top of page

Search Results

271 results found with an empty search

  • What Type Of Learner Am I?

    What Type of Learner am I? We have put together some categories that fit the type of learner you might be which will help you and your instructor understand what resources and teaching techniques will be required to maximise your performance and progress when learning to drive. Auditory Learner If you are an Auditory learner then you will often learn better when you have the practical task or theory information explained and discussed with you. You would much rather listen to instructions rather than read up on written notes beforehand. You will probably benefit from resources such as this podcast. You will often want to speek out to reinforce your understanding and possible ideas. You like to explain the decisions you are making and tend to need to justify them. When you speak out, you are happy to question and criticise without much fear. You are the type of person who is fantastic at verbally explaining things. You may also like things repeated by the instructor to re-enforce the task or instructions. Kinesthetic Learner If you are a Kinesthetic learner then you tend to  learn through experiencing or doing the task for real. You like to get right in the thick of things by having a go at the task as soon as possible and are happy to be learning from mistakes in order to understand the concepts and processes. You might struggle to sit still and listen to an instruction and prefer a more hands on demonstration. You tend to be a more hands on practical person. You will develop a physical sense of what you are learning and develop your own concepts to adapt and modify to suit similar situations. Reading and Writing Learner If you are a Reading and Writing Learner then you prefer to learn through written words. While there is some overlap with visual learning,  you are drawn to the written article through writing it down or reading what others have written, such as our blog. You will read up on the task before hand, research concepts and reflect back on what you have experienced and learnt through writing in diaries. You are keen to analyse criticism and find valid solutions to problems. Visual learners If you are a visual learner then you are someone with a preference for seeing demonstrations and observing what others do. Pictures, diagrams and written directions help you picture the task at hand. If you are a visual learner then you tend to understand information better when it’s presented in a visual way. You quite like to doodle, make lists and take notes to help you learn. Why not read our Aims and Objectives to see how we can help you and adapt a teaching style to suit your needs. If you are interested in learning to drive then please call Simon at 4front Driving School on 07905657229 Or visit our website on http://www.4frontdrivingschool.co.uk You can email 4frontdrivingschool@gmail.com Or visit our Facebook Page at http://www.facebook.com/4frontdrivingschool #4frontDrivingSchool #kinestheticlearner #whattypeoflearneramI #Auditorylearner #visuallearner #readingandwritinglearner

  • Train To Become A Driving Instructor with 4front Driving School

    Train to become a Driving Instructor with 4front Driving School Looking for a career change? Been made redundant? Looking for work? We can help…​ Join our franchise Already and ADI – No ties franchise scheme What we can offer you? We can offer you training to become an approved Driving Instructor. Why is this a good choice of a career? Being an approved driving instructor (ADI) can be a very rewarding career: you’ll help people to learn an important skill for life and help teach others to be safe and confident drivers. The job will involve working with all sorts of people so you’ll need good people skills as well as: patience and understanding as an instructor, a thorough knowledge of the theory and practical driving test, an ability to teach, awareness of changes in the regulations for driving tests, as well as driving instruction and the highway code, business sense, And the great thing is you can be your own boss. At 4front Driving School we can offer you all your training needs, all we ask is that you are committed and withhold our company’s fantastic reputation for delivering a fantastic and caring service towards our students. ​A bit about me – I am Simon, an ADI who trained a number of years ago to become a driving instructor as I believed I had the qualities, patients and credentials needed to become a successful driving instructor. I was a teacher for 12 years, originally in secondary education, I later moved into primary but the workload and stress was all to much. That might sound familiar. I wanted to be my own boss, no more targets, no-one looking over me, calling me into their office – `Sound Familiar?` I worked for a local driving school to begin with, learnt the ropes and how to be successful in this field of work. After a year or so I felt confident I could grow my own business and not rely on others help anymore. So at 4front Driving School we can offer you a package to suit your needs – we have competitive rates and no ties. If you fancy meeting up to discuss your situation, options or way we can help you then please don’t hesitate to contact me for a chat. ​Things you will need to consider You’ll need to check that you’re eligible to apply to become a driving instructor. Take a quick test on GOV.UK to find out whether you can apply. This test will also tell you what to do next to become an ADI. How to apply First you’ll need to apply to the Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency (DVSA) to become an ADI. To do this you’ll need to give details about your current driving licence including any driving offences. You’ll also need a criminal records disclosure number. You can apply to become an ADI on GOV.UK. Criminal record check Before you can apply to become an ADI, you’ll need to have a criminal record check. Apply for your check at GOV.UK ​Next steps When you’ve been accepted to start the qualifying process, you can start your training towards the three ADI tests. Part 1: theory test Part 2: practical driving test Part 3: instructional ability test. You’ll have to pass the tests in this order and you must pass them within a two-year period before you can join the ADI register. ​Once you have completed Part 1 we advise you undergo some driver training to get you prepared for part 2. Most drivers develop habits over the years that need to be ironed out. You only get 3 attempts at this part otherwise you have to wait 2 years before you can start again from scratch. Each attempt is costly and time consuming to you. Once you have successfully completed part 2 then we can undergo the relevant training for part 3. When we think you are ready you can apply for a pink PDI badge which will allow you to teach whilst getting paid with real students that we can provide for you. Some of this will involve us observing your teaching so that you can develop the right skills to pass part 3. You will be required to take 40 hours of Part 3 training before you will be entitled to apply for a trainee licence. We can offer more training if you need it or request it. Want to know more? Call Simon on 07905657229 or email 4frontdrivingschool@gmail.com Visit our website at www.4frontdrivingschool.co.uk #4frontDrivingSchool #pdi #Leicestershire #adi #drivinginstructortrainingloughborough #drivinginstructortraining #howtobecomeadrivinginstructor

