About SkillRide Driving Academy
Family-run, locally trusted, and dedicated to helping Western Sydney drivers succeed since 2016.
Our Story
SkillRide Driving Academy was founded in 2016 by a family passionate about road safety in Western Sydney. What started as a single instructor and a big ambition has grown into one of Bankstown's most trusted driving schools, with thousands of students guided from their first lesson to a successful licence test.
As a family-run business, we treat every student like one of our own. We understand that learning to drive is a major life milestone, and we take that responsibility seriously. Our approach is built on patience, encouragement, and genuine care for each learner's progress.
Our Mission & Values
Our mission is simple: to develop safe, confident, and responsible drivers who are prepared for a lifetime on the road.
Safety First
Every lesson is structured around building habits that keep you, your passengers, and other road users safe. We go beyond test requirements to instil genuine defensive driving skills.
Patience & Encouragement
Everyone learns at their own pace. Our instructors create a calm, supportive environment where questions are welcomed and mistakes become learning opportunities.
Tailored Approach
No two learners are the same. We assess your current skill level from the very first session and adapt our teaching plan to match your strengths, weaknesses, and goals.
Why Choose SkillRide
Accredited Instructors
All of our instructors hold current RMS accreditation and maintain up-to-date Working With Children checks. You are in qualified, professional hands every lesson.
Modern, Dual-Control Vehicles
Learn in late-model, well-maintained cars fitted with dual controls for your safety. Our fleet includes both automatic and manual transmission vehicles.
Flexible Scheduling
We offer lessons seven days a week, from early morning to early evening. Book times that fit around your school, work, or family commitments.
Local Expertise
We know Bankstown, Canterbury, Punchbowl, Lakemba, Greenacre, and the wider Western Sydney area inside out, including the routes used for driving tests at local Service NSW centres.
Meet the Team
Our instructors are the heart of SkillRide. Each brings a unique combination of experience, patience, and dedication to every lesson.
James Whitfield
Head Instructor & Founder
James founded SkillRide in 2016 after more than a decade in the transport and road safety sector. With over 4,000 students trained, he specialises in nervous beginners and test preparation. His calm, methodical teaching style puts even the most anxious learners at ease.
Priya Kaur
Senior Instructor
Priya joined the team in 2018 and quickly became a student favourite. She is known for her upbeat energy and ability to break complex manoeuvres into simple, easy-to-follow steps. Priya holds additional qualifications in defensive driving instruction.
David Tomescu
Instructor
David brings a wealth of real-world driving experience, including highway and long-distance driving instruction. He is passionate about helping international licence holders adapt to Australian road rules and conditions, and speaks fluent Romanian and conversational Arabic.
Ready to Start Your Driving Journey?
Get in touch with our friendly team to book your first lesson or ask any questions you may have.
Contact Us