The Blue Badge is the British national standard guiding qualification.
Blue Badge Guides are selected, trained and examined uder the auspices of the Institute of Tourist-Guiding. Originating in London, the Blue Badge was awarded by regional Tourist Boards from 1969, so that every guide has the same background of national core knowledge combined with in-depth local knowledge.
Guides are assessed on:
As well as acquiring knowledge, Blue Badge Guides are trained in the selection and presentation of material.
1.
2.
National "Core" knowledge
3.
and in their presentation skills
(i) on site
(ii) on foot and
(iii) on a coach
The Blue Badge has been so successful that English trainers have trained guides all over the world, and the Blue Badge is recognised internationally as a bench mark of excellence.
Blue Badge Guides received an award from the Tourism Society in November 1999
Blue Badge Guides have a wide range of languages (40!), specialities and interests, and can guide on foot, in cars, on coaches, on trains and on boats.
They have a wealth of experience which is respected by discriminating tour operators and travel agents throughout the world.
They take pride in constantly updating their knowledge to enable their visitors to enjoy Britain's immense, unique and varied heritage.
The Work
Blue Badge guides are to be found working in every sphere with visitors, not only from overseas but the domestic market as well.
In London for instance - From the familiar round-London sightseeing coaches to specialist London tours; conducting walks from Southwark to Hampstead, the East End and Docklands to Chelsea; in churches and stately homes; in museums and art galleries - both the British Museum and Spencer House use Blue Badge guides for their 'highlights' tours; in addition lecturing, interpreting, addressing associations and societies, and even after-dinner speaking.....
The majority of Blue Badge guides are self-employed. The London Tourist Board, The Guild of Registered Tourist Guides and The Association of Professional Tourist Guides publish guide registers that are circulated annually to tour operators, ground handlers and other users of guide services. Registered guides may also work through one of the Guide Booking Agencies.
Additional information from the Guild of Registered Tourist Guides and Guide Training (London)