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It's All About Me! Just this bit though!
Hi, I'm Dan, the owner and instructor at Eastside Driving School.
Originally from Manchester, I moved to East Devon in 2012 through my job in the advertising industry. Although the move was a welcome change of scenery, I soon realised the career wasn't the right fit for me, so I decided it was time for a new direction.
I've always enjoyed building businesses and following my passions. One of those passions has always been classic Volkswagens. I restored my own 1972 VW campervan and turned it into a holiday hire business. What started with one camper eventually grew into a fleet of three campervans and a classic Beetle, all available for holidays, weddings and proms.
After six successful years, I was ready for another challenge. I sold the business and opened a plastic-free shop in Ottery St Mary, later expanding with a second shop in Sidmouth. Like many small businesses, the pandemic brought unexpected challenges, and after 4 years I decided I wanted to change to something completely different.
I had the opportunity to think about what I genuinely enjoy doing. The answer was simple, driving and working with people.
In 2022, I began training to become a driving instructor and started teaching learners in March 2023 as a Trainee or officially known as a Potential Driving Instructor (PDI). The journey to becoming a DVSA Approved Driving Instructor (ADI) involves three demanding stages: an advanced theory and hazard perception test, a practical driving test assessed to a higher standard than the learner test, and a teaching assessment that focuses on lesson planning, adapting to individual learners and, above all, keeping people safe.
I successfully qualified as an Approved Driving Instructor (ADI) in April 2024.
Today, I help learners of all ages and abilities become safe, confident drivers. Whether you're completely new to driving, feeling nervous about getting behind the wheel, or returning to driving after a break, my aim is always the same, to provide patient, friendly and professional tuition that helps you progress at your own pace.
I still live in East Devon, currently in Ottery St Mary, and spend plenty of time in Sidmouth with my partner. Being local means I know the roads, the traffic conditions and the nearby driving test routes, allowing me to prepare learners for real-world driving as well as their practical test.
Learning to drive is a big milestone, and I know it can feel daunting at first. My goal is to make every driving lesson relaxed, enjoyable and productive, giving you the confidence and skills you'll use for a lifetime, not just to pass your test.
If you've made it this far, you've probably heard enough about me! I'd love to hear your story instead. If you have any questions or you're ready to start your driving journey, get in touch.
