Should I do IAM?
Discussion
I've been lucky enough to have had 2 weeks of advanced driver training for the police. However, I'm still looking to improve and I am considering doing the IAM course.
My concerns are that they won't teach me a lot that I haven't already been taught, and also their image really puts me off. The second one is probably unfounded as It's only word of mouth that has made me form that opinion. I'm worried that they may "judge" me instantly as a 26 year old with a bright purple car and then they'll just spend 6 weeks telling me to drive slower. It looks like Oxford is my nearest IAM so does anyone have any experience?
Secondly although I know I can put together a tidy advanced drive, it's consistency that I find hard to achieve. When "pressing on" I find that the techniques gel nicely and my driving is of a high standard, although to agree you'd have to accept that going faster than the speed limit (where safe!) doesn't necessarily make your driving of a lower standard. When I'm going to the shops, or on a long drive, I get lazy and drive with one hand on the wheel, stereo up and most of the advanced techniques go out of the window. I also find it very difficult maintaining the levels of concentration for an advanced drive lasting longer than 30 minutes.
I think one of the biggest things that needs to change is my perception of the hazard of speed. I spent 2 weeks driving well above the posted limit and found that it was safe to do so. I'm now having difficulty adjusting back down to what most people would consider acceptable speed when on the open road. I have a dilemma, because I know that what I am doing is safe (I don't exceed the limit unless the conditions are safe) but I also know that that won't help when I end up in court. I'm fortunate to have a clean licence, I'd like to keep it that way!
So can the AIM help me re-assess my attitude? I drive to the system of car control, anticipate well and make and execute driving plans. Can they help me extend my advanced driving beyond this, or would I be better off saving the megabucks for Cadence or somthing similar? I can't wait the minimum 3 years before work sends me to the 4 weeks Advanced driving course!
My concerns are that they won't teach me a lot that I haven't already been taught, and also their image really puts me off. The second one is probably unfounded as It's only word of mouth that has made me form that opinion. I'm worried that they may "judge" me instantly as a 26 year old with a bright purple car and then they'll just spend 6 weeks telling me to drive slower. It looks like Oxford is my nearest IAM so does anyone have any experience?
Secondly although I know I can put together a tidy advanced drive, it's consistency that I find hard to achieve. When "pressing on" I find that the techniques gel nicely and my driving is of a high standard, although to agree you'd have to accept that going faster than the speed limit (where safe!) doesn't necessarily make your driving of a lower standard. When I'm going to the shops, or on a long drive, I get lazy and drive with one hand on the wheel, stereo up and most of the advanced techniques go out of the window. I also find it very difficult maintaining the levels of concentration for an advanced drive lasting longer than 30 minutes.
I think one of the biggest things that needs to change is my perception of the hazard of speed. I spent 2 weeks driving well above the posted limit and found that it was safe to do so. I'm now having difficulty adjusting back down to what most people would consider acceptable speed when on the open road. I have a dilemma, because I know that what I am doing is safe (I don't exceed the limit unless the conditions are safe) but I also know that that won't help when I end up in court. I'm fortunate to have a clean licence, I'd like to keep it that way!
So can the AIM help me re-assess my attitude? I drive to the system of car control, anticipate well and make and execute driving plans. Can they help me extend my advanced driving beyond this, or would I be better off saving the megabucks for Cadence or somthing similar? I can't wait the minimum 3 years before work sends me to the 4 weeks Advanced driving course!
I'm not especially well qualified to know but I suspect that two weeks training with the police will have taught you more than you would be taught be learning to do the IAM test. Do you mind me asking how you were able to do training with the police? I take it you are not an officer?
What did the people who were teaching you in the police think of your driving standard? Did they think you would benefit from doing the IAM test?
