See what our students have to say about us!
“I completed the recovery level 1 course and as a nervous new Jeeper it was unexpectedly the most enjoyable experience! The instructors are knowledgeable, approachable, encouraging and created a safe and comfortable environment to be able to ask about anything. There was so much great information given in the class and the practical sessions about safety techniques and appropriate equipment you should have and how to use it….that coupled with some real life examples/ experiences they shared was an eye-opener. This course was very valuable for me and I look forward to participating in more courses.“
-Jane
“This past weekend I completed their Recovery 101 Course, and I must say, I learned lots! Shaun and his staff are great, super knowledgeable and keen to share.
The morning was theoretical, understanding why/how some things worked followed by real life examples helped solidify those lessons even further. They also showed us examples of various pieces of recovery equipment, items they use regularly and items that should not be used at all.
The afternoon was outside where we got to practice some of the theory from inside. The name of the game was safety, communication, practice, practice and practice until we (I) felt comfortable with the techniques learned, and they watched everything we did! We pulled, slipped and we winched! We used our own equipment which I felt was important, and if we didn’t have we used theirs. In my case my Kinetic Rope was way too thick for my Jeep, who would have thought? But now I know and why. So a new one is on order with a few suggestions from them.
They were knowledgeable, and just as important approachable and eager to answer questions, now I just gotta figure out my calendar and see what course I can attend with them next!“
-Dennis
“My son & I participated in the Off-road Recovery 101 course on Sunday and thoroughly enjoyed our experience. A ton of valuable information was given, equipment recommendations, real world applicable scenarios and hands-on experience. A key benefit to me was to able to ask any small question without feeling intimidated as a newbie. Shaun, Steve & Drew were all very approachable, non-judgmental and eager to help. I really appreciated that my son had the opportunity to develop these very real life skills as a soon-to-be driver who loves adventuring and off-roading! All participants were great and lots of laughs were had. I look forward to the Off-roading 101 course in May. Thanks to all for a great experience.“
-Jessica
“When it comes to learning about Offroad, Recovery Skills, Safety and Training, look no further.
Shaun and his team are organized and thorough. From classroom work to the practical, keeping the flow to added humour, and seriousness all around, it is definitely the right place to be. I was thoroughly impressed by the coordination between Shaun and his other instructors Steve and Drew and as well the dedication from the other students participating whom I observed throughout the program to be absolutely tremendous. Especially with respect to Recovery Level 1, on 17Mar24 where I noticed how impressive the delivery of information was, for those wanting to know more about this area.
There’s no denying the commitment, skill and enthusiasm. His creativity, presentation and passion for what he does – is beyond apparent. They are kind, caring and above all, non-judgemental. The passion is obvious!
Shaun, I can’t thank you enough for having these very much needed programs available. Keep up the great work.”
-Sandi
“Get a Grip Driving School offered me a comprehensive and engaging off-road course that was every bit worth it! I had a wonderful time learning the intricacies of off-roading, and going out on the trail for the very first time! I would highly recommend this course for anyone looking to get into serious off-roading in southern Ontario.“
-Alex
“I attended the Get A Grip Driving School Level 1 Recovery class. It had been may years since I have had to do any recoveries, and a lot of my knowledge was forgotten. This was a great course. We spent the morning in class covering the theory and basics, as well as the types of equipment. The afternoon was spent in the field at the Minden Off-road park. There we put theory into practice with our own off-road vehicle as well as some of our own equipment (if we had it, if not the instructors has some for us to use). Learning some of the proper techniques that I would never have considered before that improved safety was great. I have to say that the instructors were great. They were very knowledgeable, funny, helpful, and understanding. If the need arises I wouldn’t hesitate to take additional courses from Get a Grip.”
-Chris
“I had an amazing experience taking the off roading course. As a long time Jeeper but first time off roader, I was hesitant about what my Jeep and I could do but through classroom time and time on the trail with Shaun and his staff, I learned so much. Shaun’s knowledge and approach to sharing that knowledge is a perfect combination. Having Sandy riding with me was the icing on the cake of this fantastic experience. Thank you Get A Grip for what you do and how you do it! I would recommend this course to everyone…5 stars aren’t enough.“
-Cathy
“Had a chance to spend the weekend with Shaun and two of his instructors, taking Get a Grip Driving School’s Off Road 101 and Recovery Level 1. Off Road 101 was about 4 hours of classroom instruction in the morning followed by instruction on the trail for about 5 hours. The classroom portion covered driving techniques, vehicle capabilities, safety topics, etc. The instructors gave numerous examples of real world scenarios reinforcing the material.
On the trail Shaun lead the ride in his Jeep and his two instructors rotated between the student’s vehicles. Shaun spotted the student vehicles over obstacles while his instructors talked you through it from your passenger seat. We encountered rocks, mud, water crossings, off camber, etc.
Overall Off Road 101 was well worth it. It gave me the confidence to hit the trails with a local club and have a better feel for what my Bronco and I are capable of.
The next day Recovery Level 1 was only two of us and although we had both used our winches this course gave us a better understanding of capabilities and limitations. Shaun covered kinetic and winch recoveries. My classmate and I had both done kinetic recoveries prior to the class but it was a great refresher on when it could be kinetic and when it should be a controlled winch extraction. We covered the different equipment and safety factors: Maximum Break Strength, Working Load Limit, as well as marking and safety tags. Following the morning classroom instruction we did practice kinetic recoveries and winch rigging with our personal vehicles.
Overall Recovery Level 1 was also well worth it. I am now armed with the knowledge of the capabilities of my Bronco and equipment. Looking forward to Get a Grip Driving School’s next Recovery Level 2.
Shaun, Thanks for the amazing weekend, looking forward to working with you and your team in the future.“
-Casey