  • Motorway Signs

    Motorway Information Signs All motorway signs are blue. The following table identifies the most common signs and what they mean. Read on for more information on Motorway Driving Pass Plus can help you get to grips with parts of driving you may not have covered in much detail in your lessons such as motorway driving. Alternatively, you could ask your driving instructor to take you for a couple of extra lessons in areas such as this to build your confidence. Or we may suggest this as part of driver training. Pass plus can be covered after your test, read on to find out more about Plus and how 4front Driving School could help you. If you are interested in learning to drive then please call Simon at 4front Driving School on 07905657229 Or visit our website on http://www.4frontdrivingschool.co.uk You can email 4frontdrivingschool@gmail.com Or visit our Facebook Page at http://www.facebook.com/4frontdrivingschool #4frontDrivingSchool #learningsigns #DrivingInstructorLoughborough #motorwaydriving #passplus #motorwaysigns #localdrivingSchool #DrivingLessonsLoughborough

  • Motorway Driving

    Motorway Driving Make sure your car is ready for a drive on the Motorway High speeds and long distances can increase the chance of your car breaking down so you are recommended to carry out the following checks on your vehicle beforehand: Tyres: Make sure they’re in good condition and inflated to the correct pressure for motorway driving. This is indicated in the vehicle handbook or drivers door pannel. Use a reliable pressure gauge, check and adjust pressures when tyres are cold, don’t forget spare tyre, remember to refit valve caps. Check the tyre tyres depth and that there are no cuts and bulges. There should be 1.6mm of tread depth across the central three-quarters of the breadth of the tyre, and around the entire outer circumference of the tyre. Displaying any faults?: Make sure there are no mechanical faults lit up on the dash display. Mirrors: Make sure your mirrors are visibily clean and correctly positioned. Windscreen and windows: Make sure they are visible clear, clean and that the screen wash has been topped up. Lights and indicators: Make sure that you have checked all your lights are working correctly including brake lights. Fuel: Make sure you have more than enough fuel so you don’t run out between service areas, remember that you may get caught in traffic which can consume unplanned fuel. Oil Level: Check that the oil level is correct before you set off when the engine is cool. Identify dipstick/oil level indicator, check the oil level against the minimum and maximum markers. Hydraulic Brake Fluid Level: Identify the reservoir, check the level against high and low markings. Coolant: Check that the engine coolant level is correct. Higher speeds mean higher engine temperature. Identify high and low level markings on header tank where fitted or radiator filler and top up if needed. Brakes: Check your brakes before setting off. Brakes should not feel spongy or slack. Brakes should be tested as you set off. Vehicle should not pull to one side. Power Steering:  check that your power steering is functioning correctly. If it is not functioning correctly the steering becomes heavy, the system may not be working properly. Before starting a journey, 2 simple checks can be made. Apply gentle pressure on the steering wheel, maintained while the engine is started, should result in a slight but noticeable movement as the system begins to operate. Alternatively turning the steering wheel just after moving off will give an immediate indication that the power assistance is functioning. Load and Capacity: Make sure that any load you’re carrying is secure and that you have taken into consideration the vehicles maximum load capacity. The load you are carrying should also not obscure your visibility. Your Own Preparation As A Driver Before Driving On The Motorway You should have a thorough understanding of the section of the Highway Code dealing with motorways. You can ask for  this to be covered as part of your driver training with your instructor. This can’t be done with anyone other than a qualified instructor when you still have a provisional license. After you have passed your driving-test you can take your Pass Plus which also covers Motorway Driving  so that you can gain experience and build on your confidence and understanding. You should be familiar with motorway signs. You should be fit and alert. Never set out on a journey if you’re unwell or tired, especially on a motorway. Take an energy or caffeinated drink and snack with you encase you feel tired and pull into a safe place such as a service station to have a rest or break. Journey Planning Plan your route beforehand with a map or sat nav. Have a back up plan encase you need a diversion due to unforeseen traffic jams. Estimate journey time and leave enough time so that you won’t be late and factor in the time needed to take sufficient breaks along the way. Allow for these regular breaks and refreshments at sufficient