BSIA, Skills for Security and SecuriGroup have launched the UK’s first apprenticeship for frontline security professionals.
The programme’s aim is to tackle the outdated image of security and recruit younger people to the industry.
British Security Industry Association (BSIA) estimates that an additional 62,000 security officers are needed to meet the demand in the UK. With the purpose of meeting the demand with high-quality personnel, The Security Officers Services Apprenticeship (Level 5 SVQ Apprenticeship in Providing Security Officer Services) was launched in Scotland in 2021 and has recently seen its first cohort complete the programme. This funded 12-month course is designed to equip security personnel with training, skills and expertise needed to be a modern, professional security officer.
Fire Safety, Mental Health Awareness, Conflict Management, Counter Terrorism and Safeguarding are among areas of focus and learning during the apprenticeship.
BSIA Chief Executive Mike Reddington said: “Recognized qualifications and defined career pathways are a key part in changing perceptions of what a role in the security industry looks like; it is an essential role in keeping people, property and places professionally protected.”
25-year-old Marcia Mackay is among the first students completing the Security Officers Services Apprenticeship. She has been with SecuriGroup for six years and is now working towards further accreditation with the aim of becoming a security manager.
Marcia commented on her apprenticeship as follows: “I think there’s a real opportunity to change the industry. Getting more young people and women in is a big part of that. I think we are compassionate. We listen. To get the best outcomes with the public, that’s what you need. It’s also just a great place to grow life skills. Team working, social engagement, just stepping up and taking responsibility; I’ll be using those skills for the rest of my life,”
Currently there are over 500 students on Skills for Security apprenticeships across the UK on courses that range from Fire Emergency and Security Systems to Security First Line Manager. The apprenticeship programme is anticipated to go live in the rest of the UK in summer 2023.
