Pain is just Nature’s way of telling you that you’re still alive. Made with Xara Web Designer Well, now is your chance to do so. But make no mistake, the idea may make your mouth water but the reality, however, may not be quite what you expected. The route to becoming one of our club's observers is long and demanding. To become an Observer involves a whole series of attributes that not everyone possesses. Mainly it centres on commitment and the will to succeed. Good intentions alone will not be enough; in addition to commitment and the will to succeed you will need:- • High standard of riding in all conditions • Good communications skills • Ability to adapt to change • Current paid-up membership of EKAM and IAM How Do You Become An Observer? Conceptual Model of the Route to Becoming an EKAM Observer • Pass IAM test • Enhanced Advanced assessment • Speak with the Chief Observer (obtain Observer's pack) and have a Senior Observer Mentor allocated to you. • Attend Observer meetings regularly • Senior Observer Mentor Ride out with Observer and Associate • Attend ITAM • Ride out with Observer Corps • Prepare for written Observer's Test (multiple choice) • Pass written Observer's Test at 70% (minimum pass mark) • Three formal assessment rides with a Senior Observer and Associate • Check run with Chief Observer and Associate • Join Observer Corp as an Observer Practical Theoretical Example • Pass Advanced Test (October) • Prepare for Enhanced Advanced Assessment • Ride outs with others wanting to pass Enhanced Advanced • Pass Enhanced Advanced (May) • Senior Observer Mentor - ride out with him and Associates • Attend Observers' meetings and Observer ride outs • Prepare for, and pass, Observer's written test during this time • Practical ride out with new Associate and Senior Observer x 3 • Check run with Chief Observer (October) • Join Observer Corps as Observer NB. To become an Observer could take approximately one year. Coaching Guidelines To become an efficient Observer you will need the following abilities:- • Know the standard required to pass IAM test • Set an example • Ride at a high level • Have a good knowledge of the Highway Code and Roadcraft • Analyse Associates' riding for pattern e.g. position, bends, overtakes, etc • To select specifics from ride to discuss • Be positive • To criticise constructively and encourage • Communicate, facts, details of observed points • Listen • Answer • Recognise the need to refer • Recognise that we are all fallible Trainee Observer's Commitments:- • An average of two Saturdays per months (March-November) • Observers' meetings - Monthly on 1st Wednesday of the month • Club meetings - third Wednesday each month On a Lighter Note... • Social meetings - barbecue, dinner, treasure hunt etc. which occur 3 or 4 occasions each year (optional but fun) • Occasional written article for Club magazine (Observer Comments) • Be prepared to represent the IAM and EKAM at local events (optional and can also be fun) Any full member who is considering becoming an observer should contact the Chief Observer in the first instance.