21 Reviews

New Starters Driving School

Carlisle, Cumbria
General Info
Want to pass your driving test as soon as to turn 17? Why wait! We can teach you how to drive in the safety of our private site at any age from 14. It has a large tarmac area, T junctions, Box junction. You can learn all the basic's before risking the roads. You'll gain confidence in saftey, learn how to pull up safley, set off safley, steer correctly, Use the gears, Hill starts, T junctions etc etc. Spread the cost of learning to drive over a longer period.
Reviews
Isla Johnston
25 Jun 2026
REPORT
I got recommended New Starters by a few friends and got lessons really quick. I just passed yesterday and want to say a big thank you to my instructor steve he was patient, put me at ease, a very good... Read More
I got recommended New Starters by a few friends and got lessons really quick. I just passed yesterday and want to say a big thank you to my instructor steve he was patient, put me at ease, a very good teacher and of course had a good sense of humour. Thank you so much again highly recommend! Read Less
Gemma Blake
22 Jun 2026
REPORT
John Wills, I’ve been a student of John for just over a year and I wouldn’t have passed my test without him. He’s always been extremely kind, patient, helpful and adds enjoyment and humour into the le... Read More
John Wills, I’ve been a student of John for just over a year and I wouldn’t have passed my test without him. He’s always been extremely kind, patient, helpful and adds enjoyment and humour into the lesson making them 10x more enjoyable! I genuinely wouldn’t be here without him as my instructor I would recommend him to any new starters wanting to get on the roads because his dedication for his students success is like no other. Thanks for everything John! Read Less
Oliver.
27 Apr 2026
REPORT
I passed my driving test last week and I couldn’t recommend Adrian enough as a driving instructor. Every lesson was compact, useful, and packed with valuable information, so I always felt like I was m... Read More
I passed my driving test last week and I couldn’t recommend Adrian enough as a driving instructor. Every lesson was compact, useful, and packed with valuable information, so I always felt like I was making real progress. Adrian is a genuinely nice guy who makes you feel comfortable straight away, which really helps build confidence behind the wheel. His lessons are perfectly structured to help you pass your test, with test routes often used during sessions so you know exactly what to expect on the day. He also teaches the best techniques for completing all the manoeuvres clearly and effectively, making them much easier to understand and perform. Another thing I really appreciated was how Adrian explained everything you need to know about the driving test beforehand, so there were no surprises. If you’re looking for a professional, well priced, friendly, and highly effective instructors, Adrian and New Starters Driving School is definitely the right choice. 10/10 Read Less
Jasmeen
10 Mar 2026
REPORT
I would like to share a review about my instructor, Ade Smith. He is a very good instructor who explained everything to me very clearly and patiently. Because of his excellent teaching, I passed my te... Read More
I would like to share a review about my instructor, Ade Smith. He is a very good instructor who explained everything to me very clearly and patiently. Because of his excellent teaching, I passed my test today. I highly recommend everyone to take lessons from him. He is one of the best instructors. He explains everything very calmly and makes sure you understand each detail properly. Thanks to his guidance and support, I was able to pass my test today. Read Less
Alina Asaftei
26 Jan 2026
REPORT
I had a very frustrating experience New Starters Driving School. My first instructor was great, but unfortunately his licence expired, so I was assigned another instructor — the owner of the school. A... Read More
I had a very frustrating experience New Starters Driving School. My first instructor was great, but unfortunately his licence expired, so I was assigned another instructor — the owner of the school. At the start, he was okay, and I told him I’m a nervous driver who gets stressed while driving. He seemed to understand, and I continued lessons with him, spending over £1500. After my first driving test, I failed. At that point, he told me it was fine to go on holiday for 2 weeks and that when I came back, we would discuss the next steps. I followed his instructions and tried to get back in touch once I returned, calling and sending messages, but received no response. On my last attempt, I asked him to at least give me an answer so I would know whether to continue with him or find another instructor. His only reply was, “I’m just waiting for a test date, that’s it.” After that, I never heard from him again. Because of the lack of communication and support, I had to find a new instructor from a different company on my own — and only then was I able to pass my test. I am extremely disappointed with this school, especially after spending so much money and putting my trust in them. If you are a nervous driver, I would think carefully before choosing this school, as they may leave you unsupported when you need guidance the most. Read Less
