19 Reviews

1st London Driving Academy

Belvedere, Greater London
Reviews
tommy-lee pearson
23 Jun 2026
REPORT
Monika was a brilliant instructor from day one. She genuinely cared about making me a safe and confident driver, not just getting me through a test. What sets her apart is her ability to adapt her te... Read More
Monika was a brilliant instructor from day one. She genuinely cared about making me a safe and confident driver, not just getting me through a test. What sets her apart is her ability to adapt her teaching to the person she’s teaching. She explains things clearly, stays calm under pressure, and always made sure I understood not just what I was doing, but why I was doing it. One particular (and rare thing) I really appreciated about Monika is that she’s completely no nonsense. She’ll tell you what you need to hear, even if it’s not what you want to hear. Sometimes that’s uncomfortable, but it’s exactly what helps you improve,She strives for excellence,She also has a lot of experience and knowledge outside of driving, and some of the conversations we had were just as valuable as the lessons themselves. She was always honest about my progress, pushed me when I needed it (such as when I put off booking my theory for 3 weeks so she watched me book it infront of her and then we could start the lesson 🤣)and helped me achieve something that’s already had a huge positive impact on my life. Definitely more than an instructor, I’d argue she’s a life coach Thank you, Monika (and sorry for taking so long to write this review 🙃) Read Less
Tsegaye Legesse
27 May 2026
REPORT
​Monika is an exceptional driving instructor! With over 22 years of experience, she is punctual, direct with her on-the-spot feedback, and incredibly knowledgeable. Thanks to her, I passed my test on ... Read More
​Monika is an exceptional driving instructor! With over 22 years of experience, she is punctual, direct with her on-the-spot feedback, and incredibly knowledgeable. Thanks to her, I passed my test on the first attempt with zero faults! ​More than just a great teacher, she is humble, deeply supportive, and takes the time to understand and help you if personal stress is affecting your driving. I literally could not have done this without her. If you want to pass with confidence, book your lessons with Monika! Read Less
Vanya Daskalova
26 Mar 2026
REPORT
I would like to express my sincere gratitude to my driving instructor. She is extremely patient, calm, and explains everything in a clear and understandable way. From the very first lesson, she made m... Read More
I would like to express my sincere gratitude to my driving instructor. She is extremely patient, calm, and explains everything in a clear and understandable way. From the very first lesson, she made me feel confident behind the wheel. She always pays attention to details, gives useful advice, and encourages her students to improve. Thanks to her professionalism and support, I was able to improve my skills very quickly and feel safe on the road. The atmosphere during the lessons is pleasant and relaxed, which makes learning much easier. I highly recommend her to anyone who wants to learn how to drive confidently and safely!FILIP ATANASOV Read Less
Kalyan
24 Mar 2026
REPORT
I had an excellent experience learning to drive with Monika. Hands down best instructor. The lessons were well-structured, calm and tailored to my learning pace. She provided very practical feedback a... Read More
I had an excellent experience learning to drive with Monika. Hands down best instructor. The lessons were well-structured, calm and tailored to my learning pace. She provided very practical feedback and her scrutinization was to the point always which helped me reflect on my errors adequately. She helped me improved quickly as well. Thanks to her guidance and support, I was able to pass my practical test on my first go. Highly recommended folks!! Read Less
John Everett
26 Jan 2026
REPORT
I highly recommend Monika D'Agate! Patient, calm and encouraging! Monika was able to give clear, simple and easy to follow instructions. I am so grateful and thankful to her for transforming me into a... Read More
I highly recommend Monika D'Agate! Patient, calm and encouraging! Monika was able to give clear, simple and easy to follow instructions. I am so grateful and thankful to her for transforming me into a confident driver on the road. I passed my exam in the first attempt with 2 minor faults and enjoyed the entire experience of learning with her. I was nervous to begin with but was never made to feel any pressure when mistakes were made. Teaching style was very supportive with a strong ability of how to manage anxiety. Monika was always punctual and flexible with scheduling, the car was clean, regularly checked over and easy to drive. Monika is highly knowledgeable about local test routes. Her feedback was constructive. I felt I wasn't being taught just how to pass the test, but how to be a safe and responsible driver for life. Best instructor in Belvedere! Read Less
