Meet the ADIs: Stewart Latcham & Family

By Blind Spot DriveBlog

Meet the ADIs: Stewart Latcham & Family

Outline

1. Introduction
   • Overview of KSL Driving School
   • The Latcham family’s journey
2. The Beginnings of KSL Driving School
   • Closure of Stewart’s previous driving school
   • Founding KSL with Karen Latcham
3. The Family Business Model
   • Franchises with Tom, Dan, and Graham
   • Why family is key
4. Advantages of a Family-Run Driving School
   • Enhanced communication
   • Trust and peer support
5. Stewart Latcham’s Perspective
   • Motivations for starting the business
   • The rewards of teaching
6. Karen Latcham’s Contributions
   • Management and organizational expertise
   • Ensuring instructor support
7. Tom Latcham: The Next Generation
   • Becoming an ADI at 22
   • Incorporating modern tools and strategies
8. Dan McCabe: A Close Friend Turned Family
   • His role in the business
   • Why he values the family atmosphere
9. Graham Turney: The Son-in-Law’s Involvement
   • Balancing family life and career
   • Sales and marketing skills
10. Teaching Philosophy at KSL
    • Relaxed and tailored instruction
    • Building confidence in students
11. Challenges in the Driving School Business
    • Managing uncommitted pupils
    • Balancing demand and resources
12. Technological Advancements
    • Digital presence and website updates
    • Leveraging Theory Test Pro
13. Current Business Challenges
    • Turning away pupils due to high demand
    • Expanding instructor capacity
14. Future Plans for KSL Driving School
    • Introducing CPD events
    • Training the next generation of instructors
15. Conclusion
    • Celebrating family success
    • Commitment to excellence
16. FAQs
    • How can I join KSL as an instructor?
    • What makes KSL unique?
    • Do family businesses have a better reputation?
    • How does KSL support its instructors?
    • What future technologies will KSL incorporate?

Introduction

Every successful family business begins with a dream and a vision to create something unique. KSL Driving School, based in Stafford and Telford, exemplifies the best of both. Founded by Stewart and Karen Latcham in 2009, the school has grown into a thriving family-run business, setting a standard in driving education while keeping it all in the family.

The Beginnings of KSL Driving School

When the driving school Stewart worked for closed, he saw it as an opportunity to strike out on his own. With his wife Karen by his side, they started KSL Driving School, naming it after their shared vision of providing exceptional driving lessons tailored to each student.

The Family Business Model

KSL Driving School quickly expanded, bringing family members and close friends into the fold. Their son, Tom, joined as a qualified driving instructor at the age of 22 in 2016, followed by family friend Dan McCabe and son-in-law Graham Turney.

This familial approach allowed them to foster a supportive and collaborative environment, where mutual trust and shared goals kept the business thriving.

Advantages of a Family-Run Driving School

Operating as a family offers unique benefits. The Latchams use their close communication to create seamless lesson plans and conduct mock tests for each other’s pupils. This ensures consistency and high-quality training, which translates to excellent pass rates and glowing recommendations.

Stewart Latcham’s Perspective

For Stewart, the appeal of running a driving school lies in the joy of teaching and shaping confident drivers. “It’s incredibly rewarding to see a student progress from nervous beginnings to confidently holding their driving certificate,” he shares.

Karen Latcham’s Contributions

Karen, with her background in management and teaching, ensures that instructors receive the necessary support. From organizing monthly team meetings to streamlining training materials, her role is crucial in maintaining the school’s reputation.

Tom Latcham: The Next Generation

Tom’s youthful energy has brought fresh ideas to KSL. From enhancing the school’s digital presence to using his photography skills for branding, he bridges the gap between traditional teaching and modern technology.

Dan McCabe: A Close Friend Turned Family

Dan, a trusted family friend, credits the supportive environment for his decision to join KSL. His approach resonates with young learners, making him an integral part of the team.

Graham Turney: The Son-in-Law’s Involvement

Graham’s background in sales and marketing complements the team’s efforts to grow the business. His flexibility allows him to balance family life and professional responsibilities effortlessly.

Teaching Philosophy at KSL

The Latchams believe in creating a relaxed, stress-free learning environment. They adapt their teaching methods to suit each student, ensuring every pupil has the best chance of success.

Challenges in the Driving School Business

Running a driving school comes with its challenges. Managing uncommitted pupils and turning away potential students due to instructor shortages are ongoing hurdles for KSL.

Technological Advancements

The integration of tools like Theory Test Pro has elevated KSL’s training methods. This app enables students to study on the go while allowing instructors to monitor progress effectively.

Future Plans for KSL Driving School

Looking ahead, KSL aims to train new instructors and introduce CPD events. Expanding their team to meet growing demand remains a top priority.

Conclusion

KSL Driving School is a shining example of how family-run businesses can thrive. With shared values, a passion for teaching, and a commitment to excellence, the Latchams continue to shape safe, confident drivers.

FAQs

1. How can I join KSL as an instructor?
You can contact KSL directly through their website to inquire about opportunities.

2. What makes KSL unique?
Their family-focused approach and tailored instruction set them apart from other schools.

3. Do family businesses have a better reputation?
Family-run businesses often benefit from trust, consistency, and personalized service.

4. How does KSL support its instructors?
Through regular team meetings, training sessions, and peer support, KSL ensures every instructor feels valued.

5. What future technologies will KSL incorporate?
KSL plans to continue leveraging digital tools and apps to enhance the learning experience.

Main image by pexels