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    Driving Standards Agency

    Safe and Responsible Driving

    (Cat B)

    Syllabus V1.0.0

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    Contents

    Introduction 1 

    Syllabus at a glance 2 

     Aim of the syllabus 2

    Who is this syllabus for? 2

    DSA Learning to Drive units 2

    How to use this syllabus 3

    Unit 1: Preparing a car/light van and its occupants for a journey 4

    Unit aim 4 

    Learning outcomes 4 

    Unit content 5 

    Unit 2: Guide and control a car/light van 16Unit aim 16 

    Learning outcomes 16 

    Unit content 17 

    Unit 3: Driving a car/light van in accordance with the Highway Code 300

    Unit aim 300 

    Learning outcomes 300 

    Unit content 311 

    Unit 4: Safe and responsible driving 355

    Unit aim 355 

    Learning outcomes 355 

    Unit content 366 

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    Introducing the Safe and Responsible Driving Syllabus - A message from theChief Driving Examiner

    The Safe and Responsible Driving Syllabus sets out an approach to training drivers inthe skills, knowledge and understanding required to be a safe and responsible driver of

    a Category B vehicle. It is based on the DSA’s National Driving Standard and will

    contribute to DSA’s overall objective of reducing the number of people who are killedand seriously injured on our roads by describing good practice in the field of driver

    training as well as providing a benchmark for performance in underpinning lifelongdriver development.

    It will be of use to trainers, driving schools, individuals, employers, Sector SkillsCouncils and standards setting bodies, regulatory authorities and awarding bodies,

    education and training providers and producers of learning materials.

    The Safe and Responsible Driving Syllabus relies on the body of research andconsultation which provides a firm foundation for the National Standard for Driving. We

    hope it will also provide a bridge between the work of the DSA, the standard settingorganisation for safe and responsible driving, and the providers of driving related

    vocational qualifications.

    In line with our philosophy of safe driving for life, DSA recognises that the Safe andResponsible Driving Syllabus will evolve and develop over time. We also recognise

    that, in a world of client-centred learning there will be many different, but equally valid,ways to deliver the desired learning outcomes. We will be engaging with our key

    stakeholders to ensure that this syllabus remains up-to-date and brings together

    examples of best-practice teaching and training.

    TREVOR WEDGEChief Driving Examiner and Director of Safer Driving

    N.B. The word ‘vehicle’ has been used in the text to cover all types of cars and lightvans included in Category B 

    N.B Anybody wish ing to undertake training in any element of this Syllabus mustensure that they fully comply with all legal requirements.

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    The Syllabus at a glance

     Aim of the syllabus

    This Learning to Drive syllabus is based on the DSA’s Safe and Responsible Driving(Cat B) StandardTM © and provides the basis for the Learning to Drive training process.

    It aims to provide a structured approach to acquiring the skills, knowledge andunderstanding to be a safe and responsible road-user in this class of vehicle.

    Drivers who fully engage with the programme of study and training that this syllabus

    supports will be able to demonstrate:

      their knowledge and understanding of the theory of safe driving

      their ability to apply their theoretical knowledge and understanding while driving

      their ability to reflect on their own driving performance and to recognise the

    need to take remedial action if appropriate

    Who is this syl labus for?

    This syllabus is intended to provide information for:

      the learner (provisional and full licence holders)

      the trainer.*

    *All references in this syllabus to trainer include approved driving instructors (ADIs) andany competent/ qualified person supporting the learner.

    DSA Learning to Drive units

    This syllabus is made up of four units, which are listed below.

    Unit 1: Preparing a car/light van and its occupants for a journey

    Unit 2: Guide and control a car/light vanUnit 3: Driving a car/light van in accordance with the Highway Code

    Unit 4: Safe and responsible driving

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    How to use this syllabus

    The syllabus is divided into nominally free-standing units. However, the underpinningresearch indicates that the process of learning to drive safely and responsibly needs to

    be approached in a joined up way if it is to be successful. Therefore it is important that

    drivers and trainers do not see these units as ‘boxes’ that can be ‘ticked-off’ one-by-one, and in isolation. While the route taken through the material by each learner may

    differ it is important that learners and trainers all understand that a driver can only besaid to be competent when they understand how the content of the units fits togetherand is mutually supportive.

