Driver Training

Swindon Dial A Ride has been providing MiDAS courses for minibus drivers since August 2000.

MiDAS is the Minibus Driver Awareness Scheme, supported by the Community Transport Association, UK (CTA) - which promotes a nationally recognised standard for the assessment and training of minibus drivers.

‘Really enjoyed the course, clear and relevant for our school setting.  Comfortable atmosphere created and lots of opportunity for Q & A”.

 

What are the objectives of  MiDAS for drivers?

• 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 and assessed in the safe use of wheelchair accessible minibuses where necessary
• Receive a certificate that is accepted by other MiDAS members

What are the benefits of MiDAS?

• Enhanced passenger safety
• Improved passenger comfort
• Increased driver confidence
• Reduced stress on minibus drivers
• Potential reduction in vehicle running costs
• A better image for minibuses & for organisations
• Drivers receive a nationally recognised certificate and comprehensive “MiDAS Drivers’ Handbook”
• Refresher training every 4 years (will include a multiple choice question paper)

Why should I have MiDAS  training in my organisation?

• To ensure your drivers’ skills are of an acceptable level
• To help them improve their minibus driving skills
• To make them aware of the legal, practical and safety issues surrounding minibus driving
• To enable them to use wheelchair accessible safety equipment properly 
• Award them with a certificate which is accepted by other MiDAS members throughout the country

Who is it aimed at?

MiDAS is applicable to any organisation operating or using minibuses.  This might be a small organisation running one vehicle, schools, colleges and universities or a local authority who operate using a large fleet of minibuses.

Where does the training take place?

Usually the training is held at our premises on the Hawksworth Trading Estate, Swindon but we can arrange for a group training session to be held at your organisation if that is preferred.

How long will a MiDAS course take?

The MiDAS assessment is split into two sections, a classroom session which includes a multiple choice question paper and an “on road” driving assessment (70 minutes).

“The session fulfilled all my needs and expectations and was a lovely relaxed and enjoyable way to learn”.

There are two options for the classroom training:

Standard Level - 3 hours

Accessible Level - 5½ hours - this includes an extra training module on safety when transporting people with disabilities.

Drivers must be at least 21, have a full driving licence, with minibus driving entitlement and must have at least two years driving experience. 

IMPORTANT—if you are going to be driving a minibus for your employer, and do not have a  category D1 on your driving licence you may not be suitable for this training.  Please contact us to check if you are unsure.

To book or discuss any aspect of MiDAS courses please call us on 01793 617828.

We can also provide Emergency Minibus Evacuation and People Handling & Back Care courses which are particularly relevant if you are transporting people with disabilities.

“Venue worked well, we were well taken care of with spacing and other Covid 19 precautions whilst still being made to feel welcome and comfortable”.