Many training schools unlikely to survive the winter

As an instructor I have grown to accept that the new module 1 test is here to stay and can understand both sides of the argument for and against it.

My main concern is the effect it will have on the training industry due to the lack of forward planning by the DSA.

I understand from conversations with other instructors that the whole training industry will be lucky to survive the next few months.

In previous years schools have been able to survive due to the determination of some students to train in all weathers but with the new module 1 test many people are being put off (with good reason).

I have listed below the main points of concern. – Students are unlikely to want try and swerve at 50kmh on a cold wet windy winters day.

In the event of a light frost module 1 tests will be canceled as examiners are “not qualified” to lay salt down. – Some test centers will suffer badly in high winds due to being very exposed with no wind protection (Farnborough is a great example as its built on an airfield) – many schools are also discovering increased costs due to the excessive amount of slow control lessons on module 1 destroying the clutch.

These are the main concerns I have come across and there may be many more I haven’t crossed my mind yet. The winter downturn has started earlier this year and many instructors (myself included) are now looking at finding other jobs.

How many of these instructors will be prepared to only do seasonal work and change jobs every 6 months is anybodys guess but I for one am not prepared to take that risk with a mortgage and family.