    Each unit is broken down in the following way

      Unit aim

    - which contextualises the unit, and gives an indication of the areas to be covered

    and why this is important in the lifelong learning-to-drive process.

      Learning outcomes

    - which provides a brief overview of what the learning outcome will be as a result ofstudying the unit.

      What you need to be able to do

    - to demonstrate that you have achieved the learning outcomes.

      What you need to know and understand

    - to enable you to demonstrate achievement of the learning outcomes.

      Illustrative guidance for trainers

    - which provides illustrative guidance for trainers to help them understand more fullywhat it is that each element of the syllabus is trying to achieve and how that could

    be tackled in the training process.

    Supporting Documentation 

    This syllabus is based on the DSA Safe and Responsible Driving (Cat B) StandardTM

    which is © copyright of The Queen’s Printer and Controller of HMSO, 2008, and isavailable at www.dsa.gov.uk.

    Detailed information can also be obtained from the following publications:

      Department for Transport – The Official Highway Code (Revised 2007 edition)(TSO, 2007) ISBN: 9780115528149

      Driving Standards Agency Learning Materials – The Official DSA Guide to Driving –

    The Essential Skills (TSO, 2008) ISBN: 9780115528170

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    Unit 1: Preparing a car/light van and itsoccupants for a journey

    Unit aim

    The overall aim of this unit is that a driver should be able to come to an informed

     judgement about whether they, their passengers and their vehicle are fit to undertake a

    particular journey

    This unit explores how a driver’s physical and psychological state, the physical and

    psychological state of any passengers and the roadworthiness of their vehicle can be

    contributory factors in the causes of crashes. It will ensure that the driver has theknowledge to assess their own fitness and their passenger’s fitness and can check that

    their vehicle is safe to drive.

    The unit will help the driver understand the issues involved in carrying passengers,loads and animals safely and securely and how to mitigate the risks that this can

    generate.

    The final learning outcome focuses on the importance of planning a journey beforesetting off, taking account of road, traffic and weather conditions as well as the driver’s

    own fitness and that of their passengers.

    The underlying challenge of the unit is to address the attitudes and misunderstandingsthat prevent drivers acting on the knowledge and understanding that they have.

    Learning outcomes

    Learning outcome

    On completion of this unit you will: 

    LO1: Understand when you are physically and psychologically fit to drive and

    recognise when you are not fit to drive 

    LO2: Understand the responsib ilities of drivers regarding their car/light van andthe law

    LO3: Know how to control the risks associated with carrying passengers, loadsand animals

    LO4: Know how to plan a journey using appropriate transport

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    Unit content

    Learningoutcome

    What you need to be able to do What you need to know and understand

    LO1

    Understandwhen you arephysically and

    psychologically

    fit to drive andrecognise when

    you are not fit todrive

      Understand the negative impact ofdrugs on your ability to drive safelyand responsibly performance

      Make alternative travelarrangements when performance

    will be impaired by drugs

    Know the implications of driving under the influenc

    of drugs

    Know how to recognise the symptoms of drugimpairment.

    Know and understand the law relating to drivingwhile under the influence of drugs

    Understand the possible effects of illegal, over the

    counter and prescribed medication on your physicaand mental ability

    Understand how different medications, which haveno negative impact individually, can combine to

    produce negative effects.

    Understand that it is not always possible to predictwhen the effects of a drug have disappeared from

    the driver’s system.

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    LO2 (cont)  Check vehicle is prepared for you toundertake the journey

      If vehicle is new to you, familiariseyourself with its layout,

    instruments and controls

      Make adjustments to ensure that

    you can drive it in a safe andcomfortable way with good allround visibility as appropriate

      Check there is sufficient fuel

      Ensure vehicle has basic carmaintenance equipment, forexample spare wheel, jack

    Know and understand the layout, instruments andcontrols of the vehicle you are about to use

    Know where to look to identify the appropriate type

    of fuel for the vehicle, for example vehicledocumentation and filler cap signage, e.g. fuel type

    tank capacity, size of reserve tank etc, as set out in

    the vehicle handbook, each time you buy or hire anew vehicle

    Know how to familiarise yourself with a new vehiclee.g. seating adjustments, instrument panel, gears,width, height and length, handling, brakes/ABS,

    ancillary controls such as cruise control control)

    Understand the role of the reserve level indicatorfor low fuel (petrol/diesel)

    Know where basic maintenance equipment is

    located and how it can be accessed in case of

    breakdown.