Adina Abraham-Rolands
20 Jul 2017
REPORT
Just want to thank Monika so much for helping me pass my test! She was recommended by numerous people we know and taught my brother so I was made very aware of how great a teacher she is. She was alwa... Read More
Just want to thank Monika so much for helping me pass my test! She was recommended by numerous people we know and taught my brother so I was made very aware of how great a teacher she is. She was always patient and I felt at ease driving with her. Thanks again Monika. Read Less
张宛葭
18 May 2017
REPORT
Despite passing my driving test on my first attempt, I was very scared to drive. After four years of having a full license and almost zero time spent on the road, I decided to do something about the s... Read More
Despite passing my driving test on my first attempt, I was very scared to drive. After four years of having a full license and almost zero time spent on the road, I decided to do something about the situation. And I was very lucky to have Monika on my refresher lessons. She established quite quickly that I wasn't having phobias or anxieties. My unwillingness to drive was because I wasn't taught properly last time round. I had to admit that I was very lucky to pass for the first time, that I didn't fully understand a lot of things but were just memorizing and doing as told, and that I wasn't given enough time on high speed (50 mph +) that I never felt comfortable at that kind of speed at all. The resolution was quite simple, but practical - go back to the basics. She was very patient with me as I spent quite sometime to revisit what was taught four years ago. She gave me real time feedback, took the time to listen to me and went in great level of details to explain things that confused me. She was also very nice to me, that I never felt bullied when I made silly mistakes, which was what happen to me last time. She told me why I made the mistakes, and asked me to look forward, which was extremely helpful. Within three months time, I learnt a great deal from her. I was able to go on long journey by myself across the country. I was able to drive, properly, with confidence. And this would not happen without Monika. Read Less
Malgorzata Wasicka Swan
14 May 2017
REPORT
Great teacher, passed 1St time with 4 faults many years ago now!
Courtney Flint
22 Feb 2017
REPORT
Monika was a great teacher! She stays calm, communicates clearly, provides constructive feedback without making you feel ashamed or stupid, and is very flexible in terms of scheduling. I am a licensed... Read More
Monika was a great teacher! She stays calm, communicates clearly, provides constructive feedback without making you feel ashamed or stupid, and is very flexible in terms of scheduling. I am a licensed driver in the US and I really appreciated that Monika was respectful of my experience while helping me to meet the UK standard. Despite my anxieties about the test, Monika prepared me well and I passed on the first go! Read Less
Barbara Dynowicz
23 Nov 2016
REPORT
Thank You thank You thank You
Eileen Hosein
17 Nov 2016
REPORT
Monika was recommended to me by a friend and after hearing the good things he had to say about her, I immediately cancelled the lessons I had booked with another driving school. And I have to say it w... Read More
Monika was recommended to me by a friend and after hearing the good things he had to say about her, I immediately cancelled the lessons I had booked with another driving school. And I have to say it was one of the best decisions that I had ever made. I want to say a big thank you to Monika for her excellent tuition that enabled me to pass my test 11 years after my last test and no driving at all in that time. She is so calm, patient in her explanation and showed so much faith in me, which in turn enabled me to believe in myself. My only regret is that I did not go to Monika sooner. Thank you Monika! Read Less
Samuel Thomas Ignatious
28 Sep 2016
REPORT
Monika was recommended to me by a friend (who couldn't talk highly enough about her) I had previously had lessons with 1st time and let me say categorically, what Monika does for you, as a driver, is ... Read More
Monika was recommended to me by a friend (who couldn't talk highly enough about her) I had previously had lessons with 1st time and let me say categorically, what Monika does for you, as a driver, is nothing short of amazing. She's more that a driving instructor that teaches you out the book. She helps you develop your thinking and your driving IQ by her questioning and just the manner she approaches things. I would highly highly recommended Monika to anyone and will definitly miss the times and stories we shared. All that's left to say is a huge thank you. I appreciate everything you've done for me and am eternally grateful. Read Less
Malgorzata Wasicka
17 Jun 2016
REPORT
The best!!!
Jacqueline Bull
28 Jan 2016
REPORT
Good driving school and excellent teacher. She motivate and make you believe in yourself. Thanks for all your help and first time pass.
