PSP’s first class driving academy for haulage and coach drivers

Keeping the skills of haulage and coach drivers in tip top order is the number one aim for a new Plymouth Science Park based company, Fleet Solutions.

Founder Stephen Browne’s background is in haulage and he has spent most of his working life in the transport industry (including time spent driving on the continent).

His passion for driving led him to complete his degree in teaching two years ago. Since then, he has been involved in delivering training to a number of colleges in London and he has also worked with TfL (Transport for London).

His accredited courses ensure lorry and coach drivers are up to date on their knowledge and the law (something which can see frequent changes for road users).

They’re required to undertake 35 hours of accredited training every five years (or they may find themselves operating illegally).

Stephen also provides advice and guidance for companies embarking or renewing their Fleet Operator Recognition Scheme (FORS).

Fleet Solutions can offer training for Transport Managers, from the one-day Operator Licence Awareness Course through to the two-week Level Three qualification for a Transport Manager Certificate of Professional Competence (CPC).

The Driver CPC course sees Stephen sending out drivers on push bikes so they can gain a real sense of what it’s like for ‘vulnerable road users’ – a key part of the course syllabus.

“There are strict criteria for the high standard which drivers must achieve,” he says. “It’s crucial that professional drivers know changes to laws and the introduction of new ones.”

Courses also cover other key areas, from vehicle maintenance through to safe driving and how to properly load a vehicle.

Plymouth Science Park is able to provide Fleet Solutions with everything it needs to be able to provide its training in an outstanding area of corporate excellence – with good road links, ample parking and incredible facilities.

“Everything at Plymouth Science Park is conducive to good learning. The better the surrounding then the more comfortable you feel and the easier it is to learn.”

“Going back into a classroom type environment can be daunting for some people but PSP completely removes all barriers by providing learning in a welcoming, friendly and warm environment.”

“I still drive lorries today and have a real passion for it. It allows me to continue to be able to see things from a driver’s perspective which is crucial for when I deliver a course and helps us to provide training suited to a driver’s needs.”