Receiving the National Instructor of the Year award is something I’m still taking in. To be recognised by Intelligent Instructor in this way means more to me than I can truly put into words. I want to start by saying a heartfelt thank you—not just for the award itself, but for such a fantastic and memorable evening.
I’d also like to extend my sincere thanks to the awards supporter, ADINJC, and those in association DASH Instructor Cover & Derin Driving School. Your support helps celebrate instructors across the industry, and it genuinely means a lot to be recognised as part of that.
Standing in that room, surrounded by so many talented and passionate instructors, was a moment I’ll never forget. It wasn’t just about winning—it was about feeling seen, accepted, and proud to be part of a profession that is moving forward in such a positive and inclusive way.
My journey to this point hasn’t been easy.
As a trans woman, I’ve faced rejection, prejudice, and obstacles simply for being myself. There have been times where doors were closed, where assumptions were made, and where it felt like I had to work twice as hard just to be given the same chance. But through it all, I’ve held onto one thing—my passion for helping people.
That passion is what led me to build Horizon Driving School into something more than just driving lessons.
I wanted to create a safe, welcoming space—especially for those in the LGBTQ+ community—where people can come as they are, without fear of judgement. Because learning to drive isn’t just about the mechanics of the car… it’s about confidence, trust, and feeling comfortable enough to be yourself behind the wheel.
I see the impact of that every day.
When a student feels safe, when they know they’re understood, when they can relax and just be themselves—that’s when real progress happens. Sometimes it’s not even about the driving, sometimes it’s simply about having someone beside you who understands your journey. And that can make a huge difference, both in lessons and in life.
That’s why this award means so much to me.
It’s not just recognition for what I do—it’s recognition for what I believe in. It shows that inclusion matters, that representation matters, and that creating safe spaces within our industry truly makes a difference.
And if anything, this has only strengthened my determination.
To keep supporting my students.
To keep building confidence and safe spaces.
And to keep spreading awareness across the driving instructor profession—one conversation, one talk, one lesson at a time.
Because everyone deserves the opportunity to learn, grow, and succeed as their true self.
Thank you again to Intelligent Instructor, to ADINJC, to DASH Instructor Cover & Derin Driving School for this incredible honour—and for an evening I’ll never forget.
Here’s to continuing the journey together.
Amanda Jayne
Horizon Driving School
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