Joe”
1. Fill in the Provisional Application DL1 (NI) tick box(s) in shaded area of Section 4. This is to gain you provisional entitlement for the category in which you wish to learn.
2. Fill in Medical Report DLM1. (One medical at this stage will cover all additional categories so best to add more or all at this stage, this will save you money as one Medical will cost around £80.
3. Send DL1 and DLM1 plus both parts of your licence to Coleraine. This is Free of Charge. (If possible take a copy of your licence to keep for your own records).
4. Theory Application
Theory Test – £35.00
Hazard Perception Test – £15.00
Both tests can be booked for the same day but a 2 hr gap MUST be taken between tests.
Ians keep in stock Theory/Hazard books and DVDs.
The Official Theory Test for Driver of Large Vehicles £15.99
DVD Hazard Perception Test £10.99
5. Call Ians and we will give you 1st class tuition.
4 Day Course (9am-5pm)
Test on 5th Day
£600 per head plus VAT
Daily Rate for the more experienced drivers £120 per head plus VAT.
Note: 2 persons per cab.
6. Practical Application £66.00
LORRY TEST – CAT C1+E
Stages:
1. Check the paper part of your Licence to ensure you have provisional entitlement for C1+E.
2. If you do not have this category on your licence then send DL1 plus both parts of your licence to Coleraine. This is Free of Charge. (If possible take a copy of your licence to keep for your own records).
3. Once you have the Provisional Entitlement for C1+E on your Driving Licence then call Ians and we will give you 1st class tuition.
4 Day Course (9am-5pm)
Test on 5th Day
£600 per head plus VAT
Daily Rate for the more experienced drivers £120 per head plus VAT
Note: 2 persons per cab.
5. Practical Application £66.00
LORRY TEST – CAT C
Stages:
1. Fill in the Provisional Application DL1 (NI) tick box(s) in shaded area of Section 4. This is to gain you provisional entitlement for the category in which you wish to learn.
2. Fill in Medical Report DLM1. (One medical at this stage will cover all additional categories so best to add more or all at this stage, this will save you money as one Medical will cost around £80.
3. Send DL1 and DLM1 plus both parts of your licence to Coleraine. This is Free of Charge. (If possible take a copy of your licence to keep for your own records).
4. Theory Application
Theory Test – £35.00
Hazard Perception Test – £15.00
Both tests can be booked for the same day but a 2 hr gap MUST be taken between tests.
Ians keep in stock Theory/Hazard books and DVDs.
The Official Theory Test for Driver of Large Vehicles £15.99
DVD Hazard Perception Test £10.99
5. Call Ians and we will give you 1st class tuition.
4 Day Course (9am-5pm)
Test on 5th Day
£650 per head plus VAT
Daily Rate for the more experienced drivers £130 per head plus VAT
Note: 2 persons per cab.
6. Practical Application £66.00
Look forward to hearing from you.
LORRY TEST – CAT C+E
Stages:
1. Check the paper part of your Licence to ensure you have provisional entitlement for C+E.
2. If you do not have this category on your licence then send DL1 plus both parts of your licence to Coleraine. This is Free of Charge. (If possible take a copy of your licence to keep for your own records).
3. Once you have the Provisional Entitlement for C+E on your Driving Licence then call Ians and we will give you 1st class tuition.
4 Day Course (9am-5pm)
Test on 5th Day
£650 per head plus VAT
Daily Rate for the more experienced drivers £130 per head plus VAT
I decided to learn to drive when I turned 49 (well slightly over it) (being truthful a lot more than slightly over it) and Joe was recommended to me by a friend.
I’ll never forget that first time behind the wheel, very mixed feelings from fear to sheer terror but Joe soon put me at my ease.
He adopts a relaxed but very professional approach to the very difficult task of teaching some one to drive, especially some one of my senior years, and soon I became more confident and looked forward to my lessons every week.
I studied hard and passed my theory test in July and immediately applied for my driving test. I am delighted to say I passed my test on Thursday 9th September and at my first attempt.
I can honestly say that learning to drive with Joe was a brilliant experience and throughout all the hard work he always found time to have a laugh and make each lesson enjoyable.