As to whether the IAM can help you re-assess you attitude to speed, I don't know. I suspect it depends heavily, maybe entirely, upon what your observer is like. I'm afraid I can't offer any tips on maintaining your concentration below the speed limit; it's not a problem I've experienced. Whatever, you will need to be able to drive to the IAM standard at speeds not in excess of the limit if you do the test.
What did the people who were teaching you in the police think of your driving standard? Did they think you would benefit from doing the IAM test?
As to whether the IAM can help you re-assess you attitude to speed, I don't know. I suspect it depends heavily, maybe entirely, upon what your observer is like. I'm afraid I can't offer any tips on maintaining your concentration below the speed limit; it's not a problem I've experienced. Whatever, you will need to be able to drive to the IAM standard at speeds not in excess of the limit if you do the test.
Yes do IAM. Its a feather in your cap and completely consistent with what you will be taught at work.
You will, however, need to demonstrate that you have the finesse to drive to the speed limits without accidentally going over them. If you cannot do this you cannot "pass". Since condoning breaking the law would see the IAM shut down by the DSA in a hot minute you will need to follow all traffic regulations, including speed limits, at all times on IAM drives and during your test. If you cannot do this you cannot "pass".
Most people, however, can do this. And can then get on and practice building the system into everything they do. There are a host of seperate benefits that you can access - and you don't need to go fast to get them.
You may also take comfort in that you know from your training thus far that everything to do with "Advanced Driving" works at all "appropriate" speeds - even IF you are limited in your IAM drives to the speed limit. Driving within a limit is a skill in and of itself so look at it that way.
We've had numbers of coppers through our group and they uniformly found it valuable.
You will, however, need to demonstrate that you have the finesse to drive to the speed limits without accidentally going over them. If you cannot do this you cannot "pass". Since condoning breaking the law would see the IAM shut down by the DSA in a hot minute you will need to follow all traffic regulations, including speed limits, at all times on IAM drives and during your test. If you cannot do this you cannot "pass".
Most people, however, can do this. And can then get on and practice building the system into everything they do. There are a host of seperate benefits that you can access - and you don't need to go fast to get them.
You may also take comfort in that you know from your training thus far that everything to do with "Advanced Driving" works at all "appropriate" speeds - even IF you are limited in your IAM drives to the speed limit. Driving within a limit is a skill in and of itself so look at it that way.
We've had numbers of coppers through our group and they uniformly found it valuable.
WeirdNeville said:
I've been lucky enough to have had 2 weeks of advanced driver training for the police. However, I'm still looking to improve and I am considering doing the IAM course.
My concerns are that they won't teach me a lot that I haven't already been taught, and also their image really puts me off. The second one is probably unfounded as It's only word of mouth that has made me form that opinion. I'm worried that they may "judge" me instantly as a 26 year old with a bright purple car and then they'll just spend 6 weeks telling me to drive slower. It looks like Oxford is my nearest IAM so does anyone have any experience?
Secondly although I know I can put together a tidy advanced drive, it's consistency that I find hard to achieve. When "pressing on" I find that the techniques gel nicely and my driving is of a high standard, although to agree you'd have to accept that going faster than the speed limit (where safe!) doesn't necessarily make your driving of a lower standard. When I'm going to the shops, or on a long drive, I get lazy and drive with one hand on the wheel, stereo up and most of the advanced techniques go out of the window. I also find it very difficult maintaining the levels of concentration for an advanced drive lasting longer than 30 minutes.
I think one of the biggest things that needs to change is my perception of the hazard of speed. I spent 2 weeks driving well above the posted limit and found that it was safe to do so. I'm now having difficulty adjusting back down to what most people would consider acceptable speed when on the open road. I have a dilemma, because I know that what I am doing is safe (I don't exceed the limit unless the conditions are safe) but I also know that that won't help when I end up in court. I'm fortunate to have a clean licence, I'd like to keep it that way!
So can the AIM help me re-assess my attitude? I drive to the system of car control, anticipate well and make and execute driving plans. Can they help me extend my advanced driving beyond this, or would I be better off saving the megabucks for Cadence or somthing similar? I can't wait the minimum 3 years before work sends me to the 4 weeks Advanced driving course!
