ECT Charity is delighted to announce that it has now moved onto the next generation of MiDAS training. The Minibus Driver Awareness Scheme (MiDAS) training is the nationally-recognised standard for people who need to drive a minibus. Administered by the Community Transport Association (CTA), the training is for individuals and organisations wanting to improve passenger safety and comfort – and build driving skills and confidence behind the wheel. It consists of a theory section and a practical driving session with assessment.
In the new approach, launched by the CTA this year, the old classroom-based theory session is now conducted via an online learning platform. The online session covers all of the content from the original classroom material, including:
The multiple choice test to check understanding at the end is also conducted online.
The practical session remains much the same – a demonstration of walk round checks and vehicle driving, practical driving advice followed by the driving assessment.
“The big idea here is convenience for the learner” said Jay Solanki, Driver Assessor Trainer at ECT Charity. “The new model for MiDAS training means participants can take their theory section at a time and pace convenient for them, fitting around busy lives and schedules. It also means more time can be spent on the practical driver training during the programme.”
Participants looking to study Accessible MiDAS – aimed at drivers who will be working with disabled people and using accessible minibuses – will still need to attend a separate scheduled classroom session in addition to the online theory course and practical driving session.
You can find full details of our MiDAS programme, currently offered at our Ealing depot, here.
