Road Masters Driving School

Driving Instructor

1. Structured driving lessons

   5th September 2016 12:33 pmComments Off on Structured driving lessons

   Throughout a course of structured driving lessons, training is structured to meet the needs of individual learners, everyone is different and learns at their own pace.  Extra driving time with family or friends can speed up this learning by gaining confidence and knowledge of the road. Where one pupil may excel at certain driving tasks and perhaps struggle with others, other learners will struggle in completely different areas, and excel at different things.

   As lessons continue and move forward, the structure of each one will be tailored around each learner’s changing level of ability, knowledge and skill.

   What to expect at your driving lesson

   • Recap of previous driving lesson
   • Brief plan of action for forthcoming driving lesson
   • Driving to a relevant location for lesson, if required
   • Discussion of aims and objectives for the lesson
   • Driving practice on current skill, e.g. roundabouts, parking or pedestrian crossings etc
   • Drive home incorporating a route that allows extra practice of skill
   • Lesson recap & planning and scheduling next lesson

   Remember that learning and improvement involves effort from both the instructor and from yourself!

   What will be included in my structured driving lessons?

   • Controls
   • Moving off and stopping
   • Mirror use
   • Use of signals
   • Turning left
   • Turning right
   • Emerging at T- Junctions
   • Crossroads
   • Roundabouts
   • Traffic lights and pedestrian crossings
   • Judgement – meet/cross/overtake other traffic
   • Progress/hesitancy/adequate clearance
   • Driving at higher speeds
   • Awareness/planning/anticipation
   • Driving manoeuvres
   • Emergency stop
   • Show Me/Tell Me
   • Mock driving tests
   • Driving test preparation

   Make an enquiry with Road Masters for your driving lessons >

2. A Sat Nav Examiner?!

   1st October 2015 10:17 amComments Off on A Sat Nav Examiner?!

   How many of you use a Sat Nav or a phone app to get to your destination?  It might be a very useful gadget, helping you arrive at your important engagement but isn’t it distracting?!  Learning to use a Sat Nav safely is becoming a really important skill in driving.  Then, including it in the driving exam seems a good idea?

   How would a Sat Nav Examiner work?

   For around 20 minutes of the driving test you will be asked to follow directions given to you from a Sat Nav.  This is being done to make the test more realistic.  The Sat Nav will be provided and the examiner will always be ready to step in and direct should the Sat Nav have any problems.

   Why would the DVSA introduce the Sat Nav?

   Sat Navs are now being commonly used so the DVSA have said that it would better replicate a normal driving situation.  The learner would be tested on their ability to familiarise themselves with the potential distractions of using a Sat Nav.  It would also give the learner more responsibility to make their own decisions.

   Struggle to follow a Sat Nav

   The learner driver will not be tested on their ability to follow a Sat Nav but their standard of driving whilst doing so.  It will not matter if the learner driver deviates from the route recommended on the Sat Nav.

3. Considering The Use Of Car Tracking Technology

   1st May 2015 1:42 pmComments Off on Considering The Use Of Car Tracking Technology

   It is quite common for teenagers to seek means of limiting the amount of parental interference in their everyday lives. Many look forward to the sense of freedom which comes after passing the driving test. However, some of the leading insurers are promoting the use of black box car tracking devices as a means of monitoring the driving behaviour of newly qualified motorists. These devices keep a constant track of speed and send automatic alerts to the parents of teenagers who drive irresponsibly. However, they do offer some notable benefits, as outlined in this blog.

   The young drivers who opt for the installation of car tracking technology pay considerably less for insurance. Some of the leading insurers even offer incentives for good driving behaviour.

   The likelihood of involvement in serious crashes is significantly reduced as the young drivers are aware that they are being monitored. Some leading motoring groups have claimed that black boxes should be fitted as standard for the assurance of road safety.

   A number of young drivers have said that they couldn’t have afforded to take to the roads if it hadn’t been for the option of relatively inexpensive black box insurance. They have adapted their driving behaviour for fear of being disciplined by their parents. The insurers have also threatened substantial fines for those young drivers who fail to keep to the rules of the road. A leading insurance expert said that the technology “is not about spying, it is about safety, the single most important factor when looking at young drivers.”

   The safety-conscious Road Masters team fully appreciate the importance of improving road safety. It is for this reason that we offer fully comprehensive training and only encourage learners to take their tests when we have complete confidence in their ability behind the wheel. We also encourage our valued customers to consider the option of black box insurance.

4. Is It Time To Overhaul The Driving Test?

   26th March 2015 2:42 pmComments Off on Is It Time To Overhaul The Driving Test?