Passing my test was like winning the lotto and I can never thank Joe enough for the patience and support he showed me during my time learning with him and I would have no hesitation in recommending him.
God bless Joe Keep up the good work!
September 14th, 2010 in
Car Students |
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Maisie Crawford rips up her L Plates after passing her driving test at the age of 69.
Published Date: 11 June 2010 Derry Journal
A Derry granny who failed her first driving test two weeks ago for speeding, has finally got rid of her L plates.
When 69 years-old Maisie Crawford passed her driving test on Tuesday morning – she fulfilled her life’s ambition.
And she’s encouraging other women in their sixties who never considered driving to get out there and learn.
“It’s my dream come true,” said Maisie. “In the 1950s I fell in love with a new Mini car which I could have bought new for £450 but I never learned to drive.
“Last May I woke up one morning and decided I was going to learn to drive. I don’t know where the idea came from.”
Maisie first took lessons in a manual car, but because of problems with her leg after a stroke she had to give it up.
“I thought I’d have to forget about driving,” she said. “But then my friend Rachel told me about Joe Brolly from the Foyle School of Driving who could teach me in an automatic car.
“I just love Joe to bits. The first time we went out driving I felt so stupid, but Joe put me at ease, even when I refused to go above 15 mph.
“He always used to tell me off for not checking my left hand mirror. Finally one day he told me there was a man running past with a bare bum in the mirror, that kept reminding me to check it.
“Joe and I had plenty of tears and plenty of laughter.”
Maisie’s first test was two weeks ago when she was failed for speeding.
She told Joe to keep the date of the second test a secret and he surprised her on Tuesday morning when he told her he was taking her to the test centre.
“God was with me on Tuesday,” said Maisie. “When the instructor told me I’d passed I gave him a big kiss.”
Maisie’s now enjoying life in her new Citroen and announced that her first trip out will be to Tesco to do her shopping
“It’s amazing ,” she said. “The world is my oyster.”
Jim Doyle who owns Foyle School of Driving says many women in Derry are in Maisie’s situation, who perhaps didn’t learn to drive.
“Maisie is an inspiration to other women,” he said. “It doesn’t matter what your age is.”
Introduction of an Approved Motorcycle Instructor (AMI) Register and Compulsory Basic Training (CBT)
Driver Vehicle Agency (DVA) will be introducing a system of Compulsory Basic Training (CBT) in Northern Ireland for those wishing to ride a motorcycle as a learner rider. In addition an Approved Motorcycle Instructor (AMI) Register, similar to that of the present Approved Driving Instructor (ADI) Register, will be introduced in order to regulate this training. Once introduced it will be a mandatory requirement that anyone delivering motorcycle training for payment must be an Approved Motorcycle Instructor. DVA plan to introduce Compulsory Basic Training and an Approved Motorcycle Instructor Register by December 2010.
——————————————————————————–
How do I become an AMI?
To become an Approved Motorcycle Instructor, you will have to complete the following three stages:
AMI Theory Test (Part 1)
AMI Driving Ability & Fitness Test (Part 2)
Instructional Ability Test (Part 3)
You must take and pass all 3 parts of the examination in this order and the whole examination must be completed within 2 years of passing the theory test. If you have not completed the examination within this time you must start again from the beginning and pass each part once again.
Individuals with relevant motorcycle qualifications may be exempt from certain stages but these cases will be considered on an individual basis.
Individuals who are already listed on the voluntary motorcycle register will have “grandfather rights” to the AMI Register and a maximum 6 month period to apply for registration once the register is introduced.
For further information contact DVA via email at dvlni@doeni.gov.uk
Thanks Joe Brolly
After 5 months with foyle school of driving learning to handle an automatic car,I have passed my test. I now have a wee car, It’s a smart for 2.
Now I don’t have to wait for the bus to take me shopping. I just get into my car and take off. So far in the last three days since passing my I have been up to junction 1,up to Cookstown ,and over to Strabane to Asda.I feel so free. I’m looking forward to the summer and taking off to wherever the fancy takes me.