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    LO2 (cont)  Make sure documentation relating toyourself as a driver and to your

    vehicle meets legal requirements

      Ensure driver licence is valid andsigned for the category of vehicle

    being driven

      Ensure that you have validinsurance for the vehicle youintend to use and the

    circumstances in which you intend

    to use it

      Ensure vehicle registration andvehicle tax are up to date and taxdisc is displayed appropriately in

    vehicle

      Ensure that the vehicle has a

    current MOT certificate (whereapplicable)

    Understand that you must have a valid, signeddriving licence and be aware of any restrictions tha

    may be applicable, for example provisionalentitlement, the ability to tow a trailer, drive amanual car etc.

    Know that you must display red L plates (red D

    plates in Wales) if you are a learner driverKnow where to check the licence category

    entitlement and renewal date of your driving licencwhich is separate from your entitlement end date

    Know that you must inform the DVLA if your nameaddress or medical condition changes.

    Understand the importance of keeping the vehicleRegistration Document up to date and the owner’sresponsibility to ensure that the DVLA are notified

    of any change of ownership

    Understand the Statutory Off-Road Notification(SORN) obligations

    Know how to apply for, and the various channels oapplication for, a vehicle tax disc including renewaand when and where to display the disc

    Understand when an MOT test certificate is

    required

    Know the requirement for valid and legal insurancecertificate covering at least third party liability

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    LO2 (cont)  Understand the factors affecting the cost ofinsurance (for example make of vehicle,

    performance, engine capacity, age of driver, drivinrecord, geographical area of driving, purpose ofdriving such as personal or business use)

    Know that if asked you must be able to produce

    your driving licence, valid insurance certificate andMOT certificate (if applicable) – if not immediately

    then within seven days to the Police

    Did you know?

    Learner drivers must hold a valid provisionallicence and be supervised by someone at least 21

    years old who has held a licence in that category ovehicle for a minimum of 3 years.

    LO3

    Know how to

    control the risks

    associated withcarrying

    passengers,loads andanimals

      Make sure that passengers do notimpact adversely on your ability to

    drive safely and responsibly

    Understand how passengers can distract a driverand interfere with their ability to drive safely and

    responsibly

    Understand that a passenger, who is taking drugs,who is drunk or whose physical capabilities are

    impaired in any way may represent anunacceptable risk to you and other road users andbe able to take appropriate action to mitigate that

    risk.

    Know how to communicate safely with passengersif necessary..

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    LO3 (cont)    Allow for additional or differentvehicle characteristics when

    carrying passengers or a load

      Manage the effect of additionalweight and its distribution

      Manage the effect of reduced

    visibility

    Understand the different vehicle characteristicswhich can affect the carriage of passengers or a

    load, for example cornering and acceleration, thebraking characteristics of a fully laden older vehiclecompared to a modern vehicle with ABS.

    Know how to manage the effects of carrying

    passengers or loads e.g. by adjusting tyrepressures

    Know how to maximise visibility when carryingpassengers or loads.

      Ensure animals are secure andrestrained within the vehicle

      Ensure that animals in the vehicle

    have sufficient air and are notsubjected to extremes of

    temperature

    Know how to secure animals safely andappropriately

    Understand the particular risks that animals pose

    for drivers e.g. interfering with control of thevehicle, causing distractions or becoming a

    physical hazard if it is necessary to brake suddenly

    Understand the conditions animals need whenbeing carried in vehicles (including when left in a

    vehicle) for example adequate ventilation, out of

    direct sunlight etc.

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    Unit 2: Guide and control a car/light van

    Unit aim

    This unit focuses on guiding and controlling the vehicle according to road, traffic andweather conditions. The learner will find out how to complete manoeuvres and then be

    expected to carry them out safely and under control. Manoeuvres include moving off

    safely, using instrumentation to respond to different environments, accelerating andbraking procedures, steering, using the gears correctly, manoeuvring the car andcoordinating the use of different controls. Although the learner may not experience

    towing a trailer or caravan they will learn the principles behind doing it.