intervals during the journe How to join the Motorway Safely On the slip road, Check your mirrors and indicate right. Traffic on the motorway has priority, but look out for drivers letting you join, otherwise you need to judge a safe opportunity to join. If the left lane of the slip road is clear then use it. If not then use the right lane but do not travel alongside another vehicle as this will cause problems as you merge with the inside lane. Regulate your speed so that you arrive at a gap in the traffic. Whether you speed up or slow down slightly to do this, make sure that by the time you’re merging with the traffic, you’re matching its speed. A sideways glance or look over your right shoulder will verify the position and speed of traffic on the motorway. Don’t stop at the end of the slip road unless queuing to join slow moving traffic. Once on the motorway, cancel your signal and stay to the left hand lane until you’ve had time to judge and adjust to the traffic already on the motorway. Driving  Safely on the Motorway Lane Discipline Where possible return to the left lane after using the middle and right lanes for overtaking. Always keep to the centre of your lane. Only change lanes if you are planning on overtaking or just returning to the left to curise. Overtaking When overtaking, start the MSPSL routine earlier than normal. The higher speeds mean you should give more notice. Before overtaking, make sure there is no fast moving traffic approaching from behind. If there is, then hold off your signal and let it pass first. Don’t leave your signal on as traffic passes, it can be very disconcerting for them and as a result, dangerous. Look out especially for motorbikes. Their narrow profile can make them difficult to see and they sometimes weave between lanes. Consider a blind spot check before changing lanes but make sure your attention returns promptly back to the road ahead. Pull out smoothly, not sharply. Sharp steering at high speeds can cause the vehicle to lose control. Watch out for vehicles pulling out to overtake as you pass them. Watch out for their indicators and be prepared to hold back if need be. You can overtake multiple vehicles in one go. When you see the whole of the vehicle you’re overtaking in the interior mirror, then indicate and pull smoothly back over. Never cross two lanes in one go. Use the MSM routine independently, each time you change lanes. Don’t overtake on the left unless in queuing traffic and the queue on your right is moving more slowly than the one you’re in. Be prepared to change lanes to allow traffic to enter after a motorway junction. Move over in good time. General Motorway Practice Keep your distance from the vehicle in front. Apply the two second rule or the four second rule in the wet. Where chevrons are present, use them to judge your distance. Keep your eyes moving so that you know what’s around you at all times. Things can change very quickly. Brake progressively not sharply. Anticipate well ahead avoiding having to brake suddenly. If you see traffic bunching up ahead, consider putting your hazard lights on to warn following traffic. Don’t stay alongside vehicles, in their blind spots, especially large vehicles. Don’t sit in the middle or right lane if the left lane is clear. Beware when passing large vehicles in the wet. They can create a lot of spray which will temporarily affect your visibility. Beware when passing large vehicles in windy conditions. They can weave and have strong wind turbulence around them. Exiting the Motorway Safely Make sure you are in the left lane way before you are considering entering the slip road. Look out for the signs ahead to tell you when the slip road will appear. There will usually be road signs from one mile of the exit. Don’t rush but get into the left lane in good time. Use your mirrors and signal in good time as you approach the exit, try and apply the signal when you reach the 300 yard marker sign. Maintain the speed of the vehicles in your lane until you’ve entered the slip road. Don’t slow down excessively and cause following vehicles to overtake. Once on the slip road, slow down progressively and be aware that your judgement of speed will have changed after travelling very fast. 40mph may seem like 20mph. Look ahead for bends and junctions and check your speedometer, making sure that you slow down in good time. As the motorway regulations end, look out for signs indicating the new road rules, i.e. speed limit, two or one way traffic. It can take time to adjust back to non-motorway conditions. Be extra careful in this time. If you are interested in learning to drive then please call Simon at 4front Driving School on 07905657229 Or visit our website on http://www.4frontdrivingschool.co.uk You can email 4frontdrivingschool@gmail.com Or visit our Facebook Page at http://www.facebook.com/4frontdrivingschool #4frontDrivingSchool #motorwaydriving #passplus #learningtodriveonthemotorway #localdrivingSchool #DrivingLessonsLoughborough #drivinginstructornearme #drivingsafelyonthemotorway