BY THE WAY I AM 61 AND LOOKING FORWARD
Bernadette Innes
Brigade road
Waterside
At the age of 50 I retired from East Down College where I had worked for almost 24 years. I’m not a person who can sit about, although my wife might say different. I had taken a few of my teacher friends’ sons and daughters out on driving lessons, so I decided to train to become an ADI.
This was a walk on the dark side as I would be (pardon the pun ) taken for a ride by several so called trainers.
The first step was to look in my local yellow pages. What a lot of trainers. I rang the one with the biggest advert. Oh what a mistake. I was invited to an assessment morning at a cost of £50. Really enjoyed this and especially at the end I was told that I would make a good driving instructor. The next part was arranging to meet my trainer at a given time and place to hand over £1250 cash for one weeks training. The reason for the cash was to avoid VAT. Paid by any other means it would have been 17.5% extra.
The first day of training come and 6 others turned up so we were put into two cars, three in one and four in the other. I make that a total of £8750. Not bad for a weeks’ work for 2 people if you can get it.
At lunchtime on the Friday we were told that we should qualify in about 8 weeks’ time and were given the opportunity of taking extra lessons at £40 an hour. Remember this was 6 years ago. A bit expensive or what? To my sickening disgust I found out that when I sat part 1 I was not in the least prepared. A lot of home study went in and I eventually passed. Sat part two and again I failed.
At this point I was absolutely fuming, I had just thrown away £1250 and believe me I couldn’t afford to.
On to my second trainer, a very nice chap who took me on a drive on the test route and cleared up a few minor faults. I then was successful in passing part 3. Lessons with him were £35 an hour with a lesson lasting 2 hours. Wayhay I am on to my part three training, this should be a walk in the park as I had been teaching people who struggled with basic maths and English. I booked a session to get to grips with what the examiner would be looking for. I thought I had lost my grip. This was going to be a lot harder than I imagined so I went for session after session and had to buy my trainer cups of tea /coffee and buns each time he required a break. Then followed his smoke break. All this was being paid for me. I failed part 3 three times.
God loves a tryer and I was not about to give up. I sat my parts 1 & 2 again and passed first time. Now I had to try to find a decent trainer who knew what they were doing.
I went on to the DVA website and chose at random a chap fairly local to the test area in Belfast. A very nice chap who was obsessed with the briefings and rather than him having planned my lesson he would always do briefings followed by “now what do you want to do?”
During this time I did some searching the web and came up with Smartdriving.co.uk and I read about John Farlam. Now this was interesting, so I subscribed to his weekly news letter and booked a three day training session with him in Boyle Co. Roscommon. Did I get my eyes opened or what? He didn’t only train me as a driving instructor but trained me as to my way of thinking about ones self. This was what I call an approach to the whole person. I only had one more go at part 3 and unfortunately due to an extreme bout of nerves I failed again. This didn’t put me off and I remained a fan of John’s method of teaching.
Back and successfully passed part’s 1 & 2 again. I tried to book another refresher session with John but due to work commitments in England he was unable to take me but recommended Jim Doyle from Foyle Driving School in Derry.
I live 100 mile from Derry, so I set off @ 6.20am on a very snowy January morning. I had arranged to meet Jim in my favourite coffee place “Starbucks” so there was an incentive – A coffee and a croissant – met Jim and immediately thought “ this man could be John’s brother”.
Down with the coffee and on to the road. Well was I pleasantly surprised, this man knew what he was talking about and used similar methods to John. His favourite phrases were “LOOK AT ME” “SAY WHAT YOU SEE”. I tried to wing it but Jim always saw through me and it was back to his favourite phrases. Two 4 hour sessions with Jim was enough to pass me at part 3.
All together I must have spent at least £10,000 on training over the past number of years. Only a very small percentage was spent on John and Jim. For their work with me I am truly grateful.
Today I received my ADI number and have my signage on my car.
My tip for you is use these two men and success will come your way. I know I will probably never recoup the money wasted on so called trainers and the sooner Training is regulated the better.
Thank you both, you have made an old dog very happy when I look outside and see my name on the roof sign on my car.
