DIA Mini
Conferences
Exclusive, focused and free online training and development events for DIA members.
Each DIA Mini Conference explores a different topic related to driver or rider education, teaching and training delivery, professional development or running a training business.
Whether you're an experienced ADI, Rider Trainer or currently working towards qualification as a PDI, the sessions are designed to support your development at every stage of your career.
Effective Communication
Why communication?
DVSA has identified communication as a recurring skill gap in both Part 3 tests and Standards Checks. We've seen the same pattern elsewhere too. In complaints against ADIs, and even in professional indemnity claims, poor communication is often at the heart of what went wrong.
Communication runs through almost every part of the National Standards. It is how we impart learning, shapes how well pupils learn and how confident and supported they feel, and is pivotal in how you interact with customers and how your business runs and grows.
Yet communication is rarely taught as a skill in its own right during PDI and ADI training. We think it's time that changed.
Three focused sessions exploring communication
Across the Mini Conference, we'll explore communication from the fundamentals of effective teaching through to adapting your approach and managing professional customer relationships.
The Fundamentals of Communication
Explore how clear explanations, effective questioning, active listening and constructive feedback can improve understanding and encourage pupils to take a more active role in their learning. We will also consider how good communication can help pupils feel more confident, supported and engaged.
Communication for Delivering Training
Every pupil is different. This session will look at how to adapt your language and approach to suit different personalities, learning needs and situations. It will also explore common barriers to communication and how to recognise when your message has not been understood.
Communication for Running a Training School Business
Effective communication extends beyond the lesson itself. This session will explore setting clear expectations, maintaining professional boundaries and handling difficult or sensitive conversations. It will also consider how good communication can strengthen customer relationships and help prevent misunderstandings, complaints and disputes.
Whether you're a PDI developing your instructional skills and preparing for Part 3, an ADI preparing for your next Standards Check, or an experienced Driver or Rider Trainer looking to develop your teaching and business, this Mini Conference will give you practical ideas you can apply to your professional practice.
Book Your Free PlaceCPD connected to the real world of Driver Training.
As a professional body supporting PDIs, ADIs and Rider Trainers, DIA's work gives us insight into the changes, challenges and professional issues affecting trainers at every stage of their career. We bring that experience into our Mini Conferences to create practical, relevant CPD for the profession.
Industry Insight
Drawing on DIA's work with regulators, stakeholders and the wider Driver Training profession.
Real-World Experience
Informed by the questions, challenges and professional issues trainers encounter in practice.
Professional Development
Turning industry knowledge and experience into practical learning for those training to qualify, newly qualified instructors and experienced Driver and Rider Trainers.
Safeguarding and Professional Conduct in Driver Training
Professional conduct and safeguarding are increasingly important parts of the standards expected of Driver Trainers.
We'll explore the updated DVSA Code of Practice for Approved Driving Instructors, what professional conduct means in practice and the essential safeguarding knowledge every Driver Trainer should consider part of their professional development.
Can’t make it live? Watch again.
We know that fitting professional development around lessons, pupils and running your business is not always easy.
DIA Mini Conferences are recorded and added to the Members Area after the event, giving DIA members the freedom to catch up and access their CPD at a time that works for them.
Professional development is just the beginning
Join DIA and access a free Mini Conference and webinar every month – equivalent to four hours of CPD – as well as a growing range of learning and development resources through DIA Academy.
Professional protection, practical support and ongoing development throughout your career.