   

   16th, March, 1935, Mr, R,E,L,Beere of Kensington, London, proudly shows his wife, certificate number, 0001, the first ever driving certificate after he passed his driving test

   A lot has changed since the driving test was introduced in 1935. The car has become the primary method of transport and the completion of the driving test has been widely acknowledged as a right of passage. Road safety has become a major issue and the DVLA have incorporated elements of theory and hazard perception into the driving test. However, the Institute of Advanced Motorists are keen to overhaul the current system and introduce a variety of brand new training methods for learner drivers.

   Recommended Changes

   The IAM are eager to prepare new drivers for the variety of hazards which may be encountered after the completion of the driving test. They have said that driving instructors should provide night-time and wet weather training. Young drivers could also receive lessons on the safe navigation of poorly maintained roads.

   Road safety would be included as part of the national curriculum if the IAM proposals are given the green light. There would also be a restriction on the number of passengers that young drivers are allowed to travel with after passing the test. These positive steps would undoubtedly be welcomed by concerned parents and emergency service workers across the UK.

   Expert Opinion

   Newly qualified drivers already have the option of taking the Pass Plus course. However, the IAM have said that follow up-training should be mandatory. Motoring charity representative Neil Grieg said ‘The driving test needs to become a much more integrated part of a graduated licensing system that picks up on best practice from around the world.’

   Government spokesperson Jake Berry followed up by saying ‘I think many of our local responsible driving instructors will already be doing a lot of what the IAM is recommending and I would urge people to find a good local driving instructor who will give them the breadth of experience they need to be a good driver.’

   Road Masters Driving Lessons

   Road Masters driving lessons are the ideal choice for people living in Exeter and East Devon. Our instructors provide essential training and adapt effective training methods in accordance with driving test changes. We’ll equip you with the necessary skills for safe and enjoyable driving.

5. 2015 – A Year Of Change For Young Drivers

   30th December 2014 11:37 pmComments Off on 2015 – A Year Of Change For Young Drivers

   Young drivers throughout the United Kingdom are likely to be affected by a variety of changes in 2015. Those of you who’ve been taking driving lessons with Road Masters may well be prepared to take your theory and practical tests. You may be interested in the proposals and expected motoring advancements that are highlighted in this blog.

   Government Plans

   Members of the main political parties have outlined a variety of proposals in the aim of winning the vote of young drivers in the general election of 2015. The Labour party have called for the introduction of affordable travel-to-work-only insurance for young motorists. Such a scheme would involve the use of telematics technology to monitor driving behaviour.

   The Conservative politicians are working with major motoring groups to develop a range of safety initiatives. The Liberal Democrats have also outlined plans for a green paper highlighting key steps for the general protection of the driving community. It is thought that car insurance premiums could decrease as a result of improved road safety.

   Driving Tests

   There is expected to be a considerable overhaul of the practical driving test in 2015. Challenging manoeuvres such as the 3 point turn and corner reverse might well be scrapped. However, the takers may be expected to park in bays and pull over safely when navigating minor roads. The examiners may ask for a demonstration of appropriate sat nav use. There is also expected to be an increase in average test times.

   Driver Licensing

   The DVLA have announced that they are set to scrap the paper counterpart driving license in 2015. Newly qualified drivers will be granted with standard photo license, which must be renewed every 10 years. It will be possible to view information about vehicle licensing and grant access to selected third parties via the DVLA website.

   Road Masters Instruction

   You can be sure that the Road Masters team will respond appropriately to the various changes outlined in this blog. We will continue to provide comprehensive road training at the most affordable prices for young drivers in Exeter and Exmouth. Any feedback will be taken into consideration as part of our commitment to outstanding service!

6. 7 Essential Facts For Learner Drivers

   1st October 2014 10:55 pmComments Off on 7 Essential Facts For Learner Drivers

   Learner Drivers who have just started driving lessons in Exeter or Exmouth may be a little overwhelmed by the amount of information regarding the rules of the road. You might have trouble remembering the steps that should be taken during specific manoeuvres. You may also be daunted by the prospect of having to prepare for different elements of the theory test. However, the Road Masters team have produced this helpful list of facts for your consideration.

   1. Hazard Perception Is Essential

   You might believe that the safest drivers are those with impeccable vehicle-handling skills. However, hazard perception is the key skill with regards to safety behind the wheel. It is important to closely monitor the road and identify potentially dangerous situations in advance.

   2. Speed Kills

   It has been estimated that 300 lives would be saved if all of the UK’s drivers were to reduce their speed by 1mph. You can do your bit by maintaining appropriate speeds when navigating different types of roads.

   3. Local Roads Aren’t Necessarily Safe

   You may be surprised to hear that a relatively high proportion of accidents happen within five miles of driver’s homes. This may be due to increased relaxation and lack of concentration in familiar areas. Thankfully you can reduce the risks by maintaining focussed until you’ve successfully parked your vehicle.

   4. Stalling Doesn’t Always Result In Failure

   The driving examiners are aware that novice drivers typically experience high levels of anxiety in test conditions. They allow a certain amount of leeway with regards to minor errors. Stalling when pulling away or completing challenging manoeuvres won’t necessarily result in failure.

