Take Charge Training

Negative experience: I paid the full DAS upfront and had a nightmare experience. After just one assessment, James decided I wasn’t ready for my MOD tests and postponed them without giving me new dates. Lesson organisation was chaotic, with random emails about times and locations. While MOD1 lessons were okay, James constantly overreacted to small mistakes, shouting instead of supporting. During MOD2 practice, I was already nervous from his behaviour and made some errors like missed checks and a gear change mistake. When I accidentally over-revved his bike, he completely lost control, screamed at me, stopped the lesson in front of another trainee, and told me he wouldn’t continue my DAS. He even called a recovery truck, operated by his wife, for a bike that wasn’t damaged, charged me £150, and refunded less than half of what I had paid. James’s lack of professionalism and emotional control makes him completely unsuited to teaching. I strongly recommend AVOIDING THIS SCHOOL!!!!

Fantastic experience: Great experience getting through DAS Mod2. Calm and helpful. Highly recommend.

Fantastic experience: I originally did my cbt with James and sonia in 2022 and then did it again when it ran out in 24. I like the way he teaches and makes sure you understand where you went wrong and helps you correct the issue. I have passed my mod 1 and 2 with the massive thanks to James been a great instructor from day 1 of my riding journey, he only has your best interest and safety in mind you have to be prepared to learn and take on board what he tells you. 100% recommended this awesome couple, we had some good laughs and an enjoyable experience, thanks again James massively appreciate you for getting me through my tests.

Fantastic experience: Started my biking experience with James and Sonia at TCT late last year, successfully completing my CBT back in November. Took some time out, before returning several months later for the Module 1 and Module 2 course, passed successfully. Completed the training and took the tests on my Maeving RM1S Electric Motorcycle, with James and Sonia allowing me to recharge my battery level on occasions before heading home after our training sessions, for which I was truly grateful. Their knowledge, understanding, patience and encouragement gave me the confidence to ride and enjoy the freedom 2 wheels can bring to your life. Sonia excelled in planning and communication, while James consistently demonstrated enthusiasm and safety awareness for the trainees, himself and other road users throughout our time together. If your even considering taking up motorcycling, get in touch with Take Charge Training, I had a brilliant time, and most of all they made it fun and enjoyable. Many thanks James and Sonia…..

Negative experience: I attended a CBT at the start of May 2025 with Take Charge Training. If you are in a rush, the take home message is - I DO NOT RECOMMEND THIS COMPANY. We will go with a 'pros/cons' list and I'll expand later. Pro - - Easy access location. - The training area is in the carpark if a motorbike showroom. So it's quite inspiring to see all the cool bikes as you learn. - Good coffee machine within the showroom that students have access to. - It's competitively priced. - The assistant instructor (Sonia) is good. Cons - - The training area is in the carpark of a motorbike showroom. This means the instructor (James) is on eggshells throughout the CBT incase one of his students plough through some expensive showroom bikes. And this nervous, negative energy is directed at students. - The instructor (James) expects/demands that students have prior experience on motorbikes before attending his CBT. - You have very little actual training time in the saddle. On the day of my CBT, I was one of three students on my CBT. I was a newbie, one student had done a CBT a couple of years ago and one student had failed his last CBT with the instructor (James) the previous week. The start to the course was good. Warm hello from the assistant instructor (Sonia) and James. We had an introduction to what a CBT is and to a 125cc bike. All well so far. Then the instructor (James) asks us what experience of bikes we have. When I replied that I have none, the instructor (in front of everyone) told me that 'You aren't here to be trained on how to ride a bike, you should already have experience on how to ride a bike before attending.' When I asked how I am supposed to get experience, the instructor replied 'Most people ride their family or friends bikes first'. I told the instructor (James) that nowhere during the booking - in process (via email) did it say I had to have previous biking experience. I was actually asked what experience I had on the email (none) and neither Sonia or James said anything. It literally states on the TCT website - Compulsory Basic Training or CBT is where it all starts, this course is designed to help people get familiar with motorcycles and show you how to ride them safely on the road...' He actually asked, in a condescending tone, if I could ride a push bike. Twice, during my CBT with TCT, the instructor (James) has to be taken away by the assistant instructor (Sonia) and calmed down if a student over - revved an engine or stalled or something equally trivia. James's lack of emotional control is concerning, considering he is supposed to be a trainer. I overheard James stating to his wife that '...I have to worry about all the Shirlaws bikes...'. If you are worried about the small chance of a student crashing into a showroom bike, to the point you can't keep your cool, you shouldn't have your training area in a showroom car park. I was stopped from progressing through the CBT after lunch. I have no idea why, James never bothered telling me. The bloke that failed his last CBT with James failed again. so two out of three fails that day. The reason I chose TCT is because I was actually recommended James (instructor) as an instructor. He trained a biking colleague of mine back when James was an instructor for a different ATB. Given what I experienced, I reckon James may have been a good instructor but the pressure of teaching when it's his own business makes him too nervous. I'll try to end this on a good note, TCT did offer to give me an auto CBT course for free six weeks later, which I politely declined. I wanted to ride a bike, not a scooter. I then found another CBT course that doesn't expect it's trainees to be proficient in motorbike riding and passed.

