Master the road with Sterling Driving Academy

Vehicle Control

  • Steering techniques (pull-push, hand-over-hand)
  • Accelerator and brake control
  • Clutch control (for manual transmissions)
  • Gear changing smoothly

Manoeuvring

  • Parallel parking
  • Bay parking (forward and reverse)
  • Turning in the road
  • Reversing around corners

Junction Procedures

  • Approach speed and gear selection
  • Correct lane positioning
  • Priority rules (give way, stop signs)
  • Emerging safely

Defensive Driving

  • Maintaining safe following distances
  • Hazard perception and reaction
  • Weather condition adjustments
  • Night driving techniques

Speed Management

  • Adapting to road conditions
  • National speed limits
  • Approaching hazards
  • Progressive braking

Observation Skills

  • Mirror checks (regular and systematic)
  • Blind spot awareness
  • 360° awareness at junctions
  • Anticipating other road users' actions

Comprehensive Driving Skills Matrix

Master essential driving techniques with our structured learning framework

Vehicle Control Fundamentals

Steering Techniques

  • Pull-push: Keep hands at 9 & 3, slide up/down
  • Hand-over-hand: For sharp turns and maneuvers

Pedal Control

  • Accelerator: Smooth pressure adjustments
  • Brake: Progressive pressure application
  • Clutch: Find biting point (manual only)

Moving & Stopping

POM Routine

  • Prepare: Gear selection & gas
  • Observe: Full 360° check
  • Move: Smooth release of clutch

MSM Routine

  • Mirrors: Check relevant mirrors first
  • Signal: Clear indication of intentions
  • Manoeuvre: Only when safe

Junction Mastery

Approach Phase

  • Reduce speed appropriately
  • Select correct gear in advance
  • Position vehicle correctly

Observation

  • Multiple looks in all directions
  • Assess speed/distance of other vehicles
  • Watch for pedestrians/cyclists

Roundabout Techniques

Approach Strategy

  • Correct lane selection based on exit
  • Reduce speed appropriately
  • Check mirrors and signal if turning

Navigating

  • Give way to traffic from the right
  • Maintain lane discipline
  • Signal left after passing exit before yours

Key Manoeuvres

Parallel Parking

  • Align with target vehicle (1m gap)
  • Reverse at 45° angle
  • Straighten when at 45° to curb

Bay Parking

  • Use reference points for alignment
  • Forward and reverse methods
  • Center vehicle in bay

Defensive Driving

Space Management

  • 2-second following rule
  • Increase gap in poor conditions
  • Escape routes planning

Hazard Awareness

  • Scan 12-15 seconds ahead
  • Identify potential dangers early
  • Anticipate other road users

Speed Control

Appropriate Speed

  • Adapt to road conditions
  • Understand speed limits
  • Adjust for visibility/traffic

Braking Techniques

  • Progressive braking
  • Engine braking when appropriate
  • Emergency stop procedure

Advanced Observation

Mirror Checks

  • Regular systematic checking
  • Before signaling/changing position
  • Blind spot awareness

Situational Awareness

  • 360° checks at junctions
  • Anticipate others' actions
  • Watch for vulnerable road users

Adverse Conditions

Weather Adaptations

  • Rain: Increase following distance
  • Fog: Use fog lights appropriately
  • Ice/Snow: Gentle inputs, higher gear

Night Driving

  • Proper use of headlights
  • Increased observation
  • Adjust speed for visibility

DRIVER ENQUIRY FORM

Contact Us

Get in touch with Sterling Driving Academy

Phone: +44 7916 606190

Email: udmsom@gmail.com

Islington, London, England

DVSA