Stacey Cowan
11 Jul 2017
REPORT
my 14 year old son had his 1st driving lesson and loved it. finally found something hes intrested in thats not getting him in trouble x
Judy Sutherland
5 Jul 2017
REPORT
Brilliant driving school passing my test has changed my life all thanks to John thank you so much would certainly recommend to anyone ���
Lynne McGregor
22 Apr 2017
REPORT
We got my 15yr old son a driving experience for his birthday.... New starters were amazing.... He had the best time and is itching to go back for another lesson. Can't fault the service
Adam Cooke
16 Apr 2017
REPORT
Instructors are really supportive and helpful. Would definitely recomend
Garry Kenny
6 Apr 2017
REPORT
Many thanks to John Wardle and rebecca .son passed first time. Excellent service. highly recommended
Wendy Evans
6 Apr 2017
REPORT
I can not thank John Collins enough. When my daughter first started learning she was a very nervous driver. He was so patient and gave her confidence. Thank you to John and Rebecca �
Hannah Jane Nelson
3 Mar 2017
REPORT
Thank you so Much to John at New Starters turned me from such a nervous driver into a confident one in the space of one month! Which led me to pass with only 3 Minors! All down to calm and helpful dri... Read More
Thank you so Much to John at New Starters turned me from such a nervous driver into a confident one in the space of one month! Which led me to pass with only 3 Minors! All down to calm and helpful driving instructor Thank you so much! Read Less
Harry Philipson
27 Feb 2017
REPORT
My off-road driving experience was great, learnt lots and had some fun
Lisa Scott
20 Oct 2016
REPORT
Fantastic! My daughter Sophie Scott passed 1st time, the thoughtfulness and praise she got was priceless. John Collins is a legend xxx can't recommend them highly enough. Well done to all at new start... Read More
Fantastic! My daughter Sophie Scott passed 1st time, the thoughtfulness and praise she got was priceless. John Collins is a legend xxx can't recommend them highly enough. Well done to all at new starters x from Lisa Scott. X Read Less
Steve Lemmon
30 Sep 2016
REPORT
I cannot thank Stephen and his team enough for their hard work and dedication in getting me to the point of finally passing my test today! I cannot recommend Stephen and New Starters enough! Thank you... Read More
I cannot thank Stephen and his team enough for their hard work and dedication in getting me to the point of finally passing my test today! I cannot recommend Stephen and New Starters enough! Thank you so much!! x Read Less
Mark Ewbank
16 Sep 2016
REPORT
Passed first time, Stephen is a phenomenal instructor and a really nice bloke. Honesty with his teaching and nothing but the most constructive criticism, You would be foolish to pass this school by. ... Read More
Passed first time, Stephen is a phenomenal instructor and a really nice bloke. Honesty with his teaching and nothing but the most constructive criticism, You would be foolish to pass this school by. Thank you so much Stephen Read Less
Ellie Johnstone
20 Jul 2016
REPORT
Stephen was an amazing instructor, he was friendly and funny and made me look forward to my lessons each week. It helped with the learning process immensely and I passed first time. I would definitely... Read More
Stephen was an amazing instructor, he was friendly and funny and made me look forward to my lessons each week. It helped with the learning process immensely and I passed first time. I would definitely recommend to anyone who I wanting to drive. Read Less
Martin Withers
11 Apr 2016
REPORT
Great instructors. Passed first time, well worth the money which is cheaper than other instructors. My instructor (Stephen) was amazing, great fun, felt as though we really were friend and that it hel... Read More
Great instructors. Passed first time, well worth the money which is cheaper than other instructors. My instructor (Stephen) was amazing, great fun, felt as though we really were friend and that it helped the learning process. Would recommend to anyone and everyone!! Read Less