  • Traffic Lights

    Traffic control lights There is a sequence to remember when it comes to traffic lights, but what do they mean?  (please note that some crossings work differently and an amber flashing light may appear) RED means ‘Stop’. Wait behind the stop line on the carriageway RED AND AMBER also means ‘Stop’. Do not pass through or start until GREEN shows. GREEN means you may go on if the way is clear. Take special care if you intend to turn left or right and give way to pedestrians who are crossing. AMBER means ‘Stop’ at the stop line. You may go on only if the AMBER appears after you have crossed the stop line or are so close to it that to pull up might cause an accident. What about amber flashing lights? Pelican crossings are signal-controlled crossings operated by pedestrians. Push-button controls change the signals. Pelican crossings have no red-and-amber stage before green; instead, they have a flashing amber light. This means you must give way to pedestrians who are already on the crossing. If the crossing is clear, however, you can continue. A GREEN ARROW may be provided in addition to the full green signal if movement in a certain direction is allowed before or after the full green phase. If the way is clear you may go but only in the direction shown by the arrow. You may do this whatever other lights may be showing. White light signals may be provided for trams. Flashing red lights ​At level crossings, lifting bridges, airfields, fire stations, etc. At level crossings, lifting bridges, airfields, fire stations, etc. ​Motorway signals You MUST NOT proceed further in this lane Change lane Reduced visibility ahead Lane ahead closed Temporary maximum speed advised and information message Leave motorway at next exit Temporary maximum speed advised End of restriction Lane control signals . Lane control signals Green arrow – lane available to traffic facing the sign Red crosses – lane closed to traffic facing the sign ​White diagonal arrow – change lanes in direction shown If you are interested in learning to drive then please call Simon at 4front Driving School on 07905657229 Or visit our website on http://www.4frontdrivingschool.co.uk You can email 4frontdrivingschool@gmail.com Or visit our Facebook Page at http://www.facebook.com/4frontdrivingschool #4frontDrivingSchool #learningtrafficlights #DrivingInstructorLoughborough #trafficlightsequences #trafficlights #understandingtrafficlights #DrivingLessonsLoughborough #rulesoftheroad

  • The 2 second Rule

    The 2 Second Rule When you learn to drive with 4front Driving School, you are taught to be a better and safer driver. One of the key factors to drive safely is to keep at least a 2 second gap between you and the vehicle In front at all times. You will realise that the following distance increases the faster you go but the time it takes you to get to the same point as the vehicle In front stays the same. We need to keep a safe distance so that we have enough time to think and react. As we all know safety on the road is paramount, but so often drivers just don’t pay attention to the two second rule. If you find that the vehicle behind you is ignoring this rule and following too close we suggest reducing the speed slightly and increase the distance between you and the vehicle In front so that you reduce the risk of needing to brake hard. So, what is the two second rule? Well, one second is the distance between yourself and the car in front. One second (or one car) is the equivalent space of 5mph, but this is insufficient to produce a safe stopping distance. The two second rule is equal to two cars or 10mph and covers a safer braking distance to stop. The two second rule can even be implemented at very high speeds. However, it is generally wiser to be safer and give more space by tripling the seconds to stop. The accurate way to count is to speak it out when following the car in front. You can try it next time your in the car (hopefully, your not reading this now while driving). Simply pick a marker that the car passes in front and count until you pass it. Some drivers might say one thousand, two one thousand and three one thousand. Although, most motorists believe it is easier to say ‘only a fool breaks the two second rule’, this saying literally takes two seconds to say and can serve as an important reminder. TIP: The two second rule ought to be more than doubled if the weather is treacherous, for instance in heavy rain, fog, poor lighting and even night time driving. This is because the stopping distance can double in wet conditions. As the stopping distance doubles in wet conditions it can increase 10x in snow and ice. Therefore you should reduce your following distance even more in these conditions. It is sensible to use the counting method rather than take your eyes off the road to judge distances. The counting method was created to reduce accidents. Some motorists ignore the rule and feel, tailgating or road rage is okay. What should you do if you’re being tailgated or you find yourself in the middle of a road rage? It would be prudent to pull over into another lane or take the next exit to avoid an accident. If you are interested in learning to drive then please call Simon at 4front Driving School on 07905657229 Or visit our website on http://www.4frontdrivingschool.co.uk You can email 4frontdrivingschool@gmail.com Or visit our Facebook Page at http://www.facebook.com/4frontdrivingschool #DrivingInstructorLoughborough #4frontdrivingschooldrivingschoolloughborough #followingdistance #the2secondrule #drivingschoolnearme #drivinginstructornearme