My concerns are that they won't teach me a lot that I haven't already been taught, and also their image really puts me off. The second one is probably unfounded as It's only word of mouth that has made me form that opinion. I'm worried that they may "judge" me instantly as a 26 year old with a bright purple car and then they'll just spend 6 weeks telling me to drive slower. It looks like Oxford is my nearest IAM so does anyone have any experience?
Secondly although I know I can put together a tidy advanced drive, it's consistency that I find hard to achieve. When "pressing on" I find that the techniques gel nicely and my driving is of a high standard, although to agree you'd have to accept that going faster than the speed limit (where safe!) doesn't necessarily make your driving of a lower standard. When I'm going to the shops, or on a long drive, I get lazy and drive with one hand on the wheel, stereo up and most of the advanced techniques go out of the window. I also find it very difficult maintaining the levels of concentration for an advanced drive lasting longer than 30 minutes.
I think one of the biggest things that needs to change is my perception of the hazard of speed. I spent 2 weeks driving well above the posted limit and found that it was safe to do so. I'm now having difficulty adjusting back down to what most people would consider acceptable speed when on the open road. I have a dilemma, because I know that what I am doing is safe (I don't exceed the limit unless the conditions are safe) but I also know that that won't help when I end up in court. I'm fortunate to have a clean licence, I'd like to keep it that way!
So can the AIM help me re-assess my attitude? I drive to the system of car control, anticipate well and make and execute driving plans. Can they help me extend my advanced driving beyond this, or would I be better off saving the megabucks for Cadence or somthing similar? I can't wait the minimum 3 years before work sends me to the 4 weeks Advanced driving course!
You're eligible for membership of the IAM without doing the test as a Police response driver.
Driving is a discipline & on your course you would have had to show not only could you make progress where allowed more freedom, but that you could observe the limits as well. If you couldn't do that then you wouldn't have passed.
Edited by vonhosen on Tuesday 24th April 17:13
Nev, not wanting to take anything away from the IAM, but the Police courses are more intensive and harder to pass than the civilian IAM test. That's why, as Von says, you can apply to them for membership without having to pass their civilian test.
There's nothing to stop you going out with one of their groups though - with your level of training, they will welcome you and your input. I've been involved with IAM groups in the past, and I've always been welcomed with open arms.
There's nothing to stop you going out with one of their groups though - with your level of training, they will welcome you and your input. I've been involved with IAM groups in the past, and I've always been welcomed with open arms.
Don said:
Interesting comments VH/RU.
Well, Nev. Get involved with your local Group then! If you are properly qualified they could use an examiner I expect and you would be paid for that I understand....
Well, Nev. Get involved with your local Group then! If you are properly qualified they could use an examiner I expect and you would be paid for that I understand....
IIRC Response means they can join without test, Advanced as examiner.
(Not a member myself, so not 100% on the 2nd bit, but that is my understanding)
Edited by vonhosen on Tuesday 24th April 21:12
Some interesting replies and good info, as always on PH (outside of Speed, Plod and the Law obviously)
Not at all. I am an occifer - they don't let you do a 2 week course without you giving them 3-5 years of your life unfortunately.
I dont go over them accidentally - It's a conscious decision! Thats what worries me really. However I can see you point that operating within all traffic laws is a skill in itself and one that at the moment I would say I lack from time to time.
Von/RUL - Thanks for yuor input. From what you say it sounds like IAM may be a bit redundant after my Response Course. However, it is only £80 and this could be a bargain if they can re-inforce some areas of trianing that I've already had. I never thought of the fact that I could actually add to the IAM through my experience and training. I find that a bit presumptuous really. I don't think that the pupil has become the master just yet!
