MiDAS Driver Training

At Castle Minibus, we are extremely proud to have worked with over 2000 schools, academies, colleges and organisations across the UK delivering MiDAS training. Unfortunately, due to Covid-19, we can no longer deliver this training but we want schools to understand what this training is and why it is important.

Call today to see what we can do for you 01869 253744

Who needs MiDAS training?

Anyone driving a minibus should complete some form of regular training or assessment. Driving a minibus is very different from driving a car, yet many school minibus drivers have never received professional training because they passed their test before January 1997 and have the D1 category on their licence. These drivers may be able to drive your school minibus legally, but it is recommended that they complete the MiDAS training every three years to refresh their knowledge and enhance their skills.

Champions of Minibus Safety

MiDAS driver training is not a licence. Your school minibus drivers also need a D1 driving licence. MiDAS certificates last for four years before they need to be renewed but we recommend more frequent ongoing driver checks and assessments including CODA an online risk assessment, termly licence checks and annual eyesight checks and bi-annual medical checks.

What’s involved in MiDAS?

MiDAS is a nationally recognised scheme and participants are issued with a certificate on passing the assessment. 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.

Training

Usually, MiDAS is delivered in small groups. When booking your training ask about numbers to ensure all attendees have the necessary time and attention. We would recommend a maximum of four candidates per day.

Theory Training

MiDAS involves some classroom training on all aspects of driving a minibus safely.

Walk Around

Getting to know your minibus and what to be aware of before driving. Castle Minibus offer a free app to help complete and manage this task.

Small Theory Test

This will be a test based on the theory training provided

Practical Driving

All MiDAS training should include some practical driving to assess a driver’s skills, a minimum of 30 minutes driving time is recommended. From this assessment, the MiDAS provider can recommend any further training needed.

PASS your MiDAS Training

We wish all drivers completing their MiDAS training the best of luck. Certificates are awarded by the MiDAS provider.

Would you prefer to assess your drivers online?

Learn more about CODA Castle’s online driver assessment

Enquire

Top-up Training

For those who have taken the D1 test, it’s also useful to take MiDAS as top-up training. Many people drive a minibus quite infrequently and MiDAS is ideal for refresher training – particularly when transporting children.

Benefits of MiDAS training

Refresher training for those with a full D1 licence
Assessment of driving skills and knowledge for those with inherited D1 (101)
Nationally recognised scheme to evidence driver training
Certified theory and practical assessments

Talk to Castle Minibus today

We would be delighted to answer any questions you have about what courses and online assessments are available.