  • Stopping Distances

    What is stopping distance? Stopping distance is the time that it takes to bring a moving car to a complete stop. This includes the time it takes you to react to the hazard (thinking distance), and the time it takes for the brakes to stop the car (braking distance) You can calculate it with this stopping distance formula: Stopping distance = thinking distance + braking distance When driving, you should leave enough clear distance in front of you to be able to come to a stop. This is in case the traffic suddenly slows down, causing you to brake. We can achieve this by following the 2 second rule However, stopping distances vary depending on factors like the weather and your driving speed. Stopping distances Stopping distances include the distance travelled while the driver notices a hazard and applies the brakes (thinking distance), and while the vehicle comes to a full stop from its initial speed (braking distance). The government’s official estimates of stopping distances for cars are shown below. SpeedThinking + braking distanceStopping distance20mph6m + 6m12m (40 feet)30mph9m + 14m23m (75 feet)40mph12m + 24m36m (118 feet)50mph15m + 38m53m (174 feet)60mph18m + 55m73m (240 feet)70mph21m + 75m96m (315 feet) The distances above are based on a reaction time of 0.67 seconds, which assumes the driver is alert, concentrating and not impaired. Driving when tired, distracted or impaired significantly increases reaction times, so the thinking distances above should be regarded as minimums. The braking distance depends on how fast the vehicle was travelling before the brakes were applied, and is proportional to the square of the initial speed. That means even small increases in speed mean significantly longer braking distances. Braking distances are much longer for larger and heavier vehicles, and in wet or icy conditions, so again these figures are a minimum. Technology such as anti-lock brakes and stability control are designed to enable greater control over the vehicle, not shorten stopping distances. There may be a very small reduction in braking distance with modern technology, but not enough to significantly affect your overall stopping distance. Whatever technology a vehicle has, the basic fact remains that the faster you drive, the longer your stopping distance, and therefore the less chance you have of stopping in time in an emergency. If you are interested in learning to drive then please call Simon at 4front Driving School on 07905657229 Or visit our website on http://www.4frontdrivingschool.co.uk You can email 4frontdrivingschool@gmail.com Or visit our Facebook Page at http://www.facebook.com/4frontdrivingschool #4frontDrivingSchool #brakingdistance #stoppingdistance #DrivingSchoolLoughborough #drivinglessons #DrivingLessonsLoughborough

