I had lessons with another driving instructor around 8 years before. 3 children later I thought how much easier it would be if I learnt how to drive. I started lessons with Phil in September and was so nervous. From the first lesson Phil puts you at ease. He explains everything really well and clearly. If I didn´t get a manoeuvre he would talk me through it while I attempted again or he would drive while explaining.
On nearly every occasion I panicked as the fear set in at 5 ways junction, to the point that I felt ill as I got there. Phil talked me through where to position the car, what to do and when to go. Eventually I got over the panic and fear and 5 ways wasn´t so daunting. After each lesson Phil sends over a briefing with hand outs attached. These are really helpful and useful as the briefing tells you what went well and where you could improve and the hand outs are brill. Phil also tells you about an app to help with your theory. The app is really good as it´s all questions that could come up on your test.
In the run up to your driving test, Phil treats each lesson as a mock test. He takes you on routes that the examiners use and throws in some manoeuvres. This puts you at ease as you know what sort of thing to expect on the day.
I would recommend Phil to family and friends wanting to learn to drive as he is easy going, makes learning fun and spends the time to make sure you are confident and comfortable with each manoeuvre (even if it does take weeks to get to grips with it). He stays relaxed even if you panic.
All in all an excellent 5* driving instructor who will make each lesson fun and makes learning to drive easy.
I can´t say much for his terrible jokes though.