However I suppose I could get in touch. It's no good me sitting here bitching about the IAM's image (not that I'm in a position to) without actually sampling it for myself. I could become part of the solution being relatively young, and with a car that I guess some younger drivers might aspire to (So long as they don't look too closely and find the rust!).
I'll get in touch with the Oxford IAM and see where it leads.
SamHH said:
Do you mind me asking how you were able to do training with the police? I take it you are not an officer?
Not at all. I am an occifer - they don't let you do a 2 week course without you giving them 3-5 years of your life unfortunately.
Don said:
You will, however, need to demonstrate that you have the finesse to drive to the speed limits without accidentally going over them.
I dont go over them accidentally - It's a conscious decision! Thats what worries me really. However I can see you point that operating within all traffic laws is a skill in itself and one that at the moment I would say I lack from time to time.
Von/RUL - Thanks for yuor input. From what you say it sounds like IAM may be a bit redundant after my Response Course. However, it is only £80 and this could be a bargain if they can re-inforce some areas of trianing that I've already had. I never thought of the fact that I could actually add to the IAM through my experience and training. I find that a bit presumptuous really. I don't think that the pupil has become the master just yet!
However I suppose I could get in touch. It's no good me sitting here bitching about the IAM's image (not that I'm in a position to) without actually sampling it for myself. I could become part of the solution being relatively young, and with a car that I guess some younger drivers might aspire to (So long as they don't look too closely and find the rust!).
I'll get in touch with the Oxford IAM and see where it leads.
Hi Neville. I liked the frankness of your post. I suspect that only you can help yourself get your driving up to the next gear - by practising concentration (probably with a little commentary when you notice yourself backsliding?) and self-discipline.
I fully agree that the level of your skills will be not only above IAM pass but also above those of many IAM Observers - and I think it is a great idea to get in touch and offer to train as an Observer to help others. That way:
1. You will get input from the group's observer trainer, who may well be the best in the group.
2. You will find it helps your own discipline and driving development.
3. Experience of training (even if the IAM calls it Observing) will be stimulating, and will help you acquire a useful life skill which may help with your future career.
As to whether you should save your pennies for Cadence, Hugh Noblett of Cadence spent many years teaching at Police Advanced level, and has since continued to develop his driving and coaching with particular reference to the civilian world. If you were not an occifer, it would be worth saving your pennies for him. However, in your position your best bet is probably to wait for us generous tax-payers to pay for you to attend an advanced course in due course. Meanwhile, see if you can pass on some of the skills you have already been taught.
Good luck, Mark (never sadly having benefited from a police course, but IAM Obs, Rospa and HPC member)
I fully agree that the level of your skills will be not only above IAM pass but also above those of many IAM Observers - and I think it is a great idea to get in touch and offer to train as an Observer to help others. That way:
1. You will get input from the group's observer trainer, who may well be the best in the group.
2. You will find it helps your own discipline and driving development.
3. Experience of training (even if the IAM calls it Observing) will be stimulating, and will help you acquire a useful life skill which may help with your future career.
As to whether you should save your pennies for Cadence, Hugh Noblett of Cadence spent many years teaching at Police Advanced level, and has since continued to develop his driving and coaching with particular reference to the civilian world. If you were not an occifer, it would be worth saving your pennies for him. However, in your position your best bet is probably to wait for us generous tax-payers to pay for you to attend an advanced course in due course. Meanwhile, see if you can pass on some of the skills you have already been taught.
Good luck, Mark (never sadly having benefited from a police course, but IAM Obs, Rospa and HPC member)
Not really qualified to comment on most of the post, but with regard to the struggling to concentrate for more than 30 minutes I'd say you aren't alone on that one. I used to do a fair bit of sailing on large boats (60 foot plus) and they generally tried to rotate the helmsman and lookouts every 30 minutes. This is because even with the best will in the world, most people can't concentrate intensely for much longer than that anyway.
