IAM Herts - Looking to do Skills For Life (I think)

[Pork]

Morning chaps,

I've just had a read through quite a few of the posts on here, including Mag1calTrev0r's diary (very interesting, thanks for posting) and think I might benefit from doing the IAM Skills For Life.

Like most, I consider myself to be a decent driver (probably average!) but am well aware that I could do a lot better. When I first passed my test a good few years back ('94), I went and had an introductory run with the local IAM which was, at the time, Northampton.

To say it was dry is an understatement. In fact, I only had the one session and was put off IAM totally. Having read a few threads on here, I suspect I might have just had a bit unlucky with the observer or perhaps he thought I was too boy racer-ish (in my Talbot Horizon, 1.1 LE!). As such, I want avoid making that mistake again - are there any friendly PHers around the North Herts/Beds area that I can get in touch with?

I'm more than happy signing up for the Skills For Life course - am I just as well to sign up for that and then worry about the instructor later, or should I try to find an IAM member on PH first?

Any help/guidance much appreciated.

Cheers

[anonymous-user]

try RoADA too

or another IAM observer

[Gordon Johns]

I observe for the Aylesbury Group, but I live in Beds on the Beds/Bucks/Herts border, and we have two observers in Herts and one in Middlesex! The way we work is that you would be allocated by the Group (me) to the most geographically suitable and available observer. We certainly aim to make it fun - I suspect you were unlucky last time - but we always say that if you're not getting on with your observer we'll reallocate you. First thing to do is buy Skills for Life! Good luck.

[johnao]

"Pork" ... don't delay, sign up with Gordon immediately. You will meet a kindred spirit; not that he's the ultimate "boy-racer" , but he is an enthusiast. You may even get a demo drive in his brilliant TVR - not too sure what colour it is at present.

Seriously though, you'll be in excellent company with Gordon and his group, and I know you'll enjoy the course. As Gordon says, if you don't get on with your observer he'll ensure that the problem is sorted. It's early days yet but, also speak to Gordon about post-IAM courses and what to do next, he'll give you some valuable guidance and should you wish to pursue your advanced driving career further will be able to introduce you to some of the best instructors . Good luck.

[MagicalTrevor]

Thanks

I would say do it and don't worry too much about the observer. If you find yourselves to be 'incompatible' then I'm sure you could change.

I've actually chosen not to renew but I think that the course was hugely invaluable and I'm really glad I did it.

[Pork]

Thanks for the replies fellas. Will mull it over at the weekend and make a decision then.

Trevor, interesting that you've chosen not to re-new.

[MagicalTrevor]

Pork said:

Thanks for the replies fellas. Will mull it over at the weekend and make a decision then.

Trevor, interesting that you've chosen not to re-new.

Nothing sinister , I'll PM you

[SVS]

Hi there,

It's easy to change your Observer if you wish. I did and found it surprisingly easy. (Just contact the Chief Observer or Membership Secretary and one of them should organise it for you.)

As with all coaching, the right personal chemistry is vital. One person's ideal Observer isn't necessarily right for another.

I hope you sign up and enjoy the drives!

[Glosphil]

I am membership Secretary and Associate Coordinator for an IAM Group. On the few occassions when an Associate has asked for a change of Observer I have immediately arranged for another observer to be assigned.