Driving Standards Agency
Michael runs a busy driving test centre in Sidcup, south east London and has worked his way up to his current role after 12 years as a basic driving test examiner for the Driving Standards Agency. He manages eight examiners in the test centre, as well as carrying out six driving test examinations a day himself.
For Michael, the Advanced Apprenticeship he is about to start at Level 3 in Team Leading and Management is all about giving him the skills he needs to do his job quickly and efficiently.
“My role is very hectic and I can’t afford to waste time. Things need to be right in the test centre, both for the people working there, and for the candidates coming in to take their test. My only qualification for my current role is a driving licence – I wanted to get a qualification which proves that what I am doing is right, which develops my skills in managing people.”
A quick learner
Michael’s Advanced Apprenticeship will take around 12 to 18 months to complete – depending on how quickly he can do the modules. He will have a formal session every two weeks with a trainer and someone will also come into the centre to observe
Michael’s management skills.
“They will be looking at how I work with my team and how I deal with particular situations in real life. I’m really looking forward to the formal learning in the classroom, because it will be an opportunity to do something very different from my normal routine and concentrate on one task rather than the four which normally come my way any minute of the day!”
Career Progression
“It took me a long time to finally find the job for me. I want to prove to myself that I am doing things right. It’s really important to me to get a formal qualification for this role and I hope it will mean I can progress even further in future.”
Last Updated: 23/05/2012