Dance Pupils and their Ability to Learn

I met a new pupil last week for her first lesson and was very impressed as to how well she took to learning to drive and it made me think about different types of pupils and their initial ability to pick things up quickly.

The new student had had no previous experience other than 'helping' to change gear whilst in the front passenger seat with her Dad. We found a quiet, straight part of road to start off in and I went through the usual 'Cockpit Drill' routine and then talked about Moving Off and Stopping.

She was able to understand almost immediately what I was trying to say and then complete the actions in the way required. As a result, we were driving through Maidstone, checking mirrors and changing gears in the correct way at the correct time. She was then able to drive to school and amaze all her friends as to how much she had been able to achieve.

This has not been the first pupil to be able to do this but there does seem to be a common denominator, namely, she was a dance student. Other girls in her position I have taught have also been dancers or involved in drama in some way. It seems that their ability to quickly understand and interpret new instructions and routines is something they need to do in class on a regular basis.

This observation should not discourage other existing or potential pupils as this is not a sure-fire way of learning and passing their test in a record time. I also recall that these same pupils often dip when it comes to practising and perfecting their driving skills. They may be good at picking up the basics, but perfecting their skills is another matter. This is where other 'normal' pupils often score better.

It will be interesting if my current 'dance student' will fall into the same category.

For more information, call GT Driving School on 07906 302910 or go to http://www.gtdrivingschool.net.