TAXI drivers are renowned for their sense of direction, ability to small talk and endless local knowledge.
But now cabbies can improve their skills following the launch of a new course in South Yorkshire which includes lessons in customer care, disability awareness and equal opportunities.
Doncaster College, in conjunction with Doncaster Council, will deliver the country's first ever NVQ in Road Passenger transport.
The programme will offer taxi drivers across the borough the chance to access a range of sessions to develop their skills including road safety, customer care and knowledge of local attractions, events and places to go. A total of 25 hackney and private hire vehicle drivers have already taken part in a pilot project this summer and gained a nationally recognised qualification, validated by Edexcel.
The scheme is now being rolled out across Doncaster and is open to all registered taxi drivers working in the borough.
It is hoped the qualification will enhance what is an already valuable service to the tourism industry in the town.
Marian Beecroft, Head of Business Education Systems Training at the college, said: "Doncaster hackney and private hire vehicle drivers are recognised as an integral part of the tourism and road transport system for area and very much act as ambassadors for the town. They are regularly the first point of contact for visitors arriving either at the airport or railway station.
"Taxis are one of the few forms of transport that is door to door and is seen as an important service for business and leisure visitors as well as many disabled persons.
"We are proud to work with Doncaster Council on a project which provides a worthwhile and nationally recognised qualification for drivers. It helps to raise the profile of Doncaster and promote an essential service for the borough."
The course is held over a 20 week period and is delivered in a flexible way to fit in with the drivers other commitments.
The long-term aim is to enrol more of Doncaster's taxi drivers to complete the qualification over the coming year and to raise the profile of the Road Passenger Transport Industry to inspire the recruitment of a new generation into the industry.
Coun Bill Mordue, Doncaster Council's cabinet member for neighbourhood, environment and housing, said: "This scheme is an excellent way to provide quality assurance for regular taxi passengers, and improve the service for visitors to the borough. Drivers taking part in the NVQ course will broaden their local
knowledge and customer care skills, helping them to offer an enhanced service to all customers."
Drivers wanting to enrol on the course should contact Susan Morgan on 01302 553956.
Meanwhile, taxi drivers in Derbyshire are being warned they may have their licence revoked if a high standard of service isn't met. North East Derbyshire Council has revised its licensing policy to give them more power to take action against rogue drivers and operators.
Tougher controls may include a penalty point system where unsatisfactory drivers or operators have their licences revoked.
Coun Colin Robinson, responsible for licensing, said: "We want to ensure taxis are safe and fit for purpose. The council is working with operators to make sure those vehicles are correctly licensed and insured and that complaints are investigated and appropriate action taken."
For more information ring 01246 217228.
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