1st Gear Driving School Watford

Fantastic experience: I had never driven manual from the right side of the car, but Nigel helped me make the transition quickly. He showed me lots of tips and tricks, and within a few lessons I was ready to upgrade my automatic license, and passed with just one minor! (Which TBH was a silly error I shouldn’t have made, because I was distracted chatting with my examiner ) He was always on time and helped prepare me for the exam by showing me many of the areas that tend to cause problems for students. I’m very appreciative of his help!

Fantastic experience: Nigel is an amazing driving instructor, he’s funny and talkative + a great teacher. Pleased to say I passed first time with one minor, will miss you Nige.

Fantastic experience: I cannot thank Nigel enough for his incredible patience, professionalism, and dedication. My daughter can be quite nervous and anxious, but Nigel had a calm and encouraging approach that put her at ease from day one. Thanks to his clear guidance and supportive teaching style, she not only gained confidence behind the wheel but also passed her driving test on the first attempt! Communication was excellent - Nigel always responded to messages promptly and went above and beyond to accommodate our scheduling needs whenever possible. If you’re looking for a skilled, understanding, and reliable driving instructor, look no further. We couldn’t have asked for a better experience. Thank you again for helping my daughter achieve this important milestone!

Fantastic experience: I passed first time with only one minor thanks to Nigel's instructions and teaching, his knowledge of test areas were really helpful and Nigel is a patient and calm instructor , cheers Nigel!

Fantastic experience: Passed with only 1 minor. Nigel was thorough, process driven and knowledgeable, and with his help was able to pass so quickly.

Fantastic experience: Nigel was an excellent teacher and helped me to pass my test first time with only 1 minor fault. He’s also a great person and easy to get on with.

Fantastic experience: It has been a pleasure learning to drive with Nigel. He is a fantastic instructor, and builds up your road skills from finding the bite point to tackling tricky roundabouts all whilst keeping the lessons informal and having pleasurable conversations. He is extremely patient, and will work with you perfectly if you learn fast or slow. Overall, I have enjoyed being taught to drive by Nigel, and I would absolutely recommend to pass your test with him too! Thank you Nigel for being an excellent driving instructor. :-)

Fantastic experience: Passed first time, with 1 minor!!!!! Stayed consistent with my lessons and had them regularly which helped a lot. Nigel would always tell me on the things I had to work on and was patient with my progress.

Fantastic experience: I recently completed my driving lessons with Nigel and I couldn't be happier with the experience. From start to finish, Nigel was patient, knowledgeable, and incredibly supportive. One of the things that stood out to me was Nigel's ability to tailor each lesson to my individual needs. He was always willing to listen to my feedback and adjust the lessons accordingly, with the primary goal of helping me become a good driver. Learning to drive was very challenging for me, and I don't say this lightly. At one point, I thought I would never pass the exam. However, with Nigel's patience, understanding, and unwavering support, he helped me pass my exam on the first try with only two minor marks. I have never been so proud of myself! Also, as bonus, Nigel's is very entertaining.

Fantastic experience: Nigel was a great instructor and a great coach through the entire learning journey. I passed first time and can’t thank him enough.

Fantastic experience: Nigel is an excellent teacher, I had him for just over a year and he was very patient and always explained things clearly. I passed first time with only one minor and I could not recommend him enough!

Fantastic experience: Fantastic instructor, really patient, couldn’t have asked for a better instructor for my daughter. Nigel put her at ease at once, gave amazing feedback which helped her pass. I am even booking for my son to start as soon as he turns 17. Thank you again, just amazing

Fantastic experience: Passed with 2 minors. First Gear driving school is a great and easy way to learn to drive. I am very happy with my choice to use First Gear driving.

Fantastic experience: Nigel is a lovely driving instructor, helped me to pass with just 1 minor and my brother as well with no minors. Highly recommend!!

Fantastic experience: Highly recommend Nigel as an instructor for anyone wanting to learn driving skills for life not just for a test. While Nigel makes sure you are test ready, he teaches you all the skills you need to drive confidently and independently way beyond your test. His teaching style is very relaxed which puts you at ease from the start (but you may have to laugh at one or two dad jokes) He was always on time and very professional, thoroughly enjoyed learning to drive with Nigel and managed to pass first time with all the skills he had taught me!

