Mike Parris

I’m Mike. I have a varied background that has involved both teaching and driving; I thought it was about time I combined the two so I could bring together my wide experience and extensive skills.

I have been driving a car for 34 years and also hold my PCV licence to drive a bus - this has given me a great appreciation for the wide variety of road users and potential hazards that learners will encounter. Additionally, I spent 12 years serving with the police force as a Special Constable; I particularly enjoyed the time I spent with the Roads Policing Group, but it also gave me first-hand experience of the results of poor driving and sparked a passion for road safety.

I have a background in music education, teaching drums in local schools for many years and to a wide range of students, some with additional needs. This experience taught me the vital importance of adapting my lessons to the individual and helped me to develop a patient and supportive teaching style. When you learn to drive with me, I will ensure that every lesson has a structure and a goal - I will help you to pass your test and set you up with a skill for life!

As I have lived in Harrogate and Knaresborough for over 40 years, I have an excellent knowledge of the area’s roads and can design a wide range of busy and quieter routes to help you learn to drive in any situation.