Anna Stewart
5 Jan 2016
REPORT
The person I tagged is my little sister Wants to learn to drive She had a terrible experience with last instructor After a 2 week gap between lessons and only a few lessons ever!!! he asked her what s... Read More
The person I tagged is my little sister Wants to learn to drive She had a terrible experience with last instructor After a 2 week gap between lessons and only a few lessons ever!!! he asked her what she did at college?... And said she should stick to jobs like a receptionist job as she had a very small short term memory and was very derogative about her! Really put her off driving My dad was furious By my sister refused to give the instructors details to my dad I've just tagged her in this and she's just messaged me And guess what? She's just told me the instructor was you!!!! Disgusted She might not be happy to name and shame but I am! See More Read Less
Ian Floodgate
27 Nov 2015
REPORT
I would thoroughly recommend learning with Stephen. He taught me to drive not just pass the test. He made things so simple and clear for me that they now stick in my mind. As you can see from on here ... Read More
I would thoroughly recommend learning with Stephen. He taught me to drive not just pass the test. He made things so simple and clear for me that they now stick in my mind. As you can see from on here and on Facebook anybody that has passed their test using his services passes with very few faults. Read Less
Daryl Holliday
15 Apr 2015
REPORT
Couldn't be any happier with New Starters! Came in with some lessons under my belt, but still nervy behind the wheel, but after the lessons here, my confidence and ability sky-rocketed. The lessons we... Read More
Couldn't be any happier with New Starters! Came in with some lessons under my belt, but still nervy behind the wheel, but after the lessons here, my confidence and ability sky-rocketed. The lessons were calm and collected, very much at an adaptive pace, allowing one to focus on problem areas and improve without feeling rushed. Every new idea, be it a method or maneuver, is broken down excellently, allowing you to grasp every new concept with incredible ease. If you're looking for an instructor to get you started, go for New Starters, there is no better!! Read Less
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Book an Appointment
Online booking unavailable
Please call
01228 546688
2 Longsowerby Road
Carlisle Cumbria CA2 6EB
Business Hours
Monday
Mon
09:30AM-19:30PM
Tuesday
Tue
09:30AM-19:30PM
Wednesday
Wed
09:30AM-19:30PM
Thursday
Thu
09:30AM-19:30PM
Friday
Fri
09:30AM-19:30PM
Saturday
Sat
09:30AM-19:30PM
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New Starters Driving School

Carlisle, Cumbria
(21)
2 Longsowerby Road
Carlisle Cumbria CA2 6EB
Want to pass your driving test as soon as to turn 17? Why wait! We can teach you how to drive in the safety of our private site at any age from 14. It has a large tarmac area, T junctions, Box junction. You can learn all the basic's before risking the roads. You'll gain confidence in saftey, learn how to pull up safley, set off safley, steer correctly, Use the gears, Hill starts, T junctions etc etc. Spread the cost of learning to drive over a longer period.
Monday
09:30AM-19:30PM
Tuesday
09:30AM-19:30PM
Wednesday
09:30AM-19:30PM
Thursday
09:30AM-19:30PM
Friday
09:30AM-19:30PM
Saturday
09:30AM-19:30PM
Isla Johnston
25 Jun 2026
REPORT
I got recommended New Starters by a few friends and got lessons really quick. I just passed yesterday and want to say a big thank you to my instructor steve he was patient, put me at ease, a very good... Read More
I got recommended New Starters by a few friends and got lessons really quick. I just passed yesterday and want to say a big thank you to my instructor steve he was patient, put me at ease, a very good teacher and of course had a good sense of humour. Thank you so much again highly recommend! Read Less
Gemma Blake
22 Jun 2026
REPORT
John Wills, I’ve been a student of John for just over a year and I wouldn’t have passed my test without him. He’s always been extremely kind, patient, helpful and adds enjoyment and humour into the le... Read More
John Wills, I’ve been a student of John for just over a year and I wouldn’t have passed my test without him. He’s always been extremely kind, patient, helpful and adds enjoyment and humour into the lesson making them 10x more enjoyable! I genuinely wouldn’t be here without him as my instructor I would recommend him to any new starters wanting to get on the roads because his dedication for his students success is like no other. Thanks for everything John! Read Less
Oliver.