  • Green Filter Lights

    Traffic Filter Lights A green (arrow) traffic filter light allows traffic to proceed in the direction of the arrow. A directional green filter arrow means that you have priority over traffic as their lights will be on red when you make the turn. As with all junctions be aware of pedestrians and cyclists whilst making the turn. Just because you have priority, there is a possibility of another vehicle, cyclist or pedestrian crossing or being where they shouldn’t be. If you face this situation then you are expected to react in time. It is also relatively common for a learner driver to focus primarily on the red light and not notice the green filter light is illuminated allowing you to proceed. During a driving test, if you have not acknowledged the green filter light for a period of time or the examiner even makes you aware of the illuminated filter, it could go against you in the driving test. A filter light may illuminate before or after the full green phase. Ensure you keep an eye on the filter light as well as the main lights. Filter lights help with the flow of traffic and are not always in use, so not expect the same sequence when you next approach the same set of lights. It depends on the time of the day and how it has been programmed to help with the flow of traffic at that particular time of day, Traffic filter lights can be located anywhere including box junctions. Make sure that you are aware if a yellow box junction is present. If a green filter light is lit, you may only proceed if your exit is clear and you must not stop on the yellow box. When the green filter light is on Below the red car turning right at a crossroads has priority where a filter traffic light is directing traffic turning right. If you are turning right as the diagram suggests and the green filter traffic light is lit, then the oncoming traffic will have a red light giving you priority. When the green filter light is off If turning right and your green filter light is off, but the green solid light is still lit, then you can still proceed providing you give way to oncoming vehicles and wait at the point of turn, just as you would when turning right into any new road. Traffic light turns red If you are waiting to turn right and the lights change from green to red, ensure you exit the junction by turning right when the remaining oncoming vehicles have stopped. Never remain inside the junction as you will stop the flow of traffic. Note – you have already crossed the stop line so you have made the decision to go therefore you must complete the manoeuvre that you have decided to do. Traffic Light Stop Lines All traffic lights have a stop line. Advanced stop lines such as the images above allow for cyclists to stop ahead of other vehicles in a bay often in a alternative colour to the road. All traffic must stop at the first line when the lights are red and avoid entering the cycle bay when stationary. During Your Driving Test During your driving test, dealing with traffic lights will require a similar technique to dealing with junctions and other situations. The MSPSL (Mirror, Signal, Position, Speed and Look) routine must be applied. A good level of awareness and planning is also required. For example, if approaching traffic lights and from a distance they have been on green for some time, as you approach, be aware that there is a good chance that they may change to red and try to plan for this in advance. This is a similar awareness and planning procedure that needs to be applied to  traffic lights at pedestrian crossings, so if you see ahead people waiting to cross as you approach, then there is a good chance that the lights will change before you get there. If you are interested in learning to drive then please call Simon at 4front Driving School on 07905657229 Or visit our website on http://www.4frontdrivingschool.co.uk You can email 4frontdrivingschool@gmail.com Or visit our Facebook Page at http://www.facebook.com/4frontdrivingschool #4frontDrivingSchool #DrivingInstructorLoughborough #filterlights #trafficlightsequences #greenfilterlights #drivinginstructornearme #DrivingTest #drivingkessonslughborough

  • Awareness Planning and Anticipation

    Awareness, Planning and Anticipation To anticipate, is to take action when you expect something will or might happen, or rather when a road hazard will cause you to slow down, change direction or stop. The way you anticipate what might happen is to make early use of all the information available to you. To do this effectively you need to be constantly aware of what is happening around you. You should constantly be scanning the road ahead and checking your mirrors. Take in as much information as you can. Be aware of what is happening: ahead behind to the side Keep your eyes moving. Pay attention to the middle and far distance, not just what is happening immediately ahead of you. Try and see the bigger picture, don’t allow your eyes to be drawn to just one area. Looking further ahead will enable you to see things earlier and give you more time to deal with any hazard that might be developing. Always expect the unexpected – not all hazards can be anticipated The laws of physics make it impossible for a car to stop dead. Similarly it is impossible for you to instantly react and apply the brakes. (See braking/thinking distances in the Highway Code). This is why you need to anticipate what might happen next and plan a course of action rather than wait until it actually happens. Although the examiner is not requiring you to do this as well as an experienced driver he or she will expect you to anticipate and act upon the more common hazards that occur. What the examiner is looking for The examiner is checking that you Take every opportunity to look, see and act on what’s happening well ahead and around you Particularly recognise the potential hazards that vulnerable road users can present and act accordingly Use the MSM routine on approach to any potential hazards Act upon any potential hazards by adjusting speed or position or both Slow down and stop where it becomes necessary to avoid dangers. Driving faults recorded 26 Awareness and planning: Not anticipating that pedestrians are about to cross the road at any time. Not giving way to pedestrians at junctions or pedestrian crossings. Not anticipating that cyclists may be passing on the left or right. Not anticipating that cyclists are about to make a change of direction. Not anticipating or showing awareness of direction signals given by other drivers. Not anticipating or showing awareness of vehicles displaying hazard flashers. Not anticipating or showing awareness of vehicles reversing lights. Not anticipating or showing awareness of brake lights on other vehicles. Not anticipating the actions of other drivers changing speed or direction. If you are interested in learning to drive then please call Simon at 4front Driving School on 07905657229 Or visit our website on http://www.4frontdrivingschool.co.uk You can email 4frontdrivingschool@gmail.com Or visit our Facebook Page at http://www.facebook.com/4frontdrivingschool #4frontDrivingSchool #hazardperception #awarenessandplanning #DrivingLessonsLoughborough #awarenessplanninganticipation

