MotorV8 Driving School in Downham Market expands in spite of Covid-19 pandemic

A driving school business in Downham is stepping up a gear in spite of the Covid-19 crisis by expanding its team of instructors.

MotorV8 Driving School was set up in March 2019 with just one instructor and one car.

But despite a successful first year being interrupted by the coronavirus lockdown, owner Sarah Kennedy now leads a team of five instructors, having just welcomed on board her latest driver.

“When I launched MotorV8 it was just me and my car, so to now have a fleet of five branded vehicles on West Norfolk’s roads within the space of 18 months, and during a very tough time, is really very special,” said Sarah, who is joined in the business by her husband, Nathan.

“The coronavirus pandemic has hit us hard as we had to stop all lessons for several months, but since we began teaching again it has been non-stop busy.

“Adapting to the situation, making sure we use face masks and take other safety precautions, is a vital part of progressing the business during such a challenging time and helps ensure we continue with our high pass rate.”

Sarah has been a driving instructor for six years and as well as teaching new drivers, she also coaches people wanting to switch careers and become an instructor.

The business has just added Daniel Rix, a former chef from Runcton Holme, who joins a team offering lessons in the Lynn, Downham and Swaffham areas, including intensive courses, theory test support and automatic transmission lessons.

“It’s great to welcome Dan to MotorV8,” said Sarah. “He is a great instructor, a relaxed tutor and someone who I know will be a vital part of our future success.”

Daniel added: “I have known Sarah and Nathan for some time. Seeing how they set up MotorV8 and how the business has gone from strength to strength inspired me to train as a driving instructor.

“They have such passion for what they do and incredibly high standards. When a chance came to join the team I couldn’t pass up the opportunity.”