Changes to the MiDAS Minibus Driver Awareness Scheme
MiDAS is the Minibus Driver Awareness scheme, overseen 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 safe minibus driving standards and promote the safer operation of minibuses. Currently, there are over 5,000 member organisations throughout the UK.
Since January 2024, drivers wishing to obtain MiDAS Standard Certification are required to undergo an online theory assessment administered by the CTA.
Changes to the MiDAS training
The changes in MiDAS training are summarised below:
Changes to the driver standard training were launched in January 2024, with updates to other training programs to follow.
The new MiDAS course will be for both new drivers and those needing standard refresher training. All existing DAs will have been trained on this system in Autumn 2023. Bespoke refresher training will be developed in the coming months.
The transformed MiDAS Driver Standard Training will be delivered in three parts:
- Learner-led online training through a Learning Management System (LMS);
- One-to-one enhanced practical sessions addressing specific learner needs, delivered by a Driver Assessor; and
- One-to-one driving assessments, also delivered by a Driver Assessor.
Training on the new system will be available in the Autumn, with drop-in sessions for any outstanding questions. The training will be quick and comprehensive. The online support training will be free of charge.
Theory
MiDAS states that moving the theory part of the course online offers greater flexibility, an improved learner experience, and better quality controls. The face-to-face component remains essential through the enhanced practical session and assessment, ensuring tailored learning and effective use of Driver Assessors' expertise. The new online system will also simplify the administrative processes of registration and certification.
One-to-one Enhanced Practical Sessions
The introduction of a one-to-one enhanced practical session addresses specific learner needs, covering examples related to the types of passengers the minibus driver may work with (e.g., school pupils, disabled people). It also addresses any concerns flagged during the online theory element. This session uses demonstrations, walkthroughs, and role-play scenarios tailored to the driver-passenger profiles and geographical area of driving.
The driving assessment process will remain the same, as feedback indicates it is effective. The only change is that DAs will now upload assessment results online.
Online elements
Learners will complete the theory training and assessment online. After completing the theory assessment, learners will undertake their enhanced practical and driving assessment with a DA. The DA will then update the learner’s profile with pass or fail results, allowing successful learners to download their certificates after completing an electronic course evaluation form. Learners are allowed up to three attempts for both the theory assessment and the driving assessment.
Classroom based
For now, Accessible MiDAS will continue with a classroom-based theory session followed by a practical session. There will no longer be hard-copy materials for MiDAS Standard minibus training. All course and supplementary materials will be available online once registered and the course is paid for. Certificates will be accessible after successful course completion and submission of the evaluation form. Drivers must complete the driving assessment within 90 days of successfully completing the online theory assessment.
Online consent checks
Online consent checks will confirm the individual’s identity. Learners must present their licenses for verification during practical training. DAs or training organisations must still perform a physical license check before the individual drives the minibus. An automatic reminder system for refreshers will be part of the new system, which will be an addition for all involved in MiDAS training. Training on the new system will be available in the Autumn, with drop-in sessions for any outstanding questions. The training will be quick and comprehensive. The online support training will be free of charge.