John Robinson: Driving His Future Forward

From van deliveries to HGV driving: building a future with Laversdale Timber.

Building Skills, Confidence and a Future.

From making multi-drop deliveries in a van to gaining his Cat C+E licence, John Robinson has taken an exciting step forward in his professional driving career.

Already working at Laversdale Timber, his family’s business, John was keen to continue developing his skills, take on greater responsibility and prepare for new opportunities within the company.
Through a Skills Bootcamp with SP Training, John was able to work towards his Cat C+E licence, building the practical experience and confidence needed to make the move from van driving to an articulated lorry.

With his test now successfully passed, John is looking forward to putting his new skills to good use.

Taking the Next Step

For John, the decision to complete his HGV training was driven by his ambition to progress within Laversdale Timber.

Having already gained experience making deliveries in a van, he wanted to expand his driving skills and become more involved in the business as it continues to develop.

However, moving from a car and van to an articulated lorry was a significant step, and John admits that building his confidence was one of his biggest challenges.

“The biggest thing was building my confidence going from a car to an artic.”

Although the transition initially felt daunting, John’s determination to progress helped him embrace the challenge and make the most of his training.

Building Confidence Behind the Wheel

Throughout his Skills Bootcamp, John worked closely with SP Training instructor Paul, gaining hands-on experience and developing the skills needed to drive an articulated vehicle safely and confidently.

Having an experienced instructor alongside him made a real difference, particularly as John became more comfortable handling a much larger vehicle.

“Paul’s been great. The practical experience really builds your confidence.”

With Paul’s guidance and encouragement, John was able to overcome his initial nerves and build confidence in his own abilities. The support he received extended beyond his instructor, with the wider SP Training team helping to make his learning experience a positive one.

And when asked how he would describe that support, John’s answer was wonderfully straightforward:

“Mint! Everyone’s made it straightforward and easy.”

More Than Just a Licence

For John, successfully gaining his Cat C+E licence represents more than a new qualification.

The experience has helped him develop his knowledge, improve his practical driving skills and, perhaps most importantly, believe in what he is capable of achieving.

“It’s improved my confidence and made me feel proud of myself.”

That sense of achievement is particularly meaningful because of John’s connection to Laversdale Timber.

As a member of the family business, he is committed to developing his career within the company. Gaining his HGV licence gives him the opportunity to take on new responsibilities and contribute in different ways as the business moves forward.

With encouragement from his employer and the support of SP Training, John has taken an important step towards those ambitions.

Looking Ahead

Having successfully completed his Cat C+E training, John is looking forward to continuing his development at Laversdale Timber and making use of his new qualification.

He would happily recommend the Skills Bootcamp to others considering professional driver training, particularly because of the practical experience and support he received throughout his journey.

And his advice to anyone thinking about taking that first step?

“Do it – driving is great!”

John’s journey highlights the difference that determination, supportive employers and quality training can make.

From his first experiences behind the wheel of an artic to the pride of passing his test, he has shown just how much can be achieved when someone is given the opportunity and encouragement to develop.

We’re delighted to have supported John throughout his training, and we wish him every success as he continues building his future with Laversdale Timber.

Inspired by John's Journey?

Whether you’re looking to gain your HGV licence or you’re an employer hoping to develop the skills of your existing team, SP Training is here to support you every step of the way.
Turning your goals into reality.

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