By Paul Huskins, Driver Development Specialist, TGS Training Partner

A Week of Learning, Collaboration, and Shared Growth

Delivered on behalf of Toyota Gibraltar Stockholdings (TGS) for the European Bank for Reconstruction and Development (EBRD), the Advanced Safe Driving Training (ASDT) programme held in Warsaw, Poland, brought together drivers from three different countries for a week of intensive development, shared learning, and cultural exchange. Although each participant arrived with different backgrounds and experiences, the common goal was clear — to enhance their understanding of safe, responsible, and mindful driving at an advanced level. What followed was a week that blended technical skill, teamwork, and mindset development in equal measure.

Day 1 – Setting the Scene

The week began with introductions, discussions, and theory-based learning. The first day provided an opportunity to establish the foundation for the days ahead — exploring the principles that underpin advanced driving and the human factors that influence behaviour on the road. For the trainer, it also meant reacclimatising to driving on the opposite side of the road, a useful reminder that awareness and adaptability are essential, even for the most experienced professionals.

 

Day 2 – Vehicle Dynamics and Human Factors

The focus then shifted to the track and on-road environments, where participants explored the physics of vehicle movement, balance, and load transfer. Practical exercises highlighted how subtle inputs in braking, steering, and acceleration can transform vehicle stability and passenger comfort. Equally important was the focus on human factors — understanding how fatigue, attention, and mindset can affect performance and decision-making.

 

Day 3 – Anticipation and Flow

Midweek sessions concentrated on planning, anticipation, and smooth progress. One particularly popular exercise, known informally as the 'no stopping game', encouraged drivers to maintain safe distances and plan ahead to avoid unnecessary stops. The activity brought light-hearted competition into a serious learning environment, reinforcing the link between anticipation and safety — with a coffee or two on the line for the least successful attempt.

 

Day 4 – Learning Across Borders

By the fourth day, the value of an international group became clear. Delegates compared national driving practices and road cultures, discovering interesting differences such as the Latvian approach to signalling on roundabouts. These discussions broadened perspectives and reinforced how collaboration can deepen understanding beyond technical skills alone. The day also underscored the importance of teamwork. Each participant contributed to an open and respectful learning environment, where sharing experiences was as valuable as individual performance.

 

Day 5 – Achievement and Reflection

The final day brought a real sense of accomplishment. Every participant successfully completed and achieved their Advanced Safe Driving Training qualification. Beyond the certificates, what stood out most was the progress made — not just in driving ability, but in awareness, composure, and self-reflection. The closing discussions reflected on the shared journey of the week: the technical insights, the cultural exchange, and the development of a mindset centred on responsibility and awareness.

 

A Broader Perspective

Courses like this serve as a reminder that driving is as much about mindset as it is about skill. The ability to think clearly, remain calm under pressure, and maintain awareness of others defines safe driving at an advanced level. The Advanced Safe Driving Training programme in Poland demonstrated how international collaboration between TGS and EBRD, combined with professional coaching and open dialogue, can raise standards and strengthen a shared commitment to road safety — not just within the training environment, but long after participants return to their home countries.