    Learning outcomes

    Learning outcome

    On completion of this unit you will: 

    LO1: Understand that learning to drive is an ongoing learning experience

    LO2: Be able to start, move-off, stop and leave a car/light van safely andappropriately

    LO3: Be able to drive and manoeuvre a car/light van safely on different road

    surfaces and in different weather conditions

    LO4: Know how to tow a trailer/caravan

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    Unit content

    Learning

    outcomeWhat you need to be able to do What you need to know and understand

    LO1

    Understand that

    learning to driveis an ongoinglearning

    experience

      Keep up-to-date with changingrules and regulations

      Recognise changes in self andsurrounding environment

      Maintain ongoing self-evaluationof driving performance and adjust

    in response to changes in self andsurrounding environment

      Seek additional driving

    development when appropriate

    Know how to access most up-to-date informationon rules and regulations relating to driving and the

    use of your vehicle.

    Understand the importance of remaining up-to-datincluding your responsibilities as a driver, for

    example any directives relating to driving at work

    Understand that ongoing reflection and self-evaluation is required to stay safe on the road.

    Know how to effectively self-evaluate your ownskills, attitudes and behaviour in relation to driving.

    Know how to recognise changes in self andsurrounding environment, such as physical andpsychological changes, and adjust appropriately,for example when driving abroad, aging and

    responding to aggression from other road users.

    Understand the importance of ongoing driverdevelopment in supporting safe driving.

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    LO2

    Be able to start,

    move off, stopand leave a

    car/light vansafely andappropriately 

      Carry out pre-start checks, inaccordance with the vehiclehandbook and ensure the vehicle

    is secure and safe to start

      Consider the effects of starting theengine on vulnerable road users

    Know your responsibilities and understand the

    importance of carrying out the appropriate checks

    prior to starting the engine.

    Understand why it is important to have the vehicle

    secured and the transmission disengaged whenstarting the engine.

    Know who vulnerable road users are when starting

    the engine, for example elderly

    pedestrians/children nearby or closely passingcyclists or motorcyclists

      Monitor instrumentation and

    gauges throughout engine start up

      Correctly respond to

    instrumentation and gaugesthroughout engine start up

    Know how to use the vehicle manual to identify the

    main visual aids on the instrument panel, forexample oil warning light, revolutions counter,

    parking brake etc. and how these operate during

    start-up

    Understand icons may be set out differently in othe

    vehicles.

    Understand what action to take in the event thatany warning light stays on or fails to come on.

      Start engine using appropriatemethod

    Know different methods of starting vehicles, forexample key, push button, card etc. 

      Switch lights on, if required Know how to use the vehicle handbook to identify

    and operate light switches in your vehicle.

    Know when you would use the vehicle lights, forexample dipped and full head lights and front and

    rear fog lights.

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    LO2 (Cont) Move off safely and smoothly

      move off smoothly whilstmaintaining control

      check brakes when first moving off

      recover quickly and effectively ifcar stalls

      only move off when it is safe to doso, taking all round effective

    observations to include blind areas

      move off safely and under controlat an angle from behind a parked

    vehicle or obstruction

      consider risks to ‘vulnerable’ roadusers.

    Understand the use of the ‘biting point’ whenreleasing the clutch pedal in co-ordination with the

    accelerator pedal where appropriate

    Understand the use of the footbrake when on adownward incline.

    Understand the importance of a rolling brake checwhen first moving off.

    Understand what causes an engine to stall andknow how to rectify safely and effectively.

    Know how to make effective observations including

    knowing the location of any blind spots and how tocheck they are clear before moving away.

    Understand the importance of using a safe and

    systematic routine when intending to move off e.g.observations and appropriate signals

    Be able to coordinate the controls to move off

    safely and under control in different situations.