  • Park Road Roundabout Loughborough

    Learning how the roundabouts near you work is important. What lane to be in to go where you need to go, which roundabouts have clear directional markings, which roundabouts are spiral roundabouts, which roundabouts are traffic light controlled, which aren’t, which roundabouts that have crossings or lights on approach or at the exit. Park Road Roundabout Loughborough Tip – in heavy traffic keep your vehicle out of the keep clear markings so that you don’t block the roundabout junctions. Traffic can build up on this roundabout when the traffic lights on the crossings near some of the exits of the roundabout cause traffic to stop. Be cautious entering the roundabout when traffic is stationary even if the keep clear markings are clear as it can become difficult to see to the right of the stationary traffic in some situations. Don’t be put under pressure from vehicles behind you. Make sure your decision to go is a safe one. If you are interested in learning to drive then please call Simon at 4front Driving School on 07905657229 Or visit our website on http://www.4frontdrivingschool.co.uk You can email 4frontdrivingschool@gmail.com Or visit our Facebook Page at http://www.facebook.com/4frontdrivingschool #4frontDrivingSchool #Roundabouts #roundaboutsLoughborough #learnyourlanes #DrivingLessonsLoughborough

  • Clutch Control

    LEARNING CLUTCH CONTROL Clutch control is important to avoid stalling, being able to pull away smoothly, control the speed of the pull away and to be able to pull away efficiently on a hill. Manoeuvres also require a high level of clutch control by keeping the car at an incredibly slow steady speed so that you are in control. To work the clutch – Depress the clutch fully and select first gear. Provide the engine with a little extra power if necessary by very gently pressing the accelerator so that the rev counter reads around 1500 rpm. Ensure before your car moves that it is safe to do so and now very slowly, raise the clutch. When the clutch plates just start to meet, this is called the biting point. You will know it’s the at the bite point when the car will slowly start to move. The bite point will always be in the same place for that particular car. The key here is with plenty of practice is to remember where the bite point is. You may wish to practice finding the bite with the handbrake on and try holding the bite then depressing the clutch and repeat the process until you feel confident with it. With the handbrake off and the fact that you have found the bite point, the car is slowly starting to move forward, now fully depress the clutch and gently brake to a stop. Keep repeating the process by giving the engine a little power and very slowly lifting the clutch till the car starts to move and fully depressing the clutch. By repeating this, you will gain an understanding where the bite point occurs. Once you have got the hang of that, try it again but instead of fully depressing the clutch once the car starts to move, press the clutch just a small amount. By doing this you are slightly releasing the clutch plates, disengaging the wheels and letting the car slow down. As soon as the car has slowed slightly, lift the clutch around the same point again to move the car once more. Essentially what you are trying to achieve is to keep the car moving but at the slowest possible speed. We call this creeping forward and is required to perform the driving manoeuvres as well as emerging from Junctions. MOVING A CAR OFF QUICKLY To move off quickly you will need to first find the bite, hold it and then provide significantly more gas/revs to the engine. By providing more gas, in the region of 2500 rpm, you are able to bring the clutch up faster without fear of stalling. This will enable you to move the car off much faster in situations such as busy roundabouts and pulling out of junctions. Be a little cautious however as giving the car too much gas and releasing the clutch too fast may result in the wheels spining TECHNIQUES More advanced clutch control techniques will need to be mastered for holding the car steady on the clutch bite point. These techniques are important for safely moving a car off on a hill. CLUTCH CONTROL ON A HILL If you stop on a hill, the process is similar to above, except you will require the use of the handbrake. Once stopped: Apply the handbrake and select first gear. Provide the engine with a little extra power, again around 1500 rpm to 2000 rpm on the rev counter. Gently raise the clutch until you reach the bite point. You will know when you have the bite point as the car may creak a little or the bonnet may rise slightly as the car tries to move forward but cannot due to the handbrake being applied. Provided you have the clutch bite point, the car will not roll backwards when you release the handbrake. CLUTCH CONTROL IN TRAFFIC During driving lessons and the driving test, there will be plenty of occasions that you stop in traffic. Look well ahead for any indication that the traffic is starting to move. This can be traffic lights changing ahead or through other car windows. This will better prepare you to move the car off and less likely to stall. Try to get into the habit of fully depressing the clutch while stationary and finding the bite point just before moving off. This will reduce the wear and tear of the clutch or the possible clutch burning. CLUTCH CONTROL AT JUNCTIONS During the driving test, you will likely be taken through many different types of junctions. Often the most challenging are closed junction. A closed junction is very difficult to observe and approaching traffic as there are often obstacles blocking your view. These can be tree’s, bushes, fences etc. A high level of clutch control is required at these types of junctions as you will need the ability to move forward very slowly. Fractionally pressing the clutch just under the bite point to slow the car and lifting very slightly to move forward. The technique for Learning clutch control should be employed in such instances. We call this creep and peak. Quick and constant observations should be made and the ability to quickly depress the clutch and brake if there is need to stop. SLIPPING THE CLUTCH Slipping the clutch is referred to when the clutch is lowered and raised in the bite point area to keep the car moving slowly. Slipping the clutch is used when moving very slowly in traffic or when performing driving manoeuvres such as the Parralel Park. RIDING THE CLUTCH Whilst driving at a steady speed on a clear road, ideally the driver should remove their foot from resting on the clutch and place it on the foot well floor or a dead pedal (place to rest your foot) if the vehicle has one. If a driver rests the foot on the clutch whilst driving, this is referred to riding the clutch. Clutches contain a clutch release bearing which applies pressure to the pressure plates to aid releasing the clutch plates. Resting your foot on the clutch can cause wear on the release bearing and too much pressure can cause the plates themselves to slip, causing significant wear to the clutch plate friction material. If you are interested in learning to drive then please call Simon at 4front Driving School on 07905657229 Or visit our website on http://www.4frontdrivingschool.co.uk You can email 4frontdrivingschool@gmail.com Or visit our Facebook Page at http://www.facebook.com/4frontdrivingschool #4frontDrivingSchool #learningtodrive #DrivingInstructorLoughboroughl #DrivingSchoolLoughborough #DrivingLessonsLoughboroughl #clutchcontrol

