Service categories: Extra-curricular and leisure activities

Service URL: https://www.startingpointintensive.com/

Secondary URL: https://www.startingpointintensive.com/general-8

We are a driving school offering theory classes and intensive driving courses. We have developed our theory training to be delivered online via Microsoft Teams, providing a supportive and accessible learning environment for learner drivers who are preparing for the DVSA theory test.

Our online theory classes are particularly suited to autistic and neurodivergent learners, as well as individuals with additional learning needs. We understand that traditional classroom environments can sometimes create barriers to learning, including sensory distractions, unfamiliar surroundings, noise and the pressure of learning in a group. By delivering the training online, students can participate from the comfort and familiarity of their own home or another environment where they feel safe and comfortable.

Our trainers take a patient, understanding and individualised approach. We recognise that autistic and neurodivergent learners may process information differently or require additional time, repetition or alternative explanations. We therefore encourage students to ask questions, revisit topics and work at a pace that is appropriate for them. The online format also allows students to take breaks when needed and manage their own environment and sensory needs.

Through Microsoft Teams, students are able to interact directly with our trainers, view learning materials, discuss different aspects of the theory test and work through questions together. We also provide opportunities for students to practise DVSA-style theory questions and mock tests, helping them become familiar with the format of the test and build confidence before taking the actual examination.

No matter how many previous attempts a student has had, we aim to help them understand the theory rather than simply memorise answers. We work with each learner to identify areas where they are struggling and provide additional explanation and support where required.

Once the course has been completed, we encourage our students to remain in contact with us and ask any additional questions they may have about the theory test or any aspect of their training in the lead-up to their test. We are happy to provide ongoing guidance and clarification to help reinforce their knowledge and build confidence.

If a student is unsuccessful in their theory test, we do not consider their training to have ended. We offer continued support at no additional cost, including the opportunity to resit the course, so that we can identify any areas of difficulty and provide further guidance to help them prepare for their next attempt.

Evidence of Our Approach

We regularly seek feedback from autistic and neurodivergent pupils and, where appropriate, their parents and carers about their experiences of our trainers and training.

The feedback we have received has consistently been positive.

A particularly important example is Joe, who has ASD and had previously failed the theory test on 17 occasions. After receiving our support and attending our theory training, Joe successfully passed his theory test.

Joe has since gone on to pass his practical driving test and is now enjoying the independence and freedom that comes with being able to use his own car.

For us, Joe's journey demonstrates the importance of patience, understanding, appropriate support and adapting the learning experience to the individual. His achievement is something we are extremely proud of, and it reinforces our commitment to supporting autistic and neurodivergent people to achieve their goal of becoming safe, confident and independent drivers.

Our Commitment

We are committed to continually reviewing and improving the accessibility of our service. We welcome feedback from autistic and neurodivergent learners, their families, carers and support networks and use this feedback to help us understand what we are doing well and where we can improve.

Our aim is to provide a respectful, inclusive and supportive service in which autistic and neurodivergent learners are not expected to simply adapt to a standard method of teaching. Instead, we aim to adapt our approach wherever reasonably possible so that each learner has the opportunity to learn, develop confidence and ultimately achieve their goal of becoming an independent driver.

Once you have passed your theory test, we offer intensive driving courses tailored to your individual needs to help you prepare for your practical driving test.

Our courses are designed to build on your existing driving experience and ability, focusing on the areas where you need the most improvement. Every course is personalised to suit your individual requirements, helping you develop the skills, confidence and test readiness you need to succeed.

Aimed at: Adolescent , Adult , Adult sibling, Businesses, Parent or carer of under 18, Parent/carer of a child, Parent/carer of a young person, Parent/carer of an adult, Parents or carers, families, adults, Professional, Students

Referral Sources: Education

Specialisms: Autism, Autism and Neurodivergent , Challenging behaviour, Learning disability