    Understand who may be particularly ‘vulnerable’ tobeing startled, or in the worst case, injured when

    you move-off, e.g. the elderly, deaf or partiallysighted etc

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      Stop and leave vehicle parked

      stop the vehicle in safe, legal andconvenient position

      use the parking brake to securethe vehicle

      switch off engine and ancillary

    controls

      if appropriate, select a gear that

    makes sure vehicle is safe whenparked and the engine is turned

    off (include park position forautomatic transmission vehicles)

      if appropriate position the steering

    wheels of the vehicle to increasesecurity when parked on a

    gradient

      Leave the vehicle secured

    Understand the importance of selecting a safe,legal and convenient stopping location and

    applying the parking brake before leaving the

    vehicle

    Understand the importance of using a safe and

    systematic routine when intending to stop thevehicle e.g. observations and appropriate signals

    Understand why you must switch off your

    headlights, fog lights and engine when parking.

    Understand the consequences of opening a doorwhen not safe to do so.

    Understand how positioning of the steering wheels

    can assist in ensuring the vehicle is secure on agradient

    Understand the importance of leaving the vehicle

    secured, for example luggage out of sight, doorslocked, applying any additional security measures

    (such as anti-theft devices, alarm and/orimmobiliser and visible security devices)

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        Operate the accelerator smoothlyand effectively to maintain and

    change speed

    Understand the adverse impact on your ability todrive safely and the potential consequences of

    erratic or excessive use of the accelerator,

    especially in slow moving traffic

    Understand the adverse impact on the environmen

    of inappropriate use of the accelerator, e.g.excessive production of harmful emissions orexcessive noise.

    Know when it may be appropriate to allow the

    engine to over run by not using the accelerator.

    Understand the use of cruise control systems and

    their benefits to the environment and potential

    adverse effects such as driver fatigue and safety 

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    LO3 (Cont) Operate brakes effectively

      brake safely using appropriate

    braking techniques

      stop accurately as and where

    necessary

      make appropriate use of theparking brake (

      stop the vehicle in an emergencysafely and under control

    Know how much pressure to apply to the brakes in

    varying road and traffic conditions.

    Understand the principles of varying brakingsystems, for example anti-lock, and know how to

    brake effectively.Understand how overall stopping distances varywith different speeds and road and weather

    conditions and are broken into thinking distance

    and braking distance.

    Understand the importance of looking well ahead t

    be able to stop within the area you can see to be

    clear.

    Understand the physical and dynamic implications

    of braking on bends

    Know how to stop the vehicle as quickly and assafely as possible in an emergency

    Did you know?

     All sorts of vehicles can aquaplane. Aquaplaning

    results from driving too fast on wet roads and canresult in total loss of steering control.

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    LO3 (cont)  Use gears correctly

      change gears smoothly and in goodtime

      use a suitable gear for speed anddriving conditions

      use automatic gear box effectively if

    fitted

    Understand the use of gears to progress safelyand efficiently in a variety of conditions and with

    varying engines.

    Understand and demonstrate selective gear(block) changing in relation to vehicle speed and

    road and traffic conditions.Understand the environmental impact ofinappropriate use of gears

    Understand the effect of vehicle loading and

    timely gear selection when ascending anddescending gradients

    Understand the use of gear selection when

    leaving the vehicle parked on a gradient

    Understand the use of ‘kick down’ to the nextlowest gear on vehicles with automatic

    transmission

    Understand the use of ‘lock up’ on automatictransmissions

    Manual drive cars involving clutch operationonly

    Know how and when to use the clutch around thebiting point to vary very slow pace of the vehicle

    for tight control.

    Know how to use of the clutch to enable smooth

    operation when moving away, changing gears orstopping

    Understand the problems of not fully releasing thclutch or “riding the clutch” during normal driving

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    LO3 (Cont)   Manoeuvre car/light van (cont)

      perform reverse parking correctlywithin controlled parameters with

    due regard to other road users andawareness of blind areas

      turn in road correctly withincontrolled parameters with dueregard for other road users and

    awareness of blind areas

     

    Know the correct procedure for safely carrying ouany reverse parking exercise on road and off

    road, for example how much space is required if

    parking on the road

    Know the correct procedure for safely carrying ou

    a turn in the roadUnderstand why you should not reverse yourvehicle further than necessary

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    LO4

    Know how totow a

    trailer/caravan

    Safely tow trailer/caravan

      Correctly and safely couple anduncouple a trailer/caravan

      ensure load is evenly distributedand secure

      allow more time and brake earlier

    when slowing down or stopping

      allow sufficiently more distance and

    time to overtake safely

      make allowances for extra length ofvehicles, particularly when turning

    or emerging at junctions

    Know the rules and regulations regarding towingtrailers/caravans and the specific nose weight an

    compatibility of your towing vehicle.

