The initial course was used to provide an introduction to the new Certificate of Driver Competence created in response to industry interest in a nationally recognised van driver qualification.
Elements covered were requested by the development group of the Van Excellence course as an expected minimum level of competence from any driver regardless of sector. These include fitness to drive; pre-use vehicle inspections; vehicle loading and safety of loads; rules of the road and the ambassadorial role of the driver.
Speaking about the importance of the course, FTA head of vans Mark Cartwright said: “The response to the Van Excellence Driver Competence course from attendees has been fantastic. Their enthusiasm and praise demonstrates how important professionalising the role of a van driver is to the industry.
“Van fleet operators have called on the FTA to develop a course that is aimed at the development of training and qualifications designed to meet these needs. It is essential to improve the image of the van driver in order to demonstrate a real commitment to operate in a safe, professional, considerate and compliant manner.”
