Business Details
26 Years
experience
Expert Driving Lessons Across South England & Wales
With over two decades of experience in driver training education, 1st 4 Driving has established itself as a leading driving school across the South of England and Wales. Founded by Dave Foster, a highly qualified driving instructor with a Master's Degree in Driver Training Education, we specialise in delivering DVSA-approved coaching techniques tailored to individual learning needs. Our team of expert instructors focuses on building confidence and competence, ensuring pupils develop lifelong driving skills.Headquartered in Callington, Cornwall, we operate from a historic listed building and continuously invest in research and training to maintain industry-leading standards. Our commitment to quality tuition has resulted in a strong first-time pass rate, supported by free theory training and flexible lesson options. We pride ourselves on adapting to modern driving challenges while maintaining a personalised approach to driver education.
Services
Driving Lessons
Refresher Courses
Intensive Training
Motorway Lessons
Pass Plus
Details
- Year established: 2000
Highlights and features
- Over 20 years of driver training expertise
- DVSA-approved coaching techniques for effective learning
- Flexible lesson formats including intensive courses
- Free access to theory training resources
- Proven track record with high first-time pass rates
Associations and certifications
- DVSA
What people say
Fantastic instructor
Great confidence boost
Patient and friendly
Excellent teaching skills
Highly recommend
Services
Driving Lessons
Comprehensive driving instruction tailored to individual needs across South England and Wales. Our DVSA-approved instructors use modern coaching techniques to build confidence and competence. Lessons cover all aspects of road safety and test preparation, with flexible scheduling options for manual and automatic vehicles. Pupils benefit from structured learning plans and consistent instructor support.
Intensive Training
Accelerated driving programs designed for rapid skill development. These concentrated courses cover full test requirements in compressed timelines while maintaining safety standards. Ideal for learners needing quick qualification for work or personal reasons, with customised lesson plans to match individual progress rates.
Refresher Courses
Specialist sessions for drivers needing confidence restoration or skill improvement. Targeted instruction addresses specific concerns like motorway driving or roundabout navigation. Designed for returning drivers or those seeking efficiency improvements, with focus on modern road conditions and safety practices.
Pass Plus
Post-test driving development program covering rural roads, dual carriageways and motorways. Enhances road confidence while potentially reducing insurance costs. Six-hour course includes practical experience and theory components, delivered by experienced instructors using real-world driving scenarios.
Motorway Lessons
Specialised instruction for motorway driving confidence and competence. Covers safe merging, lane discipline and high-speed navigation. Designed for new drivers and experienced motorists needing refresher training, with practical sessions on major UK motorway networks.
People
Dave Foster
Managing Director and Founder
MA, Dip.DI qualified driving expert with over 20 years' experience. Developed research-based teaching methods after identifying industry shortcomings. Leads instructor training programs and maintains quality standards across all operations.
Questions
How many driving lessons will I need?
Average learners require 30-47 hours professional tuition plus private practice. Two-hour weekly sessions improve efficiency. Exact requirements vary based on individual progress and experience level.
Do you offer automatic driving lessons?
Yes, we provide automatic lessons in Southampton, Reading and expanding locations. All new cars sold after 2030 will be automatic, making this increasingly popular option.
What areas do you cover?
We operate across South England including Berkshire, Cornwall, Devon, Hampshire, and Somerset, plus Welsh locations. Coverage continues expanding to serve more communities.
Do you provide theory test training?
Yes, all pupils receive free access to our comprehensive theory training system with hazard perception practice and mobile app support.
Can I book intensive driving courses?
Yes, we offer intensive programs with customised schedules. Availability varies by location and requires commitment to accelerated learning approach.
What qualifications do your instructors have?
All instructors are DVSA-approved with regular training updates. Our founder holds a Master's Degree in Driver Training Education and maintains industry-leading standards.
Videos
Reviews (6)
Nick Richardson
Nov 06, 2021
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I used Hardip in Southampton for my automatic licence, I couldn't recommend him more! He has a great style of teaching and caters for your needs helping you with what you think you need to work on whilst constructively advising on areas he thinks you need to work on.
Makes you feel very at ease and easy to get on with. He really made sure I was ready for all situations using a wide variety of different roads and any given situation not just test routes. I passed first time with next to no miners. Great Guy all round and worth using
Makes you feel very at ease and easy to get on with. He really made sure I was ready for all situations using a wide variety of different roads and any given situation not just test routes. I passed first time with next to no miners. Great Guy all round and worth using
Halah Samman
Oct 20, 2020
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I passed my driving test in the 1st attempt with Mr. Tony Hislop. I can not recommend Tony enough for the amount of experience and driving tips he is willing and capable of sharing during the lessons. He is very well familiar with all test routes, test centres, and examiners. The test route I had was actually one that Tony took me through twice or 3 times at least. Thus, I was extremely comfortable on the test day.
Tony is so honest he would tell you whether or not you're ready for the test even if the number of lessons is comparatively small. He will make sure a number of times you've got all
Tony is so honest he would tell you whether or not you're ready for the test even if the number of lessons is comparatively small. He will make sure a number of times you've got all
It'S. Sam
Aug 24, 2020
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Passed my test first time which is unbelievable ! Had a great experience of driving with Mr Tony who is very patient, kind and respectful. He responded positively and clearly to my concerns about driving and helped me to overcome this challenge. Thank you Tony
Safiul Alam
Jul 22, 2019
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Hi its AFIA. I have passed my driving test as my instructor was Mr Tony Hislop. He is a very good instructor I have ever seen. He has so much patience. I made mistakes and sometimes very nervous. But he always try to help me and make me feel easier and smooth driving. He always encouraged me .I would highly recommend him as a instructor Tony is the best..Thank you
Brock Revell
Jun 17, 2019
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Great stuff, I passed first time with mike as my instructor and as I suffer bad with anxiety, it was no problem as Mike is such a chilled out down to earth guy and an amazing driving instructor, I would highly recommend the company and mike. Thanks very much to mike for helping me pass
Dr. Peristera Andreakou
Nov 03, 2017
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Mike was an excellent instructor. He explained clearly how I should act at different circumstances. He was calm and characterized my high professionalism.I will definitely recommend Mike to any person would like to learn to drive and pass the driving test fast
