survey has showed 2/3rd of instructors don’t want grades.
This justifies 4 of the national association rejecting grades at the start of the teleconference.
So there appears to be no consensus among the ADI’s who responded for grades.
It is also noted that the registrar has now published guidance notes for the Standards Check for instructors, and the grading system remains the same as for the Check Test. There is no legal requirement for grades, this is why the registrar can change them as and when he thinks fit. It is the same with the SC or CT there is a requirement in the regulation for a test of ability, but no description as to the format or content of the check. Although the Standards Check will be based on the National Standards for Driver/Riders these are not in legislation, they are just guidance. It is also noted that motorcycle instructors are not graded.
We can not see why there needs to be grades for those referred to registrar after failing to meet the standard. We would like to see “Grade under review” As for those who have met the standard this we believe is all that is required.
Dib-Unite, after further consultation with their membership are of the opinion that grades are divisive and discriminating.
If there has to be some separation for those who seek to make financial gain from selling courses to those wishing to gain a higher numerical score, then we believe it should be limited to two. Whether these are described with numbers, letters or descriptors this could be debated, but being as the general public have no idea about driving instructor grades it’s immaterial.
Although we can all give opinions and offer suggestions, ultimately the DVSA will do what is deemed in the best interests of the DVSA.
We as instructors will just be required to comply.
We understand from emails received that 2 other national associations have also agreed to go back to their original decision after further consultation with their members to support a straight pass/fail on the Standards Check. These are DIDU and MSA.
So the current position is stalemate on the issue; ADINJC, DIA and DISC in favour of a structured grading scheme similar to what we currently have and Dib-Unite, DIDU