Private hire drivers hail popular new course for cabbies

Doncaster College has launched what is believed to be the country’s first NVQ in Road Passenger Transport, aimed at taxi drivers

The project gives taxi drivers across the borough the opportunity to access a range of skills development courses including customer care, disability awareness, equal opportunities and local knowledge relating to attractions, events and places to go in Doncaster.

Some 25 hackney and private hire drivers have already taken part in the pilot project this summer, which will gain them a nationally recognised qualification.

The course is held over 20 weeks and is run in conjunction with Doncaster Council in a flexible way to fit in with the drivers’ other commitments. Marian Beecroft, Head of Business Education Systems Training at Doncaster College said: “It helps to raise the profile of Doncaster and promote an essential service for the borough.”

Doncaster Council cabinet member for neighbourhood, environment and housing, Coun Bill Mordue, said: “This scheme is an excellent way to provide quality assurance for regular taxi passengers and improve the service for visitors to the borough.”