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“Now you’ve passed the test, you can really learn how to drive.” Why do people say that, over and over again? Think about it for a moment. It’s a damning criticism of how we’re training new drivers. We know that there’s something vital missing from the whole training regime, and we see the driving test as nothing more than an obstacle to be overcome, perhaps not even entirely relevant to “real driving”. Whatever that is. What happens after the test? Do we just “gain experience” throughout the rest of our driving careers, or could there be something left untaught beyond the basics of car control and the highway code? Can we expect new drivers to go out and learn all that by themselves, unsupervised? And what makes a “good driver” anyway? Most of us would say we are, but how do we know? Is there anything we could improve, and would it be worth the effort if we did? I could go on all night, but hopefully you can see where this is going.

After the pass plus scheme, the first port of call for the relative few drivers wanting post-test training is the Institute of Advanced Motorists. Then they discover that enrolling now costs £140, and that’s the end of that. Why would you want to commit to “Advanced Driving” if you don’t know what it is or how it would benefit you? Well, if you’re keen about not only driving safely and responsibly but – heaven forbid – actually enjoying it at the same time then the High Performance Club run an annual ‘taster’ day for under 27 year-olds. I went along last year to see what all the excitement was about and came away inspired, so when I was asked if I’d like to come along again this year I could hardly say no.

After breakfast and a good humoured talk about what “high performance” driving is (it’s all about the driver, not politically incorrect fast cars or high speeds apparently) we’re given demonstration drives by members in their own cars, which range from run-of-the-mill Fiestas to classic Porsches and modern BMW ‘M’ cars. We’re encouraged to ask questions and compare aspects of the demonstration drives with our own driving, before swapping over and taking our mentors out in our own cars. The feedback is helpful and positive, not at all patronising and I come away from the morning with plenty to think about. I’d driven with Phil a couple of times the previous year and at Millbrook, so his insight into how my driving had progressed since then was particularly helpful. Any mention of “workshops” usually breaks me out in a cold sweat, but we have a couple of inspired discussions on overtaking technique and circuit driving (HPC isn’t only about road driving) before we get back into the cars ourselves after lunch.

Take a quick look at HPC’s website and you’ll see that the Club’s values are “Passionate about driving”, “Focussed on self improvement” and “Fun-loving”. Meet any of the members and you’ll realise that they mean every word of that. The enthusiasm from members and other young drivers is infectious, and once again I’m feeling truly uplifted and enlightened. There’s still so much to learn.