Another IAM/ROSPA/HPC question...

[xiphias]

Like a few of the other threads here, I'm a little unsure about where to go next. I'm currently on the IAM course, and after 6 sessions I have had a mock test and passed my second opinion. The 2nd opinion was marked all 1's, apart from speeding which gained me a 2 , however this may mean nothing (Is this a local or national marking level? It goes up to 5, 1 being best). From what I gather, I've passed through this quite quickly and whilst I can see my standards have definitly gone up, I havn't found it particularly taxing, apart from limit points

I have read roadcraft, and my observer knows this. I've also put it into practice where possible. However, I've never formally been taught the system or road positioning, and from this I can only assume I must be subconciously be putting it into practice, judging by the fact the observers think I am good enough. You may think I'm being skeptical here, but from the difficulty level I've felt, the examiner's marking is either off (I don't believe this so), or my driving is a lot better than I think it is (I don't do being positive about myself!). Hence why I feel rather confused.

So, after my test, where should I go? I have seriously contemplated becoming an observer, but at the lowly age of 21, I'm not sure whether I'd fit in or be "mature" enough to coach (I'll do more research into this). There is ROSPA, but I've heard differing opinions of this, some citing too similar to the IAM, some stating more advanced. Above IAM/ROSPA is the HPC course, which is definitly a future goal of mine. At this current moment time though, I don't know whether it's way above my league. Is there anything else I can do in the meantime instead, like the skidpan training at Silverstone? I intend to always progress the standard of my driving, but I don't want to waste time relearning the same stuff!

and breathe...

[xiphias]

Ah, all good stuff, thanks chaps. I'll attempt the ROSPA test, just to tick another box, but I'll mainly look at the HPC. Is there likely to be anything needed in preparation for the gatekeeping courses, or can I just jump on the Master Drivers course (or Don, whoevers closer!) from IAM?

Regarding John Lyon and feeling scared, I thought one of the objectives of advanced driving was that passengers felt more comfortable? Surely not in this case!