    Know how to carry out safe procedures whenuncoupling and re-coupling a caravan/trailer to

    include additional mirrors as and when required.Know how to load and secure the trailer/caravansafely, understand the changes in vehicle

    handling characteristics and how to compensate

    for them when towing a trailer or caravan.

    Understand the importance of checking whether

    height and width restrictions apply to the intended

    route

    Understand how your ability to make effective

    observations may be affected by towing a

    trailer/caravan and understand the strategies forovercoming any problems caused.

    Understand how to safely and correctlynegotiate junctions/turnings and roundabouts

    taking into account the increased dimensions andchanged geometry of the combined units. Know

    how to prepare for the unexpected, for examplethe requirement to carry spare wheels and any

    other necessary equipment for the trailer andwhether rescue service cover will include a trailer

    Safely steer a trailer/caravan in reverse. Understand the principles of steering when

    reversing a trailer/caravan.

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    Unit 3: Driving a car/light van in accordance with the

    Highway Code

    Unit aimThe aim of this unit is to help you understand why it is important to comply with the

    Highway Code and the potential consequences of not doing so. The ultimateconsequence is loss of life either for the driver, the passenger, other road users or the

    pedestrian. You will be encouraged to reflect on your own attitudes about the use of the

    Highway Code and how it influences your behaviour when you are driving.

    The unit also requires you to know the traffic signs and signals that you will encounter

    when driving, understand what to do when you see these signals and then be able to

    put that knowledge and understanding into practice.

    Learning outcomesLearning outcome

    On completion of this unit you will: 

    LO1: Be able to negotiate the road correctly in relation to changing road andtraffic conditions

    LO2: Be able to comply with signals, signage, markings and traffic calming

    measures

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    Unit content

    Learning

    outcomeWhat you need to be able to do What you need to know and understand

    LO1 Be able to

    negotiate theroad safely and

    responsibly inrelation to

    changing roadand trafficconditions

    Negotiate junctions/roundabouts and

     join and leave streams of movingtraffic safely

      Carry out procedures safely andcorrectly when negotiating

     junctions

      Interact safely and appropriatelywith other road users

      Turn left/right and go ahead

    correctly

      Cross the path of oncoming trafficsafely when turning right

      Negotiate cross roads correctly

      Negotiate roundabouts correctly

      Emerge into the traffic stream

    correctly from both left and rightsides

    Understand the issues faced when negotiating the

    various types of junctions and the rules that applyin each case e.g. T junctions, Y junctions,

    staggered junctions, crossroads and roundabouts.

    Know how to go ahead, turn left and right safely at

     junctions/roundabouts

    Understand the importance of a safe andsystematic routine at junctions and roundabouts

    e.g. effective observation and appropriate signallin

    of intentions

    Know how to join and leave streams of moving

    traffic via controlled and uncontrolledacceleration/deceleration lanes

    Know how to cross the path of approaching traffic

    safely

    Understand the importance of showing awarenessand consideration to vulnerable road users When

    negotiating junctions etc.

    Understand why some road users positiondifferently at junctions/roundabouts

    Understand how the operation of Active TrafficManagement systems may effect the operation ofparticular junctions /lanes

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    LO1 (cont)   Maintain correct position on theroad

      Keep to the left in normal driving,

    unless otherwise dictated

      Use correct lane

      Maintain correct position in lane

      Change lane safely andresponsibly when necessary

    Understand the importance of maintaining a correcroad position when driving ahead and when

    negotiating bends

    Understand the importance of lane discipline andappropriate lane selection and use, including one

    way streetsKnow how to make effective observations andsignal intentions clearly and in good time before

    changing lanes

    Understand the risk factors to take into accountwhen judging approach speed and positioning on

    bends (for example type and conditions of the road

    Know that you must not enter a road, lane or otherroute reserved for trams

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    LO2 (cont) Comply with signals given by others

      Comply with signals given by anyauthorised persons including

    police officers, traffic wardens,school crossing wardens,

    Highways Agency Traffic Officersand VOSA officials

      Respond appropriately to signals

    given by other road users

     

    Know who has authority to stop or direct you onthe road and understand their arm signals.