27 Apr 2026
REPORT
I passed my driving test last week and I couldn’t recommend Adrian enough as a driving instructor. Every lesson was compact, useful, and packed with valuable information, so I always felt like I was m... Read More
I passed my driving test last week and I couldn’t recommend Adrian enough as a driving instructor. Every lesson was compact, useful, and packed with valuable information, so I always felt like I was making real progress. Adrian is a genuinely nice guy who makes you feel comfortable straight away, which really helps build confidence behind the wheel. His lessons are perfectly structured to help you pass your test, with test routes often used during sessions so you know exactly what to expect on the day. He also teaches the best techniques for completing all the manoeuvres clearly and effectively, making them much easier to understand and perform. Another thing I really appreciated was how Adrian explained everything you need to know about the driving test beforehand, so there were no surprises. If you’re looking for a professional, well priced, friendly, and highly effective instructors, Adrian and New Starters Driving School is definitely the right choice. 10/10 Read Less
Jasmeen
10 Mar 2026
REPORT
I would like to share a review about my instructor, Ade Smith. He is a very good instructor who explained everything to me very clearly and patiently. Because of his excellent teaching, I passed my te... Read More
I would like to share a review about my instructor, Ade Smith. He is a very good instructor who explained everything to me very clearly and patiently. Because of his excellent teaching, I passed my test today. I highly recommend everyone to take lessons from him. He is one of the best instructors. He explains everything very calmly and makes sure you understand each detail properly. Thanks to his guidance and support, I was able to pass my test today. Read Less
Alina Asaftei
26 Jan 2026
REPORT
I had a very frustrating experience New Starters Driving School. My first instructor was great, but unfortunately his licence expired, so I was assigned another instructor — the owner of the school. A... Read More
I had a very frustrating experience New Starters Driving School. My first instructor was great, but unfortunately his licence expired, so I was assigned another instructor — the owner of the school. At the start, he was okay, and I told him I’m a nervous driver who gets stressed while driving. He seemed to understand, and I continued lessons with him, spending over £1500. After my first driving test, I failed. At that point, he told me it was fine to go on holiday for 2 weeks and that when I came back, we would discuss the next steps. I followed his instructions and tried to get back in touch once I returned, calling and sending messages, but received no response. On my last attempt, I asked him to at least give me an answer so I would know whether to continue with him or find another instructor. His only reply was, “I’m just waiting for a test date, that’s it.” After that, I never heard from him again. Because of the lack of communication and support, I had to find a new instructor from a different company on my own — and only then was I able to pass my test. I am extremely disappointed with this school, especially after spending so much money and putting my trust in them. If you are a nervous driver, I would think carefully before choosing this school, as they may leave you unsupported when you need guidance the most. Read Less
Stacey Cowan
11 Jul 2017
REPORT
my 14 year old son had his 1st driving lesson and loved it. finally found something hes intrested in thats not getting him in trouble x
Judy Sutherland
5 Jul 2017
REPORT
Brilliant driving school passing my test has changed my life all thanks to John thank you so much would certainly recommend to anyone ���
Lynne McGregor
22 Apr 2017
REPORT
We got my 15yr old son a driving experience for his birthday.... New starters were amazing.... He had the best time and is itching to go back for another lesson. Can't fault the service
Adam Cooke
16 Apr 2017
REPORT
Instructors are really supportive and helpful. Would definitely recomend
Garry Kenny
6 Apr 2017
REPORT
Many thanks to John Wardle and rebecca .son passed first time. Excellent service. highly recommended
Wendy Evans
6 Apr 2017
REPORT
I can not thank John Collins enough. When my daughter first started learning she was a very nervous driver. He was so patient and gave her confidence. Thank you to John and Rebecca �
Hannah Jane Nelson
3 Mar 2017
REPORT
Thank you so Much to John at New Starters turned me from such a nervous driver into a confident one in the space of one month! Which led me to pass with only 3 Minors! All down to calm and helpful dri... Read More
Thank you so Much to John at New Starters turned me from such a nervous driver into a confident one in the space of one month! Which led me to pass with only 3 Minors! All down to calm and helpful driving instructor Thank you so much! Read Less
