Don't know about before P's training like that but I did a defensive driver training course including skid pan and closed circuit when I was 18(so 1 year after I got my P's) and it was great. being taught to brake hard around corners, how abs works in reality, how to deal with under and oversteer is invaluable. Highly recommend it to any younger drivers.

Did it in Canberra with Rick Bates Driver training not that it'll help much if your a sydney sider.