What would becoming a more skillful rider mean to you? Better road positioning? Enhanced observation skills? Or simply better bike control? KAMG’s courses improve skills to increasingly advanced levels, helping you get more out of riding – more skill, more confidence, more fun.
For further details on any of our courses, please email KAMG’s Chief Observer at chiefobserver@kamg.org.uk
This is IAM Roadsmart’s core qualification. You’ll be paired with one of our highly skilled Observers, themselves Advanced Riders who hold an additional Institute of the Motor Industry qualification. Over a series of observed rides, you’ll develop your riding skills and learn how to apply the ‘IPSGA’ framework (Information, Position, Speed, Gear, Acceleration) to all on-road situations including on bends, motorways and during overtakes.
We’ll give you a handbook to help you keep track of your progress, and you’ll have time to practise and hone your new skills between each session. And you’ll be very welcome to take advantage of KAMG’s extra-curricular training days, group rides, tours and social events – including our monthly Group Night held at The Kentagon, Brands Hatch. When you’re ready, your Observer will put you forward for your Advanced Test with one of our Examiners. Upon completion, you’ll gain IAM Advanced Rider status – your ‘green badge’.
The IAM RoadSmart F1RST Register recognises excellence during your advanced rider test. Members will receive a special F1RST certificate and their names entered into the IAM F1RST register. F1RST standard is attained by taking the advanced test and achieving a score of 1 in every* category. Existing IAM members may take a Member’s Assessment in order to try and achieve the all-1s score*. Riders who hold the equivalent of a police advanced qualification may join the IAM and will be awarded F1RST status.
* Our Examiners have the discretion to recommend a candidate even if they score a ‘2’ in no more than three categories (however Legality and Slow Manouevring must score a ‘1’)
IAM research shows that advanced riding skills deteriorate over time, and that three years is a pivotal timeframe in which to refresh and renew those skills. Our Fellows membership tier is open to all current full IAM RoadSmart members, and provides you with enhanced recognition in return for your commitment to keep your skills up to date by retesting every three years.
Check out KAMG’s current ‘Roll of Honour’, which shows recent IAM Roadsmart advanced test passes and Fellows and Master attainments by clicking here
Riding skills and standards can fade over time, so this observed ride provides very useful feedback on your current riding standard. While the IAM suggests a £89 charge for a Members Riding Assessment, at KAMG we do this in the form of an observed ride conducted by one of the training team, over a route at test standard. All we charge is the usual £20 fuel contribution to your Observer, a cuppa and a piece of cake (although some observers are said to prefer a sausage roll).
Open to all current KAMG Full members (ie, green badge holders), our Masters programme provides true one-to-one mentoring support and guidance that will help you to attain the highest standard of civilian riding ability in the country. Building on your skills as an existing advanced rider, the Masters programme will help to enhance and develop your ability even further in the following areas:
Observing with KAMG is a rewarding and enjoyable way to help make our roads safer by training riders to be the best that they can be. As an Observer, you’ll provide one-to-one observed rides to KAMG Associates.
Associates are keen to develop their skills and we want Observers to be with them every step of the way providing positive support, guidance and encouragement. Existing Observers will tell you there’s no better feeling than hearing that your latest associate has passed their advanced test, and the thanks you’ll receive will make all your efforts worthwhile. We’re looking for a combination of excellent riding skills, and the ability to communicate and encourage associates to develop their own skills in a positive, friendly environment.
When you become an IAM RoadSmart Observer, you’ll be presented with an Observer certificate which has been accredited by the IMI (Institute of the Motor Industry). The IAM fund all costs associated with gaining this award.
For further details on any of these courses, please email KAMG’s Chief Observer at chiefobserver@kamg.org.uk
We are always keen to offer more opportunities for our members to progress and develop their skills and knowledge with us. Ultimately this may lead to you becoming one of our team of Examiners.
Traditionally the IAM has recruited Examiners exclusively from serving or retired Class 1 police advanced drivers and riders. However as the number of qualified advanced police reduces, and their standards and training across the country vary, the IAM has widened recruitment to include other qualifications and backgrounds.
If you are interested in the opportunity to become an IAM Examiner, are a qualified police advanced driver or rider, or you hold a current IAM Masters qualification and an IMI National Observer Qualification, then please do call the IAM on 0300 303 1134, and we will register your expression of interest.