Training Vehicle
Toyota, Hybrid Automatic
Services Offered
- Automatic Learner Driving Lessons
- Automatic Refresher and Motorway Lessons
Areas
- Weybridge KT13
- West Byfleet KT14
- Addlestone KT15
- Chertsey KT16
- Shepperton TW17
Biography
Originally from Northern Ireland, James came over to live and work in London after college in 1987.
With a strong background in professional driver training, James brings a wealth of real-world experience and expertise to every lesson. Before becoming a driving instructor, he worked as an emergency services driving instructor for Ambulance, police, and Fire brigade, training drivers to operate safely and confidently in high-pressure situations where precision, awareness, and calm decision-making were essential.
He has also worked as an HGV instructor, teaching advanced vehicle control, road safety, and defensive driving techniques to professional drivers. This extensive experience means his teaching style goes far beyond simply passing a test — focusing instead on building safe, skilled, and confident drivers for life.
Outside of instructing, James has a passion for motors and adventure. He is an enthusiastic motorbike rider and even enjoys skydiving, reflecting his love of focus, discipline, and controlled excitement — qualities he brings into his calm and supportive teaching approach.
Known for his patient manner and clear coaching style, James aims to create a relaxed learning environment where students feel comfortable, confident, and fully prepared for independent driving.
Testimonials
Katie Hatton, Automatic driving lessons Addlestone
“After many years of not driving, James helped me to build my skills and boost my confidence. So many of my friends that have passed their tests have no confidence. James showed me how to drive, not just how to pass my test. He had so much patience, kindness and good humour. I can’t recommend him enough. Thanks so much James!”
22 March 2026
Tom Hodgson, Automatic driving lessons Chertsey
“I have been learning to drive with James and he has helped me so much throughout all of my lessons. I am very happy to say that I have passed my driving test first time, and without his guidance I would not have been able to. I would highly recommend anyone who wants to learn in an automatic to take lessons with him”
06 February 2026
Kate Brunton, Automatic driving lessons Weybridge
“Highly recommend Elite and instructor James! After taking years of onand off driving lessons with different instructors, I was so happy to finally pass my test!”
“James is great – super personable and patient. He made driving enjoyable, which made all the difference to me. Thanks to James I went in to my test feeling super positive and all of his guidance really paid off. Couldn’t recommend James more highly.”
14 January 2026