Fantastic experience: Nigel knows exactly what he's doing! I have had my fair share of instructors, and Nigel was by far the best. He understands routes like no other. I would highly recommend him; he is chill to talk to, too, and very professional, never late, and handles it like a business. Great at teaching maneuvers. One thing I will say is to book well in advance because he gets booked up quickly.

Fantastic experience: Just like my brother two years ago, Nigel helped me pass first time with only 1 minor. Great instructor

Fantastic experience: Nigel is an excellent tutor, helped me to pass first time! He was really supportive the whole process and clearly very knowledgeable as a teacher, would definitely recommend to anyone learning to drive!

Fantastic experience: Although I passed my test 20-ish years ago, I haven’t driven since and was TERRIFIED of driving. I decided to have some refresher lessons, and Nigel helped me relearn how to drive safely, teaching me good habits and techniques. While I still don’t think I’ll ever be a professional, Nigel’s lessons have changed me from a nervous, reluctant driver, to one that is keen to keep trying to improve. I now have the skills and knowledge to do this on my own (thanks to Nigel). And I also quite enjoy driving (sometimes). Nigel is patient and observant, and will tell you when you get something wrong and how to improve (he also has some cracking jokes- which are welcome as learning to drive can be stressful). If you want to be a competent, skilled driver, Nigel is for you.

Fantastic experience: Nigel helped me passed 1st time with 3minors! Always made lessons engaging especially with his jokes! Was so patient and always would explain thing carefully thank you for everything

Fantastic experience: Thank you Nigel for helping me pass my test. Covid messed me around with my experience learning to drive and Nigel helped me to become more confident and take the necessary steps towards passing, I can’t thank him enough! Invest in your driving today with 1st Gear.

Fantastic experience: Passed first time thanks to Nigel! A really great instructor and very patient, would definitely reccomend to anyone

Fantastic experience: Passed 1st time today thanks to Nigel. Couldn't have done it without him. Never dull a lesson too Nigel is very funny!

Fantastic experience: Thank you Nigel for all your help getting me to pass! Nigel is very experienced and knowledgeable, he accommodated my needs and is highly reliable. All round great person with some funny jokes up his sleeve and great conversation!

Fantastic experience: Passed with 1 minor! Nigel’s patience, knowledge and experience allows for quick improvements, and his friendly personality results in clear communication which creates a safe and enjoyable experience. I would definitely recommend to friends and family. Thank you very much

Fantastic experience: I passed first time thanks to Nigel. He’s a good instructor with a lot of experience and would recommend him to anyone.

Fantastic experience: Amazing Instructor!! Passed first time with only 1 Minor!!

Fantastic experience: Passed test first time with Nigel, he created a calm and safe environment during driving lessons, provided me with extensive amounts of knowledge for the test and road safety in general. Would recommend to others in the area.

Fantastic experience: Passed first time with 1 minor. Nigel is an extremely good instructor. There was quite a bit of nagging in some of the lessons which all worked out for my end result and I’m so pleased I passed. I appreciate all the help he’s given me and it has been a pleasure to have had him as my instructor.

Fantastic experience: Absolutely great instructor. Genuinely great guy and would 100 percent recommend to anyone

Fantastic experience: Nigel is a fantastic instructor, my son has enjoyed his lessons and passed first time! Thank you!

Fantastic experience: As a driving instructor, Nigel is incredibly knowledgeable. He is an excellent instructor and helped me pass first time with no minors. It has been lovely chatting to him during my lessons and his friendly personality made the whole process so much less daunting. Thank you!!

Fantastic experience: Helpful and constructive advice, passed first time thanks to this, also an extremely lovely man

Fantastic experience: Passed my test first attempt! Nigel is extremely patient and friendly. He made my driving experience safe and calm, and made sure to talk me through everything and any mistakes I made with lots of understanding. During lessons he creates a comfortable atmosphere which massively helped me build confidence on the road. I was terrified for my first lesson but quickly became comfortable thanks to his approach to teaching. I would definitely reccommend him. Thanks Nigel!

Fantastic experience: Best driving instructor out there, passed first try with him.

Fantastic experience: Nigel was a great instructor to learn from, providing clear explanations and guidance, which combined with his expert knowledge of the test, gave me the confidence to pass first time. I was really nervous about driving but Nigel made me feel relaxed enough to enjoy it and I appreciate his patience while doing so. I would highly recommend 1st Gear driving school.

Fantastic experience: I had Nigel for over a year, and he taught me really well and was hugely patient with me. I ended up getting a clean sheet! He has a way of teaching that really works and he makes sure he explains everything well, I’m massively thankful to him for helping me and couldn’t recommend him enough!!

