In this post under Driver CPC training, we’ll look at how to become a Driver CPC trainer, analysing the different routes you can take to become a Driver CPC trainer. If you’re already working in the transport industry then it might be easier than you think!
Step 1. Get Qualified
The first thing you need to do is assess your current status, essentially are you qualified and what is your experience?
To become a Driver CPC training instructor, you will need to be suitably qualified within the subject matter you would like to teach and have the relevant skills and experience. So, if you’re a qualified Transport Manager or an experienced HGV driver for example, then it’s likely you already possess most of those skills and experience needed.
The other skill/experience/qualification you’ll need is for the teaching itself. If you don’t have any (or limited) teaching experience, then you should consider taking a ‘train the trainer course’. This is usually a 5-day course which will provide you with all the information and training you’ll need to teach Driver CPC training. There are plenty of train-the-trainer courses out there, just Google it or have a butcher’s at the RHA’s course here. It’s worth noting the RHA is ridiculously expensive but it is a very comprehensive course, I took it myself!
Once you’re qualified then you’re ready to go to the next stage.
Route 1. Apply for a Driver CPC Trainer job
Most training centres will only employ you on a part-time on an ad hoc basis. So essentially you’ll be a freelancer, but you never know there may be some full-time positions out there. I’m not going to teach you to suck eggs when it comes to applying for a job as I’m sure you’re well versed in this area. Just make sure your CV is up-to-date and well-written. I might write a ‘how to write a winning CV and cover letter’ at some point but we’ll save that for another time. A great way to earn a decent living from Driver CPC training is to tout yourself to various centres AND join a Driver CPC Consortium. This brings us to route 2.
Route 2. Join a Driver CPC Consortium
Joining a Driver CPC Consortium is a great way to become a Driver CPC trainer, and run your own business at the same time! It’s a good alternative to setting up a centre in your own right.
A Consortium is a fully-fledged Driver CPC training centre, but they also have the authority to provide trainers with the opportunity to deliver Driver CPC under their umbrella. It’s essentially a cost-effective and hassle-free way to set up your own Driver CPC training business. Many freelancers, in-house transport managers and existing training centres do it this way.
There are a few Driver CPC Consortiums out there but of course, I’m going to promote my own Driver CPC training consortium! The remaining route is to set up your own Driver CPC training centre.
Route 3. Set up a Driver CPC training Centre
DVSA oversee all Driver CPC Training centres. They manage applications and quality assure centres and courses that deliver periodic training in the UK.
First, go to the .gov website. Download and complete the application form. One for the centre and one when applying to register your courses.
As part of the application, you will need to write a scheme of control or SoC. This document should include all the policies and procedures you’ll need to run your centre.
If you need help with this, then feel free to get in touch as I can supply a template Scheme of Control. I can also provide course materials, tools, stationery and support to help you get your training centre approval as quickly and efficiently as possible.
I hope you found my How to Become a Driver CPC Trainer post useful. If you need any advice or further information please do get in touch. We’re here to share the knowledge!