I would imagine that IAM may help in reinforcing those good habits you've learnt on the course. Again, not having much knowledge, it strikes me that if you keep on doing the advanced driving stuff, it'll become automatic and you won't be able to stop doing it. Which strikes me as a good thing.
I would imagine that IAM may help in reinforcing those good habits you've learnt on the course. Again, not having much knowledge, it strikes me that if you keep on doing the advanced driving stuff, it'll become automatic and you won't be able to stop doing it. Which strikes me as a good thing.
WhoseGeneration said:
Erm, I'm lost here.
A Police Officer, with some Police Driver training, revealing that when driving as a civilian he(she) cannot apply the basic tenets of that taught practice.
We are truly lost then.
A Police Officer, with some Police Driver training, revealing that when driving as a civilian he(she) cannot apply the basic tenets of that taught practice.
We are truly lost then.
You appear not.
To have understood my inital post. Or at least not read it properly.
I have been frank and honest.
About my perceived failings.
And asked for peoples opinions on how to best improve.
We are none of us perfect, but those who seek to improve deserve credit for so doing.
I speed occasionally.
I am a safe driver.
The two.
Are not mutually exclusive.
I agree that the highest standards should be expected of my in my profession.
But I also ask that civilians recognise that the police are only humans in a uniform.
WeirdNeville said:
WhoseGeneration said:
Erm, I'm lost here.
A Police Officer, with some Police Driver training, revealing that when driving as a civilian he(she) cannot apply the basic tenets of that taught practice.
We are truly lost then.
A Police Officer, with some Police Driver training, revealing that when driving as a civilian he(she) cannot apply the basic tenets of that taught practice.
We are truly lost then.
You appear not.
To have understood my inital post. Or at least not read it properly.
I have been frank and honest.
About my perceived failings.
And asked for peoples opinions on how to best improve.
We are none of us perfect, but those who seek to improve deserve credit for so doing.
I speed occasionally.
I am a safe driver.
The two.
Are not mutually exclusive.
I agree that the highest standards should be expected of my in my profession.
But I also ask that civilians recognise that the police are only humans in a uniform.
Sorry,I thought I had understood your initial post.
You have had the benefit of driver training related to your occupation.
The basis of that training is concentration, irrespective of speed.
Indeed, I started a Topic to discuss the issue of concentration.
We all speed, some more than others.
Your "civilian" speeding I would, I suspect, have no issue with.
One handed, stereo up and losing concentration I do.
I am much older than you yet have no problem concentrating on a three hours drive such that near the end I can observe, in my offside mirror, Numpty in a chaved up Cavalier overtaking the line of traffic I'm in and about to collide with the Skoda Felicia I'm behind and which is indicating to turn right.
So I move into the nearside of the crossroads thus affording Numpty enough room to jinx through the gap.
It's all just observation, anticipation and concentration at all times and speeds.
Mindset.
WeirdNeville said:
Your first post
And subsequent reply
Have little relevance
To the question I posed.
If you wish to criticise my driving
I suggest that you observe it first.
If you wish to criticise the Police
I suggest that you do so elsewhere.
And subsequent reply
Have little relevance
To the question I posed.
If you wish to criticise my driving
I suggest that you observe it first.
If you wish to criticise the Police
I suggest that you do so elsewhere.
Perhaps we are getting at cross purposes here.
You are, as others have said, at an higher standard than the IAM standard.
The IAM course and test would be conducted strictly within all speed limits.
What could it teach you?
Again, as others have said, you could probably help your local Group.
WeirdNeville said:
Your first post
And subsequent reply
Have little relevance
To the question I posed.
If you wish to criticise my driving
I suggest that you observe it first.
If you wish to criticise the Police
I suggest that you do so elsewhere.
And subsequent reply
Have little relevance
To the question I posed.
If you wish to criticise my driving
I suggest that you observe it first.
If you wish to criticise the Police
I suggest that you do so elsewhere.
Can I criticise it?
Perhaps in Wales in August?
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