Whether you're a complete beginner or looking to build on existing skills, Bright Start Driving Academy provides professional, tailored driving lessons in Dawlish, Teignmouth and surrounding villages. Learning to drive is an exciting milestone, and my goal is to help you feel confident, capable, and safe behind the wheel.
With a structured yet flexible approach, I ensure that lessons suit your learning style and pace—whether you’re 17 or learning later in life. Together, we’ll work towards not just passing your test, but developing the skills you need for a lifetime of safe driving.
What to Expect from Your Lessons
Each lesson is designed to be engaging, productive, and suited to your individual needs. Here’s what you can expect:
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Structured Learning – We’ll cover everything from car control and manoeuvres to hazard awareness and independent driving.
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Confidence Building – I create a supportive environment where you can ask questions, make mistakes, and grow at your own pace.
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Real-World Experience – Lessons take place in a variety of road conditions to prepare you for safe driving beyond the test.
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A Modern, Comfortable Car – You’ll learn in a Volkswagen Golf 1.5 TSI, equipped with the latest safety features.
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Flexible Learning Options – Whether you prefer weekly lessons or an intensive approach, we’ll find a schedule that works for you.
The DVSA recommends around 40-45 hours of lessons with an instructor, plus private practice where possible. But everyone learns at their own pace, and I’ll support you every step of the way.
UNDER 17 DRIVING LESSONS
Give your child a head start on their driving journey with our special under-17s driving sessions! Research shows that early driving experiences can improve decision-making, judgment, and road safety awareness—skills that last a lifetime.
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Bright Start Driving Academy has access to a dedicated off-road driving circuit, complete with traffic lights, a pedestrian crossing, a mini roundabout, gradients, and more. It’s the perfect environment for young learners (ages 14+) to build confidence, develop essential car control skills, and experience driving in a safe and structured setting before taking to the road.
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2-hour driving session with a qualified instructor
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Exclusive off-road training circuit – no traffic, no pressure!
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Perfect for beginners – master the basics before hitting the road
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​£105 (includes £20 circuit fee) – Save £5 when you book on our dedicated Young Driver days!
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Sessions available for ages 14+ with a valid passport
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Booking is essential—get in touch to arrange a session!
Stacey
I found learning to drive really difficult. Ella was always so kind, calm, patient and encouraging and always made my lessons enjoyable. She was always happy to go through things as many times as it took until I felt confident doing them independently. I would recommend Ella to anybody wanting to learn to drive!
Tom
I can't recommend Ella enough. The resources at hand made me very confident and comfortable for my test day and each lesson was very structured with a clear plan in my head of what was to come. Ella is very laid back and easy going which made me feel at ease whilst driving and helped me with my confidence. Without Ella I would never have passed so can't thank her enough!
Hannah
First of all I would highly recommend Ella. I'm anxious and such an overthinker but Ella was so calm and patient with me. Everything was explained so excellently in order for me to be a safe and confident driver. I passed first time! Shows she's an amazing instructor