    Understand the importance of stopping when a

    school crossing patrol shows a ‘stop for children’sign

    Understand the signals given by other road usersand be aware of potential misunderstandings.

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    Unit content

    Learningoutcome

    What you need to be able to do What you need to know and understand

    LO1

    Be able tointeract safelyand responsibly

    with other road

    users in varyingroad and traffic

    conditions

    Communicate intentions to other road

    users

      Give timely, clear and correctsignals according to the Highway

    Code

      Position vehicle appropriately tosupport signal intention

      Use horn and lights correctly as ameans of communication to otherroad users

       Avoid displaying aggressive or

    negative behaviour towards otherroad users

    Understand the correct use of all signals according

    to the Highway Code and know when they need to

    be given

    Understand the importance of ensuring signals are

    cancelled appropriately

    Know how to link the use of signals to theapplication of a safe and systematic system such

    as the Mirrors – Signal – Manoeuvre routine

    Understand how positioning of the vehicle canreinforce or contradict the signals you are giving.

    Know the rules governing the use of the horn and

    headlights as an appropriate means of warning.

    Know how and when to use hazard warning lightswhere fitted and the rules governing their use.

    Understand how inappropriate behaviour orresponses on the part of the driver can lead tofurther inappropriate responses and behaviour by

    other road users

    Know how to manage your own behaviour whiledriving to avoid aggressive or negative behaviour

    towards other road users and to minimise

    aggressive or negative behaviour towards you

    Know that demonstrating courtesy and restraint

    can have a positive effect on others

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    LO1 (cont)  Cooperate with other road users

       Allow for others’ mistakes

      Monitor and manage own reactionto other road users

      Show awareness and anticipation

    of other road users and give themsufficient time and space on theroad

      Make progress in the traffic stream

    when safe and appropriate

      Identify and respond to vulnerableroad users correctly

      Respond to emergency vehiclesappropriately

    Understand how awareness and anticipation ofother road users, and a positive response, can

    contribute to a safe driving environment.

    Know when and where it is appropriate to makeprogress and understand how failing to do so can

    lead to negative behaviours in other road users.

    Understand the importance of allowing other roadusers the time and space they need in varying road

    and traffic conditions, for example when overtaking

    Understand the particular needs of road userswhose ability to manoeuvre is limited in some way,e.g. by disability or age or lack of experience

    Know how to respond appropriately whenemergency vehicles are on call and how to assisttheir safe progress where possible whether

    approaching from behind, ahead or from side road

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    Did you know?

    Research has proved that a driver’s level of

    attention is at least as badly affected by using a

    mobile phone as it is by drinking.

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    LO2 (cont) Follow principles of eco-safe driving

      Remove excess weight including

    roof rack/storage from vehicle

    when not needed

      Plan well ahead

       Accelerate, decelerate and brakesmoothly and progressively tominimise fuel consumption

      Use the highest gear appropriate

    to the road and traffic conditions

      Use cruise control, where andwhen appropriate

      Make appropriate decisions aboutthe use of ancillary equipment

      Turn engine off, when appropriate

    Understand why you should not put eco-drivingtechniques above safe driving principles

    Understand how carrying unnecessary equipment

    or luggage such as roof top boxes can increasefuel consumption

    Know how to forward plan (linked to the early

    identification of hazards to avoid harsh acceleratioand braking).

    Understand the importance of the smooth

    application of all controls, for example smoothacceleration, minimising unnecessary revving.

    Understand the environmental benefits of using the

    highest gear possible and recognise when tochange down to avoid engine labour

    Know the benefits of using cruise control to

    minimise fuel consumption. Additionally how

    appropriate engine braking can benefit fuelconsumption/wear and tear

    Know the effects of ancillary equipment on fuelconsumption, for example air conditioning, heatedwindscreens etc.

    Know when it is appropriate to turn the engine off,

    for example at a level crossing, traffic queues.

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