Too many newly qualified ADIs never consider taking further training to put right the inadequacies in the teaching that were highlighted by the Supervising Examiner on their Part Three. Too many are just relieved to have scraped through and they fail to be prepared for when the appointment arrives on the doormat. Then it’s usually panic and late, rushed preparation.

Fail to prepare………………………………Prepare to fail……………………….

Take the opportunity now to work on your lesson delivery and content. Do you still structure lessons as you were taught to, all that time ago? Do you know just what the SE will be expecting from you? Have you experienced some mock Check Tests?

I worked hard for my Grade Six and only got it because I tried to improve on my weaker areas. My next one will be due this year so I’ll be going through the process again shortly. Although I am confident that the day to day lessons that I deliver are of Grade Six standard, I’ll still be reassessing things when the appointment letter is received. It would not be normal not to have some nerves. However, my “few” nerves will probably be a million miles away from the downright panic experienced by less prepared ADIs.

Some ADIs take the view that as long as they scrape a Four then they are ok for a few more years. They have little pride in the standard of their tuition or concept of the competitive nature of the industry. They appear blind to the increasing expectations of the paying public. Pupils and parents are now more aware of Grades and Pass Rates.

It is getting tougher all the time to maintain a full book at a reasonable and worthwhile price. Since 2000 the number of ADIs has doubled (add to that the vast numbers of PDIs). Those that bury their heads in the sand may soon wake up to find that the rest have moved on. A structured course that clearly sets you on the right path will provide the confidence you need.