Stephanie Fincham-campbell
13 Aug 2015
REPORT
I've got to say I wasn't someone who picked up driving easily not being a practical person, but after doing several lessons a year ago and failing my test I went to Monika after she was highly recomme... Read More
I've got to say I wasn't someone who picked up driving easily not being a practical person, but after doing several lessons a year ago and failing my test I went to Monika after she was highly recommended to me. One of the best decisions I made- at first I was I was hesitant because Monika isn't the cheapest out there- but you seriously get what you pay for. I really enjoyed my lessons, Monika helps you to keep calm, whilst at the same time pushing you to make progress ever...y lesson- I learnt something every time and felt great that I had progressed after each lesson. Monika also tailors her teaching style to you- I found it so useful to do the mock test several times as it was something I was very nervous about. Monika took the mock seriously replicating the exam coditions, after she have detailed feedback and then we drove over the parts of the test I found difficult again. Monika teaches you to drive for life and not just to pass the test- I passed my test with only 3 driver faults and feel that I am a good driver. I also did my Pass Plus with Monika which was well worth the money to learn more about driving on motorways/country lanes and difficult driving conditions- so much that I was confident to do a journey to rural South Wales on my own after only 4 months of passing my test! Monika is a very special and talented lady, she is very passionate about her job and goes above and beyond what she has to do- even accompanying me to make my first car purchase! Monika is also caring, and I really miss her company and positive energy. Can't recommend Monika enough- I promise you won't regret booking with Monika! See More Read Less
Joshua Butt
13 Aug 2015
REPORT
Monika is a 5 star person let alone the driving lessons go beyond 5 stars would highly recommend and I passed first time
Adriano Adu
1 May 2015
REPORT
Want to pass after first time? 1st London Driving Academy is the right choice for you. Thank you Monika
Ekaterina Chukanova
9 Sep 2014
REPORT
As I promised I would like to sing the praises to Monika’s talents. Initially I decided that choice of instructor is more important rather than choice of school. And I must say it was right decision. ... Read More
As I promised I would like to sing the praises to Monika’s talents. Initially I decided that choice of instructor is more important rather than choice of school. And I must say it was right decision. It is said on the web-page that Monika is highly skilled coach and that’s absolute true! I am very demanding person and I could appreciate her competence. She can deal with any kind of people and talk to them and teach them on their level of understanding. It might be housewife or engineer, beginner or experienced driver – Monika will find her way to “bring the truth” and share her skills and experience. What I liked best of all – it never was too easy or too stressful. She could sense when it is getting easier for you and she immediately goes to the next level. Believe me, not every person is so sensitive. First time in my life I was enjoying driving (I was driving a few years before with auto gear) – thank you Monika! That was amazing experience! And she is really-really nice person!!! Highly recommended! Read Less
Jack D
8 Jun 2014
REPORT
Monika is an outstanding driving instructor, her knowledge and understanding of the road is second to none. She has a fantastic way of explaining things and is able to break things down in a manageab... Read More
Monika is an outstanding driving instructor, her knowledge and understanding of the road is second to none. She has a fantastic way of explaining things and is able to break things down in a manageable and achievable way. After initially learning to drive with a number of instructors when I was 17 I took a very long break from learning. Monika was able to understand how to get the most from each session and her coaching method allowed you both to guide your learning. When is took my first test at the age of 17 (with a different instructor) I was so nervous that I could barely press the peddles. However, when I took the test with Monika I felt confident and ready and passed first time! She may cost slightly more than some of the other instructors but I can tell you that it is worth it, I travelled across London for each session as the level of instruction and confidence training is amazing (and you will certainly save money in the long run)! I cannot recommend her enough. Read Less
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Book an Appointment
Online booking unavailable
Please call
07932 009442
61 Poplar Mount
Belvedere Greater London DA17 6DL
Business Hours
Monday
Mon
09:00AM-19:00PM
Tuesday
Tue
09:00AM-19:00PM
Wednesday
Wed
09:00AM-19:00PM
Thursday
Thu
09:00AM-19:00PM
Friday
Fri
09:00AM-19:00PM
Saturday
Sat
09:00AM-19:00PM
