Pathways to work..will they pay for re-training?

passatrider

Iam currently on incapacity benefit and have been requested to go on the pathways to work scheme. I've not had my main interview as yet but have been researching the subject and what I can expect from it.

Iam looking at driving instructor training in my area and have done some enquiring about what it entails and what it costs. The course costs in the region of £2000-£3000 on average, depending how long it takes you to get through the relevant tests.

Would the DWP pay for me to go on this course does anyone know?

The_Undercover_ADI

It's highly unlikely unfortunately.

There is also very little work in the business at the moment and new entrants to the business (as well as many establishd instructors) are really struggling.

Have a look at the driving instructor forums (https://www.adiforum.co.uk and https://www.drivertrainingtoday.co.uk) and do a little research on how current instructors are doing. There is also a lot of free and relatively independent advice on training options (something to be VERY aware of).

I have not found anyone who has managed to get training funded for this (though it may be possible). This may have something to do with the fact that so few people who start the training actually complete it (current figures suggest that only 7% of people who begin the process get through all 3 exams).

It may also have something to do with the fact that only 3% of instructors are employed - the majority are self-employed, either independently or on a franchise. The employed positions are nearly all restricted to highly qualified specialists in industry and public service. The average wage for a qualified instructor seems to be around £12k/year, despite what the adverts suggest.

All I can say is that you should do a LOT of research before committing yourself to this path. I love it, but I'm lucky.