Harry Philipson
27 Feb 2017
REPORT
My off-road driving experience was great, learnt lots and had some fun
Lisa Scott
20 Oct 2016
REPORT
Fantastic! My daughter Sophie Scott passed 1st time, the thoughtfulness and praise she got was priceless. John Collins is a legend xxx can't recommend them highly enough. Well done to all at new start... Read More
Fantastic! My daughter Sophie Scott passed 1st time, the thoughtfulness and praise she got was priceless. John Collins is a legend xxx can't recommend them highly enough. Well done to all at new starters x from Lisa Scott. X Read Less
Steve Lemmon
30 Sep 2016
REPORT
I cannot thank Stephen and his team enough for their hard work and dedication in getting me to the point of finally passing my test today! I cannot recommend Stephen and New Starters enough! Thank you... Read More
I cannot thank Stephen and his team enough for their hard work and dedication in getting me to the point of finally passing my test today! I cannot recommend Stephen and New Starters enough! Thank you so much!! x Read Less
Mark Ewbank
16 Sep 2016
REPORT
Passed first time, Stephen is a phenomenal instructor and a really nice bloke. Honesty with his teaching and nothing but the most constructive criticism, You would be foolish to pass this school by. ... Read More
Passed first time, Stephen is a phenomenal instructor and a really nice bloke. Honesty with his teaching and nothing but the most constructive criticism, You would be foolish to pass this school by. Thank you so much Stephen Read Less
Ellie Johnstone
20 Jul 2016
REPORT
Stephen was an amazing instructor, he was friendly and funny and made me look forward to my lessons each week. It helped with the learning process immensely and I passed first time. I would definitely... Read More
Stephen was an amazing instructor, he was friendly and funny and made me look forward to my lessons each week. It helped with the learning process immensely and I passed first time. I would definitely recommend to anyone who I wanting to drive. Read Less
Martin Withers
11 Apr 2016
REPORT
Great instructors. Passed first time, well worth the money which is cheaper than other instructors. My instructor (Stephen) was amazing, great fun, felt as though we really were friend and that it hel... Read More
Great instructors. Passed first time, well worth the money which is cheaper than other instructors. My instructor (Stephen) was amazing, great fun, felt as though we really were friend and that it helped the learning process. Would recommend to anyone and everyone!! Read Less
Anna Stewart
5 Jan 2016
REPORT
The person I tagged is my little sister Wants to learn to drive She had a terrible experience with last instructor After a 2 week gap between lessons and only a few lessons ever!!! he asked her what s... Read More
The person I tagged is my little sister Wants to learn to drive She had a terrible experience with last instructor After a 2 week gap between lessons and only a few lessons ever!!! he asked her what she did at college?... And said she should stick to jobs like a receptionist job as she had a very small short term memory and was very derogative about her! Really put her off driving My dad was furious By my sister refused to give the instructors details to my dad I've just tagged her in this and she's just messaged me And guess what? She's just told me the instructor was you!!!! Disgusted She might not be happy to name and shame but I am! See More Read Less
Ian Floodgate
27 Nov 2015
REPORT
I would thoroughly recommend learning with Stephen. He taught me to drive not just pass the test. He made things so simple and clear for me that they now stick in my mind. As you can see from on here ... Read More
I would thoroughly recommend learning with Stephen. He taught me to drive not just pass the test. He made things so simple and clear for me that they now stick in my mind. As you can see from on here and on Facebook anybody that has passed their test using his services passes with very few faults. Read Less
Daryl Holliday
15 Apr 2015
REPORT
Couldn't be any happier with New Starters! Came in with some lessons under my belt, but still nervy behind the wheel, but after the lessons here, my confidence and ability sky-rocketed. The lessons we... Read More
Couldn't be any happier with New Starters! Came in with some lessons under my belt, but still nervy behind the wheel, but after the lessons here, my confidence and ability sky-rocketed. The lessons were calm and collected, very much at an adaptive pace, allowing one to focus on problem areas and improve without feeling rushed. Every new idea, be it a method or maneuver, is broken down excellently, allowing you to grasp every new concept with incredible ease. If you're looking for an instructor to get you started, go for New Starters, there is no better!! Read Less
Is this your business?
CLAIM IT HERE
Incorrect information? Let us know