A key step to achieving value from the Driver CPC training is to plan ahead. Identifying some core objectives will help to ultimately demonstrate Return on Investment (ROI).
Training needs checklist for operators:
Identify what you want the training to achieve:
o What are the organisational/departmental objectives?
o What skills, knowledge or competencies are required to meet the business objectives?
o Do we want to improve efficiency (such as mpg), customer service levels or compliance with regulations?
o Where are the problems and areas of risk that we want to address?
o What skills will be needed in the future?
Identify current capabilities:
o What are the current capabilities of our drivers?
o What issues cause the most discussion or confusion day to day?
o What training do we currently do that could be mapped to DCPC? Induction training; ADR, manual handling etc
o Is there any sector specific training that could be mapped to DCPC?
o Would it benefit traffic clerks, supervisors and managers to attend DCPC sessions?
Identify available options:
o What courses are available to close the training gaps identified?
o Can we use generic materials or do we need to design a bespoke programme?
o Will we conduct training under our own approval or via a consortium?
o If using a training provider, will we book in-company or public courses?
o Will all the training needs have been addressed at the end of the training? If not, when will we address this?
Plan for the delivery of periodic training:
o Consider costs and budget
o Decide the policy on who arranges the training and for when
o Who is going to manage the driver training records and how will we measure our progress?
o What metrics will we use? How will we know if we have achieved our objectives?
o When will we review our management systems to ensure compliance and evaluate return on investment?
Checklist for choosing a third party training provider:
Apart from ensuring the course provider and the course content are approved by the Joint Approval Unit for Periodic Training (JAUPT) there are seven additional questions to ask a prospective training providers. These will help to ensure that you and your drivers get the most from a Driver CPC course
1. Is there a post-course test?
A good quality course should conclude with an informal test or assessment of drivers’ learning so that learning gaps can be identified and fed back to delegates or employers. Any assessment should not be part of the designated seven hours of delivery.
2. Are trainers qualified to teach?
Trainers should possess a recognised qualification in learning to ensure they understand the techniques and psychology of course delivery. The PTLLS course (Preparing to Teach in the Lifelong Learning Sector) is an example basic qualification undertaken by adult education tutors. Have trainers been trained to have an awareness of Dyslexia and similar learning difficulties?
3. Does the provider know the industry?
Putting the course messages in context and using language and examples familiar to drivers will assist their learning. Training providers should demonstrate knowledge and experience in the road freight industry and commercial vehicle operation. Do they hold a Transport Manager CPC, for example?
4. Is the provider experienced and credible?
Training providers should be able to supply customer references, demonstrate example course material and evidence of previous training. Evidence of professional membership will be helpful.
5. Is the syllabus relevant and useful?
Training providers should be able to provide a lesson plan that describes the module(s) to be delivered. Check to ensure the same module is not being delivered on each occasion (which is legally possible but of questionable value) and that the content is relevant to the particular work your drivers do and your expectations as an operator and their employer.
6. Does the course format hold drivers’ attention?
Does the course format vary during the day? Will the format retain drivers’ interest for the full seven hours? A good training provider will use a mix of learning styles such as exercises, workbooks, question sessions and discussion to avoid the monotony of “death by PowerPoint”.
7. Will they get the admin right?
To count towards a Driver Qualification Card all training records must be uploaded correctly to DVSA. Drivers should be asked to provide appropriate identification to confirm who they are and receive a receipt for their training on the day.
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