Carbie Classes began as an idea that was previously recognised in this competition, which gave me early validation and the opportunity to invest in my first professional toolset — which I still use today.

Since then, I’ve continued to develop both academically and professionally. I’ve completed an undergraduate degree and begun postgraduate study, alongside gaining further experience in education, student engagement, and the motor trade. That time has allowed me to significantly strengthen both my technical and teaching skills, and I’m now in a much stronger position to deliver the idea at a high standard.

Carbie Classes itself addresses a clear confidence gap between drivers and mechanics, identified in IMI research, where a lack of understanding can lead to distrust, uncertainty, and unnecessary cost. This disproportionately affects women and new drivers, but impacts many people who simply haven’t been given accessible, practical entry points into car knowledge.

The business delivers small, hands-on workshops focused on essential vehicle skills such as changing a wheel, jump-starting a car, and checking fluids. The aim is not to turn people into mechanics, but to build real-world confidence and independence.

What makes Carbie Classes different is the combination of practical automotive experience and an understanding of how people actually learn. My background in education and psychology, particularly around student engagement and confidence-building, directly informs how the sessions are designed — practical, supportive, and unintimidating.

In short, Carbie Classes helps people know their car, and trust themselves when it matters most.