Hello George,
I have been driving automatics, and manuals, daily for close to 50 years; and some would say still learning !
The techniques are different.
Hopefully, the DVSA isn't reading this.
Having lived in the US I did have significant experience of the footbrake version of a handbrake !
But it is a brake intended for parking. Whereas, IMHO, the handbrake is more designed for hill starts.
Even so, I have my own technique in the Alphie .
Unless on a very steep hill, and expecting to wait for a long time, I would hold the van on the throttle.
If you hold it on the brake it will roll back (when you remove your right foot from it.
You can use your left foot on the brake, but that will require some practice.
I would not change to neutral, and definitely not go into park which will complicate things even more.
I would let the engine torque hold the vehicle.
There is, after all, no clutch to burn out.
It does require a gentle driving style and a little practice; but is a smoother equivalent of taking off on a hill in a manual.
When in Park, automatics insert a pin through the gearbox, literally, to lock the transmission.
This is why most automatics 'settle back or forward' when you shift into park.
I have little doubt this technique would not meet with the approval of the DVSA or driving instructors/examiners.
I also expect other Alphie drivers to have other techniques.
Finally, As a newbie to driving autos concentrate on keeping your left foot on the floor.
You do not want to be creating lots of excitement behind you by inadvertently stomping on either brake peddle with your left foot.
Happy Alpharding