One of the most fundamental errors that we as "experienced" drivers make is that we assume a new driver can drive...and has seen the bus heading at them from the opposite direction but infact they have not seen it at all.

• And we can't understand why they haven't seen it.
• Well, chances are they haven't! seen it.
• And it's probably because they are still concentrating on the fundamentals of driving. 

What you and I do naturally...isn't natural to your new driver (yet). So getting cross isn't going to help.

If you're going to supervise a learner driver... there are some basic points you should consider before you start.

• Are you the right person?
• Are you correctly insured?
• Check with your insurance company.
• You must be over 21 and held a full licence for the appropriate type of vehicle for at least 3 years.
• If you hold a full licence for an automatic car you must not supervise someone who is learning with a manual gearbox.

Can you cope?

• Supervising a new driver is never easy.
• Road conditions and teaching methods have probably changed since you learned to drive.
• The driving test is not the "pussy cat" you "think" you remember.

Some do's...

• Do realise that your new driver doesn't have your experience.
• Do read the Highway Code again before you start to supervise. (Yes, I know you read the Highway code 20 years ago).
• Do encourage your new driver to read the Highway Code as well.
• Do expect your driver to make mistakes.
• Do be ready to take evasive action.
• Do stay calm.
• Do anticipate.
• Do be ready for the unexpected.
• Do fit a rear view mirror so that you know what's going on behind.
• Do remember you're helping to help the instructor.
• Do remember that an instructor won't see the driver the same way as you.
• Do remember you may not always agree with the instructor.
• Do clearly display L plates on the front and back of the vehicle.
• Do accept some responsibility for mistakes your driver makes.

...and don'ts

• Don't keep telling your driver. "We're about to crash". They probably think the same when you're driving.
• Don't get angry.
• Don't assume.
• Don't expect your driver to know how to deal with every problem. Do you?
• Don't blame your driver for a mistake, blame yourself.
• You should have seen the problem FIRST!
• Don't get caught out. New drivers will take AT LEAST two seconds longer to spot a problem. It's not their fault. It's inexperience!
• Don't try to "re-write" the driving techniques of your new driver.
• Don't see your driver through "rose coloured glasses."
• Don't display L plates if you are driving.

And remember

• Whatever you say will be believed by your driver.
• Think carefully before you over criticise another road users action.
• Whatever you say, do or recommend will have a profound effect on your driver!
• You're helping shape their attitude to driving.
• You carry a burden of responsibility.

Finally, try and avoid being a driving instructor : THATS MY JOB!