Susan Curtis | Approved Driving Instructor (ADI) & Trainer
Welcome
Hi! I’m Susan, a DVSA-approved driving instructor and ADI trainer based in Sevenoaks. I specialise in helping pupils of all ages and abilities become safe, confident drivers—with a calm, friendly approach that puts learners at ease from day one.
At Sevenoaks Driving Instructors, I take pride in creating a relaxed, supportive environment where pupils feel encouraged—not pressured. Whether you’re just starting out, returning after a break, or looking to build confidence in specific areas (like roundabouts, motorways, or parking), lessons are tailored to meet your goals at your pace.
I work with learners of all ages, but I know just how important it is for parents to feel confident about who’s teaching their son or daughter to drive. I’m calm, patient, DVSA approved, and always aim to make lessons feel safe, structured, and stress-free—especially for nervous beginners.
Whether your teen is just starting out, or you’re an adult looking to get back behind the wheel, No pressure, just good honest teaching with lots of encouragement and support.
What Makes My Driving Lessons Different?
✅ High pass rate built on structured, supportive teaching
✅ Manual driving lessons tailored to each individual
✅ Nervous drivers welcomed with patience and understanding
✅ PDI (Instructor) training for those looking to qualify as ADIs
✅ Full progress tracking and clear development steps
✅ Flexible lesson scheduling to suit busy school or work commitments
School Pick-Up Available
I offer lesson from the following local schools—ideal for students wanting to use free periods.
• Trinity School, Sevenoaks
• Weald of Kent Grammar (Sevenoaks site)
• Tunbridge Wells Boys Grammar (Sevenoaks site)
• Knole Academy
• Sevenoaks School
• Radnor House
• West Heath School
• Walthamstow Hall
FAQs
What Questions Should You Ask?
To help you make the best choice, here are some questions you might consider:
Every pupil is different, but DVSA statistics suggest most learners need around 40–45 hours of professional instruction, along with private practice. I’ll track your progress and let you know when you’re test-ready.
Every pupil is different, but DVSA statistics suggest most learners need around 40–45 hours of professional instruction, along with private practice. I’ll track your progress and let you know when you’re test-ready.
Yes! You don’t need to pass your theory before starting lessons. In fact, learning practical driving alongside theory can help both make more sense.
Absolutely. I have lots of experience working with nervous pupils, and I’ll always tailor lessons to your pace and comfort. No pressure—just patient, supportive guidance.
Please bring:
• Your provisional licence
• Glasses/contact lenses if needed
• Sensible footwear
• And a positive attitude!
Yes! I offer free pickups from several schools in the Sevenoaks area and can often adjust timings to fit around your school schedule (see the list of schools on the site).
At the moment, I only offer manual driving lessons.
I require 48 hours’ notice for cancellations. If you cancel within that time, the lesson will still be chargeable. With enough notice, the lesson credit is rolled over.
We’ll do a 1-hour warm-up lesson before the test, using my car (included in the test fee). I’ll be there to support you right until the moment you head into the test centre.
I have a High First-Time Pass Rate
I’m proud to say that a high number of my pupils pass their driving test on the first attempt. That’s down to structured, personalised lessons, thorough preparation, and making sure you only take your test when you’re truly ready.
I won’t rush you—but I will make sure you feel confident, capable, and calm on the day. Your success is my priority, and I celebrate every single pass with just as much pride as you do.
Lesson Price
Whether you’re a total beginner or building confidence before your test, all lessons are manual, 1:1, and tailored to your level:
• 1 Hour Lesson – £55
Great for refresher sessions or focused practice.
• 1.5 Hour Lesson – £75
Recommended!
Ideal for beginners or anyone needing more time to settle in, especially for the first lesson.
• 2 Hour Lesson – £100
Perfect for deeper practice, more advanced routes, and mock test routines.
• 3 Hour Session – £150
For longer structured sessions or multiple skills in one go.
• Test Day – £100
Includes 1 hour warm-up lesson before the test and use of the car for the test itself.
Use of Car for Driving Test
When using my car for your driving test, please be aware:
You are responsible for the excess on the insurance policy during your test.