Fantastic experience: Completed my cbt with james and came back a few months later for the direct access course passed with no faults. its 100% worth it, he's very patient and teaches you for life highly recommend.

Fantastic experience: I owe my success in passing mod 2 and obtaining my A2 license to James and Sonia! If you're looking for an instructor, I wholeheartedly recommend TCT, I can't imagine a better option! At first, I was worried about my height as I’m 5'1, but we started with mod1 training, which helped me gain confidence on the bike. Now, I have no issues managing larger bikes. They genuinely focus on your needs while ensuring you stay on course for your mod1 and 2. If your on the hunt for an instructor, I would look no further than TCT

Fantastic experience: I went with TCT for my A2 lisence as they were recommended to me by others and I have just passed my mod 2 today. Really good communication for organising dates etc, and a really high standard of training provided throughout the course. What I liked the most was James doesnt just train you to pass the tests, he trains you to be a better and safer rider. 10/10 experience and I cant wait to do my full A lisence with them when I can.

Fantastic experience: Having been off bikes for a number of years, I wanted a route back into biking to evaluate how rusty my skills were. Contacted TCT as they offered a Back to Biking course. Communications from Sonia were excellent and the day itself with James was also very good. Was a bit of an eye opener for me but I felt I did okay thanks to the positive assurances from James during the ride and at breaks. Just need to remember to cancel that bloody indicator!! Thanks again TCT.

Fantastic experience: Very patient and helpful to make sure you are safe for riding on the highway ,and the knowledge I learnt will stay with me

Fantastic experience: James and Sonia are so friendly and helpful. My Son Duncan enjoyed his CBT training witge them.

Fantastic experience: Completed my CBT with James, went at a pace based off my skill level so felt really comfortable throughout and learned a heap. Looking forward to my direct access.

Fantastic experience: Take Charge put me through my CBT, Mod 1 and Mod 2. Can't recommend James and Sonia enough for your training. Had a brilliant time

Fantastic experience: Hi Take Charge Training. Aberdeen. James & Sonia Maitland. I would like to say’ Thank You Very Much’ for all your Help Guidance and Support’ in getting me through my Full Motorcycle Licence. Sonia thanks for all your help with planning my course and Bike Mechanics. At times James’ I know I drove you to Dispair’ But this is Testament to how Brilliant you are as an Instructor, and a person, listening to you with all your knowledge and years of experience has given me a brilliant foundation and makes me so Confident for the Future, and thanks also for all the other times when you went further than you needed to. Regards Kev. Aberdeen.

Fantastic experience: Just passed my CBT with the help of James and Sonia. Extremely attentive and knowledgeable. Make you feel very welcome and relaxed for new comers like myself with little experience. Felt supported and encouraged throughout the whole experience and well worth the time and money. Great attitude towards safety and ensuring you know your options going forward from CBT. Highly recommend.

Fantastic experience: Huge thank you to James and Sonia for helping me pass my mod 1 and mod 2 tests perfectly, very patient and kind on the road and a good laugh!

Fantastic experience: 1st class training, super patient and really fine folks. Will be continuing my bike instruction with them going forward and would recommend James and Sonia to anyone looking for bike training without hesitation!

Fantastic experience: Massive thanks to James and Sonia at take charge training for getting me through my CBT and MOD 1&2, the instruction from James was superb, second to non and the communication with Sonia throughout the course was brilliant, always kept in the loop wind, rain or snow ! I’ll be sure to give yous a wave if I see you on the roads. Couldn’t recommend TCT more highly, learning made easy with passionate individuals. Thanks again guys !

Fantastic experience: Having a job that has a shift pattern, I thought this may be a issue getting booked in. But not for James and Sonia, just asked for my availability and that was it they did the rest, even with the weather my mod 1 and 2 had to be rescheduled test centre issues not TCT, but then again no issues they worked around me to get me rebooked nice and easy, as for the training was first class took time to explain each element and gives you the confidence to carry out your test. Guys thank you very much was an absolute pleasure. And the friends of mine that are going for it soon will definitely be in touch.

Fantastic experience: If you need to learn to ride a motorcycle I more than recommend going to James and Sonia: they will train you and tell you all the bits and tricks to make you a good rider, a safe rider and hence pass the tests. They are artisans and therefore absolutely care about their craft, they care about people. James will adapt to yourself and pick up what you need to improve and will help you built your confidence on the bike and on the roads. Plus James has an absolute lovely voice... I am going to miss his voice in my helmet but it is forever engraved and I will hear him saying “faster” or “do your checks” or “go on” or “very good, bravo Véronique” Two beautiful people.