Fantastic experience: As a older learner I was extremely concerned about my ability to learn to drive. With Nigels help I was able to understand what was required and gained the confidence to drive independently. I passed first time and I couldn't have done it without the support and patience of Nigel. Thank you.

Fantastic experience: An amazing teacher! Great teaching methods - I passed 1st time, thanks to Nigel’s help - highly recommend!

Fantastic experience: I passed first time today all thanks to Nigel. He helped me gain so much confidence with my driving and taught me everything I needed to know. I enjoyed every lesson with him. Thank you Nigel!

Fantastic experience: Friendly (but thorough) instructor; passed first time.

Fantastic experience: Nigel had been a great instructor. Honest, fair and extremely patient. I am glad that I was able to pass my test with 1st Gear driving school. Would definitely recommend.

Fantastic experience: Just passed first time, no faults thanks nigel :)

Fantastic experience: Passed my driving test 1st time today and that's all thanks to Nigel. He is a very friendly and professional driving instructor. I would definitely recommend!

Fantastic experience: I've just passed my test on the first attempt thanks to the hard work from Nigel. During lessons he would always take the time to explain to me where I was going wrong, and how to fix those issues. He is very professional and will also keep the atmosphere light hearted during lessons. I am very glad that I chose to learn through 1st gear, and would recommend to anyone that they will be in safe hands with Nigel.

Fantastic experience: Passed first time and my overall experience was lovely

Fantastic experience: Fantastic instructor, passed 1st time. Has taught me and my sister and soon to teach my brother. Very reliable.

Fantastic experience: Nigel is a really friendly, patient instructor and has a great sense of humour, always with a funny anecdote or two up his sleeve, and is also, importantly, able to calmly correct mistakes and offer constructive advice. He’s straightforward about the realities of driving, and I’m glad I passed with his instruction. Thanks again for your time and effort teaching me, I really appreciated it!

Fantastic experience: Passed first time with 1 minor. Thank you for being a patient and observant teacher! Every student has a different learning style and Nigel can adapt to each one, resulting in a confident and competent driver. Thank you!

Fantastic experience: Nigel was a obvious choice. He has the patience experience that is needed to teach a nervous driver to become confident and safe . He has good time keeping and reasonably priced Thanks Nigel I would definitely recommend you

Fantastic experience: Nigel is an excellent instructor and gets the job done. He helped me to pass first time.

Fantastic experience: Nigel helped me pass first time with only 1 minor, aswell as helping others I know pass first time too. I only have positive things to say about Nigel, he's the perfect instructor - a funny man and a great teacher. I would 100% recommend him for driving lessons.

Fantastic experience: Only fair to leave 5 stars! Nigel is an enthusiastic and friendly instructor, his techniques for manoeuvres ensure you always do them correctly without fail and between you, you will work out what is the most comfortable way for you. When making mistakes he was always calm and patient unlike other instructors I have had previously. I passed first time and couldn’t have done it without Nigel’s teaching!

Fantastic experience: Nigel helped my sister and I pass our tests in the first go. He was friendly and made you feel relaxed while driving. He will always make you laugh with his jokes.

Fantastic experience: Nigel really helped me pass my test 1st time round. He is very patient, friendly and communicates very well, always reliable, helped give me confidence with my driving and had very useful guides for all the manoeuvres. Would definitely recommend Nigel to anyone learning how to drive and to pass their test.

Fantastic experience: Passed my driving test first time thanks to Nigel. He is patient, gives useful helpful feedback to help you progess and loves to crack a joke from time to time. Thanks again Nigel.

Fantastic experience: Nigel is absolutely brilliant and I could not recommend him more! When I initially started driving I was very nervous and lacked in confidence but Nigel was funny, knowledgeable and put me at ease throughout my lessons. I passed first time today which I strongly believe would not have been possible without his support and guidance.

Fantastic experience: Nigel taught both my sister and myself, and we both passed our tests first time. He is friendly, helpful, reliable and extremely knowledgeable, and I highly recommend him. Thank you again Nigel!

Fantastic experience: I was very nervous to start with. Thank you Nigel for helping me on the journey to become a more confident driver -I even enjoy driving these days! Your insights and insistence on addressing my default bad habits helped me a lot. You can be proud of what you do and how you help people gain this invaluable life skill

Fantastic experience: Nigel was an amazing instructor, helped me pass confidently first time with only 1 minor. He also helped my brother to pass and teaches others I know who think he’s a great instructor. I would 100% recommend him for driving lessons.

