Pullinger School of Motoring

About Me

My name is Kirsty Smith, I own and run Pullinger School of Motoring. I passed my driving test in November 1994, it was one of the most nerve wracking things I have done over the years.

As a motorist for over 20 years, I have seen how the roads have changed. Until 2010 I was a full-time delivery driver for Tesco.com, seeing how others treated the vans, I decided to become a driving instructor to pass my knowledge on to others, to try and keep the roads as safe as possible, and make sure that people are aware of the limitations of vision in all vehicles and to show how to allow for the seemingly unexpected.

I fully understand why anyone is nervous about learning to drive, as a result the syllabus is simply a guide of what needs to be learned and consistently carried out before any test should be attempted.

I enjoy teaching nervous students, those with ADHD, autism and anxiety.

The Car

The Vauxhall Astra Elite Nav, is the top-of-the-range model in the hatchback's line-up. As the 'Elite' name may suggest, its top-end placement in the Astra's range means it comes with bags of equipment as standard. You are treated to automatic headlights and windscreen wipers, automatic climate control and heated, leather sports seats.

The car is fitted with He-Man Dual Controls which are a 100% British product. Each dual control is a dedicated design, to ensure the highest level of operation and safety.

In addition to He-Man Dual Controls, the car is also fiteed with forward and rear facing backview cameras which provides the ability to review any lesson in detail using the recorded video footage.

The Syllabus

1. The drivers seat

Cockpit checks
Controls and instruments

2. About the vehicle

Vehicle safety checks
Vehicle security
Loads or passengers

3. Getting started

Moving off
Normal driving position
Stopping
Emergency / controlled stop

4. The traffic environment

Crossroads
Roundabouts
Complex junctions
Pedestrian crossings
Level crossings
One-way systems
Dual carriageways
Rural roads
Motorways

5. Hazard perception

Visual search
Identifying hazards
Prioritizing hazards
Reacting appropriately

6. Manoeuvres

Right reverse
Left reverse
Turn in the road
Forward bay parking
Reverse bay parking
Reverse parallel park
Park up on the right

7. Responsible driving

Eco-safe driving
Independent driving
Vulnerable road users
Night driving
Adverse weather driving
How to use commentary driving

8. New driver scenarios

Distractions
The influence of others
Fatigue
Speed choices
Alcohol
Drugs
In-car safety feature

Test Resources

Use the links below to access resources that will help with your learning, along with direct links to book both your theory and practical driving tests

Useful Resources

Online Highway Code

Theory Test Tools

Theory Test Practice
Book your Theory Test

Practical Test Booking

Book your Driving Test

Testimonials

Lauren

Kirsty helped me think rationally when I was nervous or unsure about something and was always on hand to ask any questions to. She made me feel comfortable and relaxed when I was preparing for my test and encouraged me in times of doubt. She has great flexibility to fit around your schedule. Thanks Kirsty!

Phil

I would recommend Kirsty because she's friendly, considerate and patient; especially in my circumstances with two fails due to nerves. Kirsty pushes you till you can do something and do it well and so that you're calm, comfortable and ready to put it in use practically. As well as being a laugh too, always important to have a little bit of fun after all.

Megan

Kirsty is extremely good at keeping you calm and talking you through all situations. I found it very easy to learn with her as she allows the time needed to process everything.

Matthew

I recommend Kirsty because she was very calm, went at my pace and was very very patient. She made me a lot more confident and helped me overcome nerves. I felt safe in the car with her and it was never awkward or uncomfortable. She is also a good laugh.

1 Hour Lesson	£40
5 Hour Block	£200*
10 Hour Block	£400*

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Teaching Driving Skills for Life