(This is standard for instructor vehicles and will be fully explained beforehand.)
Cancellation Policy
Life happens – I completely understand. Here’s the policy to keep things fair:
• 48 hours notice is required for any lesson cancellations.
• If cancelled with at least 48 hours’ notice, your payment will be carried over to your next lesson.
• Cancellations within 48 hours of your booked lesson will still be charged in full.
Reviews / Testimonials
“Well done Susan, great achievement lovely 💕
Susan is highly recommended. She was just what my daughter needed.. Susan got her through her test she also helped my daughter to build confidence, not only on the road massively but also with in herself.”
Emma
From Sevenoaks
I have attempted to learn to drive on two occasion before using Susan. I had always blamed myself for why it hadn’t worked and believed that because I’m neurodivergent and process things different driving wasn’t for me. And then something made me give it one more go and I honestly can’t explain how happy I am that I did. Susan was brilliant from start to finish, so much so that it can make me emotional thinking about the journey we took together. She put me at ease always, pushed my when I doubted myself and adapted her learning styles to suit me and my needs. Never once did I feel out of place, difficult or useless like I did previously. She is exceptional and amazing at making you feel worthy, she pushed me to do better each lesson and always remembered every detail about me, my lessons previously, my journey and my needs.
I don’t often leave reviews but I could write about this for hours.
Thank you Susan, I can’t wait to see how many other people you help to thrive again.
I don’t often leave reviews but I could write about this for hours.
Thank you Susan, I can’t wait to see how many other people you help to thrive again.
Beth
From Sevenoaks
Why I Became a Driving Instructor
Hi, I’m Susan—based in Sevenoaks, mum to two amazing teenagers (19 & 14), and proud to be doing a job I truly love every day.
My passion for driving and teaching started years ago, thanks to my dad. He was not only a driving instructor, but later a driving examiner and eventually a test centre manager. I used to ask him every day, “How many passed today, Dad?” I loved hearing his stories from the test centre—and now I realise just how much those conversations inspired me, that is something I keep in my heart everyday.
Even now, he’s my go-to for advice and insight. I’m constantly learning from his decades of experience, and it’s been such a valuable influence on how I approach teaching today.
For years, I wanted to pursue this career, but the cost and time commitment for training always felt out of reach. Then, during the COVID lockdown, everything changed. Like many others, I lost my job—but it opened a door. I took a part-time role and used that time to study, train, and give everything I had to becoming an Approved Driving Instructor (ADI).
When the UK reopened, I was ready to become qualified—and I haven’t looked back since.
Being a driving instructor isn’t just a job for me—it’s something I’m passionate about. I love seeing pupils grow in confidence, overcome challenges, and eventually pass their test knowing they’ve gained a skill for life. Sharing in those moments is something I’ll never take for granted.
The Long Drive – A Lesson to Look Forward To
Many of my pupils hear about The Long Drive early on—and often look forward to it as a milestone in their learning journey.
This isn’t just a longer driving lesson; it’s a real-world driving experience designed to build confidence, develop advanced awareness, and prepare you for driving beyond Sevenoaks.
We head out on a carefully planned route from Sevenoaks to Biggin Hill, passing through areas like Cudham, Keston, Locks Bottom, and Orpington—each offering new and different challenges.
What Makes It Different?
• Multi-lane roundabouts
• Bus lanes and red routes
• Urban traffic conditions
• More complex road systems
• Higher-speed rural roads
These are road types and hazards you won’t see much of in central Sevenoaks, making this drive an essential step toward becoming a confident, adaptable driver.
✈️ The Biggin Hill Stop
We take a short break at Biggin Hill Airport, where you can watch a few planes, have a breather, and we’ll have a relaxed chat about how the drive has gone and what’s coming next.
It’s a chance to reflect, reset, and look at your progress from a new perspective.
Ready to Book Driving Lessons in Sevenoaks?
Book driving lessons in Sevenoaks and get in touch today to get on the road. Your route to confident local driving starts here!
Web: Booking Page
Call: 07713 338 619