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1st London Driving Academy

Belvedere, Greater London
(19)
61 Poplar Mount
Belvedere Greater London DA17 6DL
Monday
09:00AM-19:00PM
Tuesday
09:00AM-19:00PM
Wednesday
09:00AM-19:00PM
Thursday
09:00AM-19:00PM
Friday
09:00AM-19:00PM
Saturday
09:00AM-19:00PM
tommy-lee pearson
23 Jun 2026
REPORT
Monika was a brilliant instructor from day one. She genuinely cared about making me a safe and confident driver, not just getting me through a test. What sets her apart is her ability to adapt her te... Read More
Monika was a brilliant instructor from day one. She genuinely cared about making me a safe and confident driver, not just getting me through a test. What sets her apart is her ability to adapt her teaching to the person she’s teaching. She explains things clearly, stays calm under pressure, and always made sure I understood not just what I was doing, but why I was doing it. One particular (and rare thing) I really appreciated about Monika is that she’s completely no nonsense. She’ll tell you what you need to hear, even if it’s not what you want to hear. Sometimes that’s uncomfortable, but it’s exactly what helps you improve,She strives for excellence,She also has a lot of experience and knowledge outside of driving, and some of the conversations we had were just as valuable as the lessons themselves. She was always honest about my progress, pushed me when I needed it (such as when I put off booking my theory for 3 weeks so she watched me book it infront of her and then we could start the lesson 🤣)and helped me achieve something that’s already had a huge positive impact on my life. Definitely more than an instructor, I’d argue she’s a life coach Thank you, Monika (and sorry for taking so long to write this review 🙃) Read Less
Tsegaye Legesse
27 May 2026
REPORT
​Monika is an exceptional driving instructor! With over 22 years of experience, she is punctual, direct with her on-the-spot feedback, and incredibly knowledgeable. Thanks to her, I passed my test on ... Read More
​Monika is an exceptional driving instructor! With over 22 years of experience, she is punctual, direct with her on-the-spot feedback, and incredibly knowledgeable. Thanks to her, I passed my test on the first attempt with zero faults! ​More than just a great teacher, she is humble, deeply supportive, and takes the time to understand and help you if personal stress is affecting your driving. I literally could not have done this without her. If you want to pass with confidence, book your lessons with Monika! Read Less
Vanya Daskalova
26 Mar 2026
REPORT
I would like to express my sincere gratitude to my driving instructor. She is extremely patient, calm, and explains everything in a clear and understandable way. From the very first lesson, she made m... Read More
I would like to express my sincere gratitude to my driving instructor. She is extremely patient, calm, and explains everything in a clear and understandable way. From the very first lesson, she made me feel confident behind the wheel. She always pays attention to details, gives useful advice, and encourages her students to improve. Thanks to her professionalism and support, I was able to improve my skills very quickly and feel safe on the road. The atmosphere during the lessons is pleasant and relaxed, which makes learning much easier. I highly recommend her to anyone who wants to learn how to drive confidently and safely!FILIP ATANASOV Read Less
Kalyan
24 Mar 2026
REPORT
I had an excellent experience learning to drive with Monika. Hands down best instructor. The lessons were well-structured, calm and tailored to my learning pace. She provided very practical feedback a... Read More
I had an excellent experience learning to drive with Monika. Hands down best instructor. The lessons were well-structured, calm and tailored to my learning pace. She provided very practical feedback and her scrutinization was to the point always which helped me reflect on my errors adequately. She helped me improved quickly as well. Thanks to her guidance and support, I was able to pass my practical test on my first go. Highly recommended folks!! Read Less
John Everett
26 Jan 2026
REPORT
I highly recommend Monika D'Agate! Patient, calm and encouraging! Monika was able to give clear, simple and easy to follow instructions. I am so grateful and thankful to her for transforming me into a... Read More
I highly recommend Monika D'Agate! Patient, calm and encouraging! Monika was able to give clear, simple and easy to follow instructions. I am so grateful and thankful to her for transforming me into a confident driver on the road. I passed my exam in the first attempt with 2 minor faults and enjoyed the entire experience of learning with her. I was nervous to begin with but was never made to feel any pressure when mistakes were made. Teaching style was very supportive with a strong ability of how to manage anxiety. Monika was always punctual and flexible with scheduling, the car was clean, regularly checked over and easy to drive. Monika is highly knowledgeable about local test routes. Her feedback was constructive. I felt I wasn't being taught just how to pass the test, but how to be a safe and responsible driver for life. Best instructor in Belvedere! Read Less
Adina Abraham-Rolands
20 Jul 2017
REPORT
Just want to thank Monika so much for helping me pass my test! She was recommended by numerous people we know and taught my brother so I was made very aware of how great a teacher she is. She was alwa... Read More
Just want to thank Monika so much for helping me pass my test! She was recommended by numerous people we know and taught my brother so I was made very aware of how great a teacher she is. She was always patient and I felt at ease driving with her. Thanks again Monika. Read Less
张宛葭
18 May 2017
REPORT
Despite passing my driving test on my first attempt, I was very scared to drive. After four years of having a full license and almost zero time spent on the road, I decided to do something about the s... Read More
Despite passing my driving test on my first attempt, I was very scared to drive. After four years of having a full license and almost zero time spent on the road, I decided to do something about the situation. And I was very lucky to have Monika on my refresher lessons. She established quite quickly that I wasn't having phobias or anxieties. My unwillingness to drive was because I wasn't taught properly last time round. I had to admit that I was very lucky to pass for the first time, that I didn't fully understand a lot of things but were just memorizing and doing as told, and that I wasn't given enough time on high speed (50 mph +) that I never felt comfortable at that kind of speed at all. The resolution was quite simple, but practical - go back to the basics. She was very patient with me as I spent quite sometime to revisit what was taught four years ago. She gave me real time feedback, took the time to listen to me and went in great level of details to explain things that confused me. She was also very nice to me, that I never felt bullied when I made silly mistakes, which was what happen to me last time. She told me why I made the mistakes, and asked me to look forward, which was extremely helpful. Within three months time, I learnt a great deal from her. I was able to go on long journey by myself across the country. I was able to drive, properly, with confidence. And this would not happen without Monika. Read Less
Malgorzata Wasicka Swan
14 May 2017
REPORT
Great teacher, passed 1St time with 4 faults many years ago now!
Courtney Flint
22 Feb 2017
REPORT
Monika was a great teacher! She stays calm, communicates clearly, provides constructive feedback without making you feel ashamed or stupid, and is very flexible in terms of scheduling. I am a licensed... Read More
Monika was a great teacher! She stays calm, communicates clearly, provides constructive feedback without making you feel ashamed or stupid, and is very flexible in terms of scheduling. I am a licensed driver in the US and I really appreciated that Monika was respectful of my experience while helping me to meet the UK standard. Despite my anxieties about the test, Monika prepared me well and I passed on the first go! Read Less
Barbara Dynowicz
23 Nov 2016
REPORT
Thank You thank You thank You
Eileen Hosein
17 Nov 2016
REPORT
Monika was recommended to me by a friend and after hearing the good things he had to say about her, I immediately cancelled the lessons I had booked with another driving school. And I have to say it w... Read More
Monika was recommended to me by a friend and after hearing the good things he had to say about her, I immediately cancelled the lessons I had booked with another driving school. And I have to say it was one of the best decisions that I had ever made. I want to say a big thank you to Monika for her excellent tuition that enabled me to pass my test 11 years after my last test and no driving at all in that time. She is so calm, patient in her explanation and showed so much faith in me, which in turn enabled me to believe in myself. My only regret is that I did not go to Monika sooner. Thank you Monika! Read Less
Samuel Thomas Ignatious
28 Sep 2016
REPORT
Monika was recommended to me by a friend (who couldn't talk highly enough about her) I had previously had lessons with 1st time and let me say categorically, what Monika does for you, as a driver, is ... Read More
Monika was recommended to me by a friend (who couldn't talk highly enough about her) I had previously had lessons with 1st time and let me say categorically, what Monika does for you, as a driver, is nothing short of amazing. She's more that a driving instructor that teaches you out the book. She helps you develop your thinking and your driving IQ by her questioning and just the manner she approaches things. I would highly highly recommended Monika to anyone and will definitly miss the times and stories we shared. All that's left to say is a huge thank you. I appreciate everything you've done for me and am eternally grateful. Read Less
Malgorzata Wasicka
17 Jun 2016
REPORT
The best!!!
Jacqueline Bull
28 Jan 2016
REPORT
Good driving school and excellent teacher. She motivate and make you believe in yourself. Thanks for all your help and first time pass.
Stephanie Fincham-campbell
13 Aug 2015
REPORT
I've got to say I wasn't someone who picked up driving easily not being a practical person, but after doing several lessons a year ago and failing my test I went to Monika after she was highly recomme... Read More
I've got to say I wasn't someone who picked up driving easily not being a practical person, but after doing several lessons a year ago and failing my test I went to Monika after she was highly recommended to me. One of the best decisions I made- at first I was I was hesitant because Monika isn't the cheapest out there- but you seriously get what you pay for. I really enjoyed my lessons, Monika helps you to keep calm, whilst at the same time pushing you to make progress ever...y lesson- I learnt something every time and felt great that I had progressed after each lesson. Monika also tailors her teaching style to you- I found it so useful to do the mock test several times as it was something I was very nervous about. Monika took the mock seriously replicating the exam coditions, after she have detailed feedback and then we drove over the parts of the test I found difficult again. Monika teaches you to drive for life and not just to pass the test- I passed my test with only 3 driver faults and feel that I am a good driver. I also did my Pass Plus with Monika which was well worth the money to learn more about driving on motorways/country lanes and difficult driving conditions- so much that I was confident to do a journey to rural South Wales on my own after only 4 months of passing my test! Monika is a very special and talented lady, she is very passionate about her job and goes above and beyond what she has to do- even accompanying me to make my first car purchase! Monika is also caring, and I really miss her company and positive energy. Can't recommend Monika enough- I promise you won't regret booking with Monika! See More Read Less
Joshua Butt
13 Aug 2015
REPORT
Monika is a 5 star person let alone the driving lessons go beyond 5 stars would highly recommend and I passed first time
Adriano Adu
1 May 2015
REPORT
Want to pass after first time? 1st London Driving Academy is the right choice for you. Thank you Monika
Ekaterina Chukanova
9 Sep 2014
REPORT
As I promised I would like to sing the praises to Monika’s talents. Initially I decided that choice of instructor is more important rather than choice of school. And I must say it was right decision. ... Read More
As I promised I would like to sing the praises to Monika’s talents. Initially I decided that choice of instructor is more important rather than choice of school. And I must say it was right decision. It is said on the web-page that Monika is highly skilled coach and that’s absolute true! I am very demanding person and I could appreciate her competence. She can deal with any kind of people and talk to them and teach them on their level of understanding. It might be housewife or engineer, beginner or experienced driver – Monika will find her way to “bring the truth” and share her skills and experience. What I liked best of all – it never was too easy or too stressful. She could sense when it is getting easier for you and she immediately goes to the next level. Believe me, not every person is so sensitive. First time in my life I was enjoying driving (I was driving a few years before with auto gear) – thank you Monika! That was amazing experience! And she is really-really nice person!!! Highly recommended! Read Less
Jack D
8 Jun 2014
REPORT
Monika is an outstanding driving instructor, her knowledge and understanding of the road is second to none. She has a fantastic way of explaining things and is able to break things down in a manageab... Read More
Monika is an outstanding driving instructor, her knowledge and understanding of the road is second to none. She has a fantastic way of explaining things and is able to break things down in a manageable and achievable way. After initially learning to drive with a number of instructors when I was 17 I took a very long break from learning. Monika was able to understand how to get the most from each session and her coaching method allowed you both to guide your learning. When is took my first test at the age of 17 (with a different instructor) I was so nervous that I could barely press the peddles. However, when I took the test with Monika I felt confident and ready and passed first time! She may cost slightly more than some of the other instructors but I can tell you that it is worth it, I travelled across London for each session as the level of instruction and confidence training is amazing (and you will certainly save money in the long run)! I cannot recommend her enough. Read Less
Is this your business?
CLAIM IT HERE
Incorrect information? Let us know