A new SFJ Awards[1] Level 4 Certificate for Protective Security Advisers, designed in collaboration with and endorsed by the Protective Security Centre, Government Security, has launched today. Developed to upskill security professionals and attract new talent to the protective security industry, the qualification will be available to both public and private sectors, fostering a baseline competence across the sector and reinforcing the Protective Security Centre’s commitment to strengthening national security capabilities. In addition, this is