MiDAS Training
We are providers of the CTA’s Minibus Driver Awareness Scheme
ABILITY Training
MiDAS is the Minibus Driver Awareness Scheme, organised by the Community Transport Association U.K. (CTA) which promotes a nationally recognised standard for the assessment and training of minibus drivers. It is a membership-based scheme that is designed to enhance minibus driving standards and promote the safer operation of minibuses, currently there are over 3,000 member organisations throughout the UK.
At ABILITY, we pride ourselves not only in the delivery of the initial training provided, but also an ongoing commitment to our customers to help them ensure they are fulfilling their duty of care towards their precious cargo. As a Community Transport provider ourselves who else is best placed to train people in the practical skills, and customer benefits our knowledge and training delivers
✓ Enhanced passenger safety
✓ Improved passenger comfort
✓ Increased driver confidence
✓ Meets Governance requirements
✓ Demonstrates duty of care
✓ Reduced stress on minibus drivers
✓ Potential reduction in vehicle running costs
✓ Potential reduction in insurance premiums
✓ A better image for organisations
✓ A better image for minibuses
Do You Need Further Details?
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01327 604123
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Why is it needed?
Driving a minibus is very different from driving a car, yet many minibus drivers have never received professional training. Probably because they passed their test before January 1997 and inherited their D1 licence as part of that test. These drivers may be able to drive your minibus legally, but this is not the same as driving it safely. The organisation has a duty of care to ensure drivers are trained and many insurance companies now insist on them being independently trained and assessed.
The training is completed in a day and consists of theory training with a small test in the morning, a walk-around of the minibus so you understand the checks required before every use, and the afternoon consists of practical driving and training for any improvements.
Who is it aimed at?
MiDAS is applicable to any organisation that operates or uses minibuses, from small voluntary organisations operating a single vehicle, to local authorities operating large fleets of minibuses as well as schools, colleges, universities, and Community Transport organisations.
What do drivers get out of this?
Drivers who successfully complete the MiDAS assessment and training programme will receive a nationally recognised certificate valid for four years, as well as the option of obtaining the comprehensive “MiDAS Driver’s Handbook”. Drivers must attend refresher training (including another on-road assessment) every four years in order to retain their entitlement.
What are the objectives of MiDAS?
That drivers will:
- Be assessed to ensure their driving skills are of an acceptable standard
- Be given help where necessary to improve their minibus driving skills
- Be aware of the legal, practical and safety issues surrounding minibus driving
- Be trained in the safe use of accessible minibuses where necessary
- Receive a nationally recognised qualification
What to expect from your MiDAS Training?
MiDAS training will be delivered by a certified Driver Assessor Trainer. The Trainer will be an experienced driver who undergoes periodic refresher to update on best practice and legislative changes that occur in the industry. Our trainers all regularly drive, and transport passengers so have first hand practical experience in delivering the training and will tailor the course content to meet your needs of your organisation