Questions you should be asking about PCV training

What is the difference between different schools 'training days'?

You want to be sure of the amount of time you actually spend driving, not wasting time with several tea breaks, lunch breaks etc and you need to know what time your 'day' finishes? We confirm the training hours you have booked. You won't find any small print on our documents with vague training 'days', you'll know what you've booked and that's what we will provide.

We are happy to state, in writing, all the stages (and the costs) to get your licence as well as providing detailed information about the content of your training course booking.

What is the advantage of taking an Assessment Lesson?

Not only can you visit our school, meet our staff and try our training vehicles, you also have the opportunity to talk to our instructors. A driving assessment takes the guesswork out of trying to pass first time. You will know the exact number of training hours you need to learn the skills and competencies required to reach the Test Standard. A 'one-size fits all' 5 day course does not suit everyone. Drivers who follow our Instructor's Ideal Recommendations consistently achieve higher than the national average pass rate.

Does Wallace deliver training on behalf of 'brokers' or 'third party agents'?

When you make a booking directly with us you will save time and money and receive quality training and a good booking service. Nationally advertised training agencies can't help you in the same way as they do not have their own training vehicles and  simply 'sell' your booking to the cheapest, unqualified and unregulated providers that they can (and they may not be anywhere near you either). The cheaper the cost of your training to them, the more they keep of your fees. They have no interest in the quality of training once they have received your money. Wallace School of Transport is an independent school, we are not brokers/agents. (Also see Opportunities for help in finding work with your licence)

Remember you should always make sure you know who you are dealing with.  You can only establish you are talking to a genuine school by visiting them and driving one of their training vehicles (on an assessment lesson).  Take your time about booking.  Don't be rushed into making a decision and buying over the phone.  Good companies with genuine deals will still be there tomorrow.  Remember Wallace School of Transport has been established for over 50 years.

Do you have a dedicated fleet of specialist training vehicles?

Specially selected for learners, our vehicles are bought mostly from new. They are regularly maintained and serviced at approved services centres. Our Vehicle Renewal Policy ensures our whole fleet meets the high standard expected of one of the only handful of DSA accredited schools in the country.

Do instructors keep a daily written report on my driving progress?

We adopt a systematic approach to training all subjects so everything you need to know to pass the test is covered. Our instructors deliver all the lessons you need to pass, in logical progression, without unnecessary duplications and time wasting. The time, duration and content of your lessons are recorded on your Progress Report and you will be invited to sign for each lesson to ensure your complete satisfaction. Non-qualified instructors may not follow a systematic approach and something missed may result in failure.

What assurances do I have that I will receive proper and correct training?

We are an RTITB and DSA accredited training centre. All our instructors are qualified. Our School, vehicles and facilities are inspected annually to ensure we continue to provide high quality training.

How can some schools offer a no pass, no fee 'Guaranteed Pass'?

You need to look at the small print. Some schools only offer a guaranteed opportunity to take more than one test, not a guarantee of their ability to teach you fully and properly, or a guarantee of your ability to drive and pass the driving test.

Can I have a Pass Protection Package?

Yes, and you don't have to pay for it in advance or be forced to buy a package before you know if you need it! On your assessment lesson your instructor will provide recommendations. Follow his ideal training recommendations and if you need it you can have a re-test - 2 hours and the use of our vehicle for test - at less than half price. But you don't have to pay for it in advance because we are certain that with proper and correct tuition  

Is the school easily accessible?

Our PCV training in held at our Wembley Training Centre which is near main arterial roads, with free parking and close to public transport connections.

Is there an advantage to shared or individual training?

Individual training, just you and your instructor in the training vehicle, allows you to develop your skills at the most effective rate and you are able to make the best use of your available time. Shared training can be less effective if you are held back by a basic driver.

Will I have to wait for my driving test?

We have a special arrangement with DSA to pre-book driving tests. We arrange your driving test to follow on immediately at the conclusion of the training.

What do all the licence codes mean?

B = vehicle which has eight or less seats and weighs less than 3.5 tonnes
B+E = as above, but with a trailer that has a MAM (Maximum Allowed Mass) weight of more than 750kg
C1 = vehicle that weighs between 3.5 tonnes and 7.5 tonnes
C = vehicle that weighs more than 7.5 tonnes
CE = vehicle with trailer combination up to 44 tonnes
D1 = vehicle that has between 9-16 seats
D = vehicle with more than 16 seats
F = Tractors
G = Road Rollers
H = Tracked vehicles
K = Mowing machine
P = Moped

Will I meet Neil and Ruth Wallace?

Yes, we are both involved in the day to day operation of the school. We are proud our name is on our vehicles. We look forward to meeting you at our Park Royal Office.