Fantastic experience: I passed my Mod 2 test with TCT yesterday, and I remember James was way more nervous than me! if that means something, it means he really cares. He doesn't prepare you to pass the test he does it to make you better riders . Trust me, it doesn't matter what experience you have. James will take you back to school with the amount of knowledge and experience he has, Sonia and James thank you so much for your time and effort to let me built up my confidence again, the right people for this job 100% highly recommended,

Fantastic experience: James and Sonia went above and beyond to accommodate me through my CBT, course is done professionally and efficiently. Will definitely be back for my A2 direct access when the time comes

Fantastic experience: Don't hesitate to book any motorcycle training with James and Sonia, you won't be dissapointed. Absolutely go beyond the call of duty to help you and make you feel like you can pass. James wants to train you as a good /safe rider not just scrape a pass, superb level of training and genuine desire to take an interest in seeing you pass. Thanks a lot for your help... Was a pleasure....

Fantastic experience: I went to james and sonia at take charge training and im glad i never looked elsewhere, they got me threw my cbt, mod1 and mod2 in no time, james strives to make you the best rider you can be not simply pass the test for this i would 100% recommend

Fantastic experience: I done my CBT with James October 2021 and then came back and done my DAS in April 2023. James makes sure you are ready before putting you forward for your tests, very friendly and knowledgeable instructor. Takes time to understand you and what you need to get you test ready. Would recommend him to anyone who asks where I done my CBT and DAS.

Fantastic experience: 5* training, passed first time on CBT, MOD1&2 with James with no faults. Highly recommend for anyone looking to sit their bike test

Fantastic experience: I passed my CBT and mods 1 and 2 using TCT. Couldn't ask for a better instructor. James was fantastic and I would highly recommend to anyone looking to get their motorbike licence. He went above and beyond, believed in me more than I did myself, no question was left unanswered and nothing was too much trouble. He prepares you to be the best, not just scrape a pass. Follow what he says, listen to his advice and you will be sure to pass well. Sonia was friendly and helpful, working in the background to make everything run smoothly. It was a brilliant experience learning with TCT and want to say a huge thank you.

Fantastic experience: Huge thanks to James and Sonia for helping me get my CBT, Sonia was so patient and understanding with me, James completely puts you at ease and both have an incredible sense of humour and extremely professional. Really can't thank you guys enough for all of the help and support. I shall be back to do my Mod 1 with you once I've had a bit more practice on my little scooter.

Fantastic experience: Excellent training school - James helped me get rid of some bad habits that I had picked up. I managed to pass my Mod1 and Mod2 first time. Sonia and James were very accommodating and were happy to re-arrange lessons etc. Highly recommend!

Fantastic experience: Passed my DAS with James and Sonia today and am over the moon. James is a fantastic instructor, patient, friendly and believed in me even when I didn’t. I came to James 6 months after I did my CBT, with the CBT being my first experience on a bike and within a few lessons of James’s instruction we agreed to move forward with DAS. I can’t recommend and thank James and Sonia enough for all their hard work.

Fantastic experience: Recently completed my CBT with James and Sonia, from start to finish the group had 5 star treatment no matter what level we were at, with it being really hot on the day we had plenty of water breaks to keep hydrated, during the training James was really patient and explained things very well and clear with a great attitude. For the training I used my own Bike and my own protective gear but if you come without it, James and Sonia will have you covered with quality stuff. At the start I was quite nervous about going out on the open road but that was soon gone after some quality training James made sure we were all well prepared. Overall if you’re looking to get your CBT done this is the place to go! Highly recommend Patryk

Fantastic experience: Great experience learning from James. His knowledge and biking experience reflects on his teaching. Would highly recommend

Fantastic experience: Passed my CBT with James and Sonia this weekend after less than a day of training. I had never been on a motorbike before but have some novice road experience. My biggest concern was being out on the road as a newbie but James did a fantastic job making me and the other gentleman I was with feel safe - it's a lot different than driving a car, way more fun. There were both manual and automatic bikes to practice on, lots of privacy where we practiced and enough rest breaks to enjoy riding both in the training centre and out on the road. All in all, would highly recommend.

Fantastic experience: Just passed my CBT with James and Sonia. I was extremely impressed with them both. Instantly felt in safe hands. James expert knowledge and friendly way of explaining everything made the whole day very enjoyable. The learning was well structured and delivered at a speed that made us feel like we were progressing well and safely. Can't wait to go back and do my DAS with them. Really impressed, great kit and went above and beyond. Cheers James and Sonia

Fantastic experience: Passed my cbt & das training with James, An excellent informative & friendly instructor who is truly passionate about motorcycling. Top notch equipment & machinary plus James's expert tuition made the whole experience a pleasure,. Would happily recommend to anyone considering taking up motorcycling. 10 stars in my book!

Fantastic experience: Did my CBT here with James. A great experience all round. Professional, friendly, knowledgeable and patient. Passed first time. James takes pride in his role and company and the effects are obvious. Even the hi-vis tabards were next-level. Very quick turnaround on contact and enquiries. Can’t recommend enough. Will be back for my DAS!