Bristol, Bath and the West
News & Initiatives Archive
First drivers enhance their driving skills thanks to new training
First drivers are enhancing their skills thanks to a new training scheme.
First is delighted to announce that a new training package launched recently by the company across First Bristol and Somerset & Avon is a huge success. The ‘Smiths driving system aims to provide the drivers with simple techniques that will enable them to be as prepared as they can be in all road conditions and scenarios.
Tony Phelps, a bus driver in Bristol said ‘ The course is very informative and we can all learn something from this type of course. I have been driving for 40 years and I definitely learnt some new skills on the course. The training is straightforward and easy to understand and you find yourself adapting the procedures to your driving automatically. For instance, you are given advice on how to measure distances easily by using landmarks or objects.
The training - officially known as the ‘Smiths Driving System focuses on certain key principles dealing with awareness, positioning and visibility. It is also designed to help reduce collisions and improve road safety. There are also environmental benefits, as better driving techniques will help to reduce fuel consumption and emissions.
Alan Flinders, Training Manger for First Bristol and First Somerset & Avon said: ‘The feedback I have had from drivers so far has been really positive. Not only does a course such as this help them to improve technique and confidence behind the wheel but it also demonstrates Firsts commitment to providing some of the best training on offer anywhere.
Notes to editors:
The ‘Smiths Driving System was devised and developed in America in the 1950s and is based on techniques around defensive driving.
It forms part of Firsts commitment to IPP " Firsts Injury Prevention Programme designed to help prevent injuries to our customers, staff and other road users.
The training is still ongoing and will be provided for all drivers. They are also presented with a certificate on completing the course.
