Maria's IAM RoadSmart journey

After passing my driving test at the age of 18 and enjoying time behind the wheel I decided to pursue further driving opportunities and joined IAM RoadSmart as an Associate Member. After several observed drives I successfully passed the Advanced Test at the age of 19. 

Moving forward a number of years and having to do a lot of driving for my job as a trainer for Thames Valley Police, I wanted to brush up on my skills and became intent on taking the test again.  My mentor at that time was Martin Kemp who was enthusiastic and encouraging. In December 2021 I passed the test and gained a F1RST.

This gave me greater understanding and knowledge around Roadcraft and the IPSGA principles and I was able to incorporate all that I had learnt into my daily drives.I took this a step further when a few months later I booked myself onto a Skills Day at Thruxton Race Circuit. I was asked what I wanted from the drive and my answer was to find out how far I could push myself (and the car, being a basic Ford Fiesta) and to know how safely I could brake from higher speeds. I was surprised at how stable my car was and what that felt like within an environment I could safely undertake the manoeuvres in.

What was next? Masters! In April this year I contacted IAM RoadSmart, paid my fee and met with my mentor, Peter Gunn, for my first drive in May. Because of working full time, I wasn’t sure just how often the drives would take place, but Peter was brilliant.  The whole process was seamless.

I can’t thank Peter enough and I do understand that all the volunteers do a fantastic job which I truly appreciate.  From the start we got on well and built a rapport and personally I don’t mind being told when I could do things better which is what it’s all about. Over the weeks I looked forward to the drives, bouncing ideas off each other and asking for points to be clarified which I had been thinking about. The Masters Logbook states “your mentor will be a kindred spirit”. That was definitely the case. I felt listened to, encouraged, and calmly reassured and, over the weeks, felt well prepared for the test after his experience and informed guidance. On the day of the test I was obviously nervous but after a bit of ‘self commentary’ (just get on with it and drive as you have been doing) I successfully passed with a Distinction which I felt quite overwhelmed by.

The process has certainly enhanced my driving and enjoyment of driving - hazard awareness, preparation and all the other skills to make me a more competent and skilled driver.

Thank you again Peter and all the volunteers at IAM Roadsmart.