Driving Instructors Branch of Unite the Union May 2014 | Page 10

Official launch of Driver & Vehicle Standards Agency

The official launch of DVSA took place at the DSA Training Academy at Cardington, Bedfordshire, on 2nd April 2014.

The Secretary of State for Transport Rt. Hon. Stephen Hammond attended and officiated.

After the official cake had been cut and the group photo’s taken the guests were split into groups for a tour of the exhibits. DSA’s exhibits consisted of an example theory test including HPT, and an update of progress in the use of CGI into the HPT test. The new CGI clips are looking much better than the first attempts seen a couple of years ago; it was mentioned that they are going to introduce this into live testing later this year or early next.

All the other exhibits were what formally VOSA carried out. These were very interesting as although many consider they know the work VOSA carry out it is a lot more in depth than you currently imagine.

The exhibits were well put together with knowledgeable people presenting them. Time was given for questions although the presenters know their stuff each group of guests were made up of senior staff from the merging agencies and guests, so there was always an answer from someone.

Lunch was provided and this was far better than any I have received at the Axis Building.

An enjoyable, interesting and informative day was had; it allowed me personally to understand the diverse workings of the new agency.

Left, Stephen Hammond and

Alastair Poeples.

Opposite top, some of the attendees including those from the driver training profession.

Opposite bottom all attendees plus those presenting at the exhibits.