   5. The Driving Examiner Doesn’t Have Anything Against You

   The professional role of the driving examiner would be far less stressful if all of the candidates were fully prepared for the variety of driving challenges. They wouldn’t have to fill in forms detailing the reasons for test failure. However, the examiners have a responsibility to ensure the safety of all road users.

   6. You May Be Accompanied By A Friend Or Instructor In The Exam

   The vast majority of learner drivers pluck up the courage to take the driving test independently. However, a trusted friend or driving instructor may join you for moral support if so desired. Foreign test takers are entitled to enlist the help of professional translators.

   7. 20% Of Drivers Crash Within A Year Of Passing

   Novice driver’s typically feel a mixture of relief and excitement upon successful completion of the driving test. However, some are very quick to discard the essential rules and act irresponsibly behind the wheel. They stand a relatively high chance of involvement in serious accidents.

7. Is It Time To Introduce Graduated Driver Licensing?

   8th July 2014 1:28 pmComments Off on Is It Time To Introduce Graduated Driver Licensing?

   Government research has revealed that the number of road deaths has decreased considerably over the last few years. However, the youngest and most inexperienced drivers are still at a relatively high risk of serious accidents. Male motorists aged between 17 and 20 are 10 times as likely to sustain serious injuries or lose their lives as those aged from 40-59. Such statistics have prompted motoring groups such as BRAKE, the road safety charity and the RAC Foundation to demand the introduction of a graduated driver licensing system.

   Summary Of Graduated Driver Licensing

   The graduated licensing method is seen as an effective means of gradually improving the knowledge and awareness of novice drivers. It involves the legal enforcement of various rules regarding the supervision of learner drivers and the experience which must be acquired before taking the theoretical and practical driving tests. Advocates of the new system also support the imposition of curfews and restriction in the number of passengers that young drivers are allowed to travel with.

   Reasons To Introduce The New System

   Researchers from the University of Cardiff have claimed that the introduction of the graduated driver licensing method would lead to a considerable drop in the number of serious road injuries and deaths. This claim has been supported by the successful introduction of graduated licensing in countries such as Australia, New Zealand and America. RAC surveys have also revealed that the majority of British motorists would back the enforcement of young driver restrictions.

   Driver Safety Advice

   Young drivers are bound to see the introduction of graduated driver licensing as a mixed blessing. However, it is surely worth waiting a little longer for complete freedom of the road in return for a significant improvement in motoring safety. In the meantime it would be worth registering for driving lessons in Exeter with the Road Masters Driving School. You can be assured that our professional instructors will provide the necessary guidance to ensure optimum safety behind the wheel!

8. Factors To Consider When Choosing A Driving Instructor

   10th February 2014 1:07 pmComments Off on Factors To Consider When Choosing A Driving Instructor

   So, you’ve decided that it’s time to learn how to drive. You’re excited about the prospect of increased freedom and independence. However, you realise that it’s necessary to gain driving experience under the guidance of a professional instructor. You may well experience difficulty when it comes to the selection of a suitable expert. However, the guidelines outlined in this article will definitely be of help.

   Driving Qualifications
   

   You may be aware that it is deemed legally acceptable for novice drivers to be instructed by driving license holders who are over the age of 21. This may mean that you are able to gain experience under the guidance of a friend or family member. However, it would be far more sensible to look for a driving instructor who has been given DVSA (Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency) approval. A fully qualified instructor will be able to show you the green badge which is granted after successful completion of the stringent DVSA tests. Ryan Masters, owner of the Road Masters Driving School, gained the necessary accreditation in the year 2000.

   Personal Qualities

   The best driving instructors have some key characteristics in common. They are able to exercise great levels of patience. They can also empathise and understand the specific requirements of learner drivers. Ryan Masters fits the bill absolutely perfectly. He considers it a duty to instill confidence and ensure that every student develops the skills necessary to pass and remain safe on the roads.

   The Vehicle

   

   You’ll probably realise that there is considerable variability in the performance of different vehicles. However, experienced driving instructors typically favour small cars with relatively high safety ratings. These vehicles offer smooth handling and responsiveness. It is also worth noting that the car insurance companies will only offer cover for vehicles with dual control. You can be assured that the vehicles used by the Road Masters Driving School meet the necessary standards.

   Lesson Prices

   Factors such as location and instructor experience may have some bearing upon the cost of driving lessons. However, learner drivers can generally expect to pay between £24 and £28 per hour for expert tuition. Those of you choose the Road Masters Driving School will be granted the first hour of tuition for free. This will give you the opportunity to discuss any matters of concern and learn about the programme of training. You may even be tempted to save some money by booking a block of 10 lessons for the very reasonable price of £240. See our driving lesson prices.