Despite the thread title you can always choose another method of deciding your training provider. That is basically heads or tails. Of course there is the well put together website or the promise of 50k - 80k jobs available.
Assessment method
You will need a LGV provisional licence to actually drive the truck although some assess you on a 3.5t truck or even a car. Using this method you will get to meet the key players of the company, hopefully the instructor and the vehicle you will be be putting your faith and more importantly hard earned cash into.
Expect a drive of approx 1-2 hours to give you a fair chance to demonstrate your abilities.
Upside = Usually free chance to have a go. If you are a bit above average you may save money on the standard course fee.
Downside = Not much really. Perhaps the trainer is under orders to sell more than you need but in my experience not usually. Assessments are a selling tool not a training tool.
Recommendation method
Here you go on the word of a trusted friend, family member, or mate down the pub.
Sometimes he has has a good experience with the trainer and that is good news. Sometimes he has just heard good things about the trainer perhaps second hand.
Upside = If you trust the guy you feel happy with the recommendation. Deciding where to buy is mostly about trust so this feels good.
Downside = What is good for 1 person may not be right for you.Your friend may have passed but dozens did not with the same trainer.
So the final decision is down to you. 2 to 1 training or 1 to 1 training. Broker or direct ? Weekdays or weekends. How do you choose ?
How did you choose your football team ? Like LGV training you only get 1 chance to get it right.
Regards
Fulham John
Flair Training