  • Speed Limits

    National speed limitsType of vehicleBuilt-up areas mph (km/h)Single carriageways mph (km/h)Dual carriageways mph (km/h)Motorways mph (km/h)Cars, motorcycles, car-derived vans and dual-purpose vehicles30 (48)60 (96)70 (112)70 (112)Cars, motorcycles, car-derived vans and dual-purpose vehicles when towing caravans or trailers30 (48)50 (80)60 (96)60 (96)Motorhomes or motor caravans (not more than 3.05 tonnes maximum unladen weight)30 (48)60 (96)70 (112)70 (112)Motorhomes or motor caravans (more than 3.05 tonnes maximum unladen weight)30 (48)50 (80)60 (96)70 (112)Buses, coaches and minibuses (not more than 12 metres overall length)30 (48)50 (80)60 (96)70 (112)Buses, coaches and minibuses (more than 12 metres overall length)30 (48)50 (80)60 (96)60 (96)Goods vehicles (not more than 7.5 tonnes maximum laden weight)30 (48)50 (80)60 (96)70 (112) 60 (96) if articulated or towing a trailerGoods vehicles (more than 7.5 tonnes maximum laden weight) in England and Wales30 (48)50 (80)60 (96)60 (96)Goods vehicles (more than 7.5 tonnes maximum laden weight) in Scotland Locally set speed limits Local councils can set their own speed limits in certain areas, and these must be clearly signed. For example: 20 mph zone in a built-up area near a school 50 mph (rather than 60 mph) limit on a stretch of road with sharp bends If you are interested in learning to drive then please call Simon at 4front Driving School on 07905657229 Or visit our website on http://www.4frontdrivingschool.co.uk You can email 4frontdrivingschool@gmail.com Or visit our Facebook Page at http://www.facebook.com/4frontdrivingschool30 (48)40 (64)50 (80)60 (96) #4frontDrivingSchool #DrivingInstructorLoughborough #SpeedLimitsUK #DrivingSchoolLoughborough #DrivingLessonsLoughborough

bottom of page