Cockpit Drill and Controls: Introduction

The exam

The controls lesson is no longer permitted as a lesson subject for ADI Part-Three or Standards Checks. 

The DVSA wish to see a 'moving lesson' in which the instructor can demonstrate how risk is managed and how they can adapt to fit the learner's changing needs as the lesson progresses.

The lesson

It's very easy to go into too much detail when teaching the controls lesson (and also when briefing for other lessons). Perhaps the worst thing you can do is to try and learn a script...

As a skilled driver already know all of the content information you need to teach this lesson. For background information about possible content to include in this lesson see DriverActive links below and the appropriate DriverActive handouts from the Gold Member's Area at adimasterclass.co.uk.

DriverActive links: Cockpit Drill | Controls

Goals

Your goal:

To ensure that your pupil can enter the vehicle safely, complete the cockpit drill and that he/she understands the function of the controls and how they are operated.

As a general rule your controls lesson will include engine start and moving off - in which case the correct pre-start safety procedure and moving off routines would also be covered.

Learner's goals:

To enter the car safely and adjust the seat and mirrors prior to driving. To understand the basics of seatbelt use and passenger safety. To understand the function and use of the main controls.

To perform the correct pre-start safety procedure and moving off safely, under full control (covered in moving off and stopping).

Note that these are generic goals - some learners will have specific personal goals. You also need to take in to account any previous experience, for example, if you were to teach someone who was from a 'no car' family your approach might be different to someone who regularly rides in a car (there are still more than 20% of families with no car).

Next: The DSSSM routine...