Fantastic experience: Passed on the first attempt thanks to Nigel. Great instructor made the lessons fun with his good sense of humour, while sharing his experience and expertise and giving valuable tips while being calm throughout. Would highly recommend him. My husband had him as his instructor too. He passed too!

Fantastic experience: Nigel was great with Aaron, lessons were inline with the government guidelines. With all the lock downs it must have been difficult but that didn’t stop him getting Aaron through his test and passing first time. We are thrilled I would highly recommend him.

Fantastic experience: My husband pass the test first time today, We couldn’t thank Nigel enough. He had been extremely supportive and helpful to him. It was a long waiting time when we first to book some lessons with him, so we went with another instructor, it didn’t work well, then we asked Nigel again, We were so happy that Nigel managed to book us in after a short wait. We should wait at the first time, we could save so much time and money. Nigel is really professional, he always make full use of the lessons, never waste any moment. He is sharp in spotting the problems, and patient talk through again and again, that is key why my husband pass first time, we are really grateful. So we would definitely recommend Nigel.

Fantastic experience: Nigel was patient and friendly. He gave me some useful hints and was really encouraging Thank you Judi

Fantastic experience: Passed first time with 1 minor. Nigel was excellent, kept calm and gave good instructions. Really nice person would 100% recommend.

Fantastic experience: Nigel is an absolute legend of an instructor! He has always been calm and collective, even when i'm stressing out behind the wheel! Really friendly, gives the right criticisms and teaches you the right way to drive. First time pass with 4 minors, THANK YOU NIGEL

Fantastic experience: I can't thank Nigel enough for the amazing training and incredible patience he showed every lesson. As an incredibly nervous driver he got me to a stage where I passed my test with 0 minors. I am beyond happy I chose 1st Gear and I 1000% recommend to all learners out there! Thanks again Nigel!

Fantastic experience: Highly recommend learning to drive with Nigel, he’ll get you that pass whilst providing great company during lessons too!!!

Fantastic experience: I passed first time with 0 minors with Nigel and it has been such a great experience learning with him. He is very effective at communicating on the road and has a great sense of humour so it was never a dull moment and makes you instantly at ease! I highly recommend him 100%.

Fantastic experience: Nigel taught my son George to drive and we couldn’t recommend him highly enough. George passed first time just a few days ago and he is over the moon to now be out and about without one of his parents in the passenger seat. Nigel was patient throughout and quickly put George at ease giving him the confidence he needed. He also gave us tips and advice along the way. A first class instructor who we will be recommending to anyone wanting to learn how to drive. Thanks Nigel

Fantastic experience: Nigel gave our daughter driving lessons and she passed first time. Nigel gave me constant feedback on her and what we needed to work on, and also zoned in on areas I found she needed help with. Would recommend him to a friend and will definitely ask him to teach my other daughter when her time to drive comes....

Fantastic experience: Nigel is a amazing instructor, always makes you laugh and makes learning to drive 10x more enjoyable&stress free!!

Fantastic experience: Nigel is super friendly and makes you feel comfortable. In my practice lessons he trained me for the road and not only for test. He would calmly explain mistakes and continuously remind to position correctly in good time. He has a real nice car and keeps it very clean and good condition.

Fantastic experience: Excellent communication right from my first enquiry about lessons. Simple process of booking and paying. From the first time meeting Nigel, he put me at ease with his calm attitude and professional manner. I expected my first lesson to be a nerve wracking experience but Nigel made me feel completely relaxed while talking me through the basics and cracking the occasional joke. As lessons progressed, I was able to use my own car which was exactly what I wanted. I then went on to pass in my own car. Overall my learning experience with 1st Gear Driving School has been fantastic. Ive learnt a huge amount, laughed throughout every lesson and felt fully supported every step of the way.

Fantastic experience: Nigel is a great instructor and helped me pass first time along with another instructor Sarah, would highly recommend !

Fantastic experience: As a Key worker during the pandemic, Nigel gave me lessons when I needed them most and enabled me to pass first time! Would highly recommend

Fantastic experience: Nigel was a great instructor and really helped out, especially with mistakes he’d stay calm and was understanding. Passed 1st time so really worth it. Cheers

Fantastic experience: Great instructor, supportive even throughout covid and enabled me to pass first time. Thanks Nigel!

Fantastic experience: Couldn't shout my recommendations loudly enough. Not only did I have lessons with Nigel pre-quarantine but also as I'm a key worker we continued resulting in a pass while in quarantine! Nigel is really easy to learn with, reliable, and it helps that he's actually really funny and friendly. Thanks so much Nige !

Fantastic experience: Highly recommend Nigel!! Nigel was extremely thorough, clear and patient, he is also lovely and great to sit and chat to - which is really important when you're sat next to someone for two hours a week!! I passed first time with no minors!! Thank you Nigel :)

Fantastic experience: Thank you Nigel for helping me pass my driving test. I still can't believe that I passed with just 1 minor!! During the test I always follow the instructions of how you always teach me during the lessons. You not just help me to pass my driving test but also help me to become a better driver on the road.

Fantastic experience: I can't recommend Nigel highly enough. He's great at explaining things in a clear and easy to understand way and provides you with simple methods for the various manoeuvres found in the practical test. He's calm, patient and gives great feedback. I had a fun time learning with Nigel and passed first go. I honestly couldn't have asked for a better teacher, so thank you Nigel!

Fantastic experience: Brilliant instructor, doesn’t mess about and always gives the best advice. Really funny guy who keeps you relaxed even when you’re nervous. Got my friend to pass first time as well!! Highly recommend!!!

Fantastic experience: I would highly recommend Nigel, he's great at explaining all aspects of driving in an easy to understand way and corrected all my bad habits. Great value for money as you come away from each lesson having learned things rather than just paying to practise. Nigel puts a great amount of effort into every lesson which is more than you can say for many other instructors. He's very easy to get along with as well. Cheers Nige!

Fantastic experience: Funny guy & a great Driving Instructor! Passed first time! Thank you Nigel

Fantastic experience: Nigel is hands down the best instructor I've ever had.....had been through quite a few! I passed my test first time around. I chose Nigel and 1st Gear because his pass rate and word of mouth was second to none and it shows. Thank you so much for everything Nigel and your calm, patient way of instructing. Absolutely brilliant. Can recommend 1st Gear extremely highly!

Fantastic experience: Passed first time with only 2 minors. Highly recommend Nigel to anyone. He is a really friendly guy who knows his stuff!

Fantastic experience: Fantastic instructor. Helped me and my brother pass first try, and somehow put up with my silly mistakes far longer than I expected. Plus, if that wasn't enough, friendly, and easy to chat with. Made lessons a much more pleasant experience than I had been expecting.

Fantastic experience: Great instructor, helped me pass first time.

Fantastic experience: Passed first time with six minors! Took us a while, but Nigel was fantastically helpful the whole way through!

Fantastic experience: Fab instructor who helped me pass first time even with a busy schedule and not much time to have lessons! 100% recommend, was patient with me making stupid mistakes and made things so easy to understand - thank you Nigel!!!

Fantastic experience: Past my Test today with 2 Minors, couldn’t ask for anything more, Thanks Nigel I will be sending my brother to you when he’s 17

Fantastic experience: Very good instructor passed with only one minor

Fantastic experience: Excellent driving instructor helps you build your skills and confidence behind the wheel. If you want to pass then definitely go with 1st gear

Fantastic experience: Great Instructor, really easy to get on with. I passed first time no minors!

Fantastic experience: Passed first time. Excellent driving instructor. Very friendly and have great teaching skills. He has great abilities to understand the individual and teach them accordingly. Some of the good things I observed during the classes, 1. Very Patience 2. Boosting confidence by explaining in easy ways. What else we need? Planning to send all my family to this driving school. Thank a lot Nigel for making me a safe Driver.

Fantastic experience: Nigel is great he stuck by me and pushed me to a pass with only 1 minor

Fantastic experience: I would highly, highly recommend Nigel. His experience and desire to help you learn and improve - as well as develop your own understanding and knowledge of the road - is second to none. I past first time and a huge reason for that is down to having Nigel as my tutor. Aside from learning to drive, Nigel is great to spend time with - chatty, friendly and a great sense of humor make the lessons enjoyable and something to look forward to each time. Thanks Nige! - Ben

Fantastic experience: Passed first time. The lessons prepare you for any scenario that you can get on the test, would highly recommend!

Fantastic experience: First time pass! Would definitely recommend to friends. He's always up for a laugh