Peter Skelton Driving School provide automatic driving lessons in Newbury, Thatcham and Basingstoke. Automatic driving lessons were something of a rarity many years ago to the extent I rarely ever got asked if I do them. Nowadays possibly 50 per cent of enquiries are for such lessons.

For some learners, automatic driving lessons can reduce the overall time needed to reach test standard. With fewer mechanical skills to master, lessons can focus more on decision making, planning and safe driving techniques. This can be particularly helpful for learners who struggle with coordination or feel overwhelmed in a manual car.

Why choose Peter Skelton Driving School

• • Male and female instructors
  • Manual and automatic
  • Catering to nervous and anxious pupils
  • All lessons are taken at your own pace
  • High pass rates
  • Intensive and semi-intensive courses available
  • Free theory training
  • The highest standards of tuition
  • Motorway lessons
  • Refresher lessons

Now is a good time if you do want to take automatic lessons. We have instructors at the ready to teach you. All lessons will be conducted at your own pace. All instructors are trained and work to the highest standards. It is something we insist on. You are not just taking driving lessons to pass a test but to also help you to become a safe and competent driver. Our instructors will guide you step by step through all the skills required, starting with the very basics up to driving independently. We will of course tailor your lessons to your current ability level as some people may have driven before or have a better or natural aptitude to driving.

Learning to drive in an automatic car has become an increasingly popular choice in the UK, particularly as technology and vehicle design continue to evolve. While manual cars have traditionally been the standard, there are several clear benefits to learning in an automatic, especially for new or nervous drivers.

One of the biggest advantages of an automatic car is simplicity. Without the need to control a clutch or change gears, learners can focus more fully on steering, observation, positioning and hazard awareness. This often makes the early stages of learning far less stressful, allowing progress to be made more quickly and confidently. Many learners find that removing the complexity of clutch control helps them feel more relaxed behind the wheel.

Automatic cars can also make driving in busy towns and areas with heavy traffic much easier. Situations like stop start traffic, hill starts and junctions are all simpler when the car manages the gears automatically. This can be particularly beneficial in urban environments where frequent gear changes in a manual car can become tiring and distracting.

Another key benefit is smoother driving. Automatic transmissions are designed to change gear seamlessly, reducing the risk of stalling or jerky movement. This leads to a more comfortable driving experience for both the learner and passengers, and can help build confidence more quickly.

Learning in an automatic also reflects the future of motoring. Electric vehicles and many hybrid cars are automatic by design, with no clutch or manual gearbox. As the UK moves towards increased use of electric vehicles, automatic driving skills are becoming more relevant and practical for long-term use.

While passing in an automatic restricts drivers to automatic vehicles only, the benefits often outweigh this limitation for many people. Learning in an automatic car offers a simpler, smoother and easier way to learn to drive, helping learners gain confidence and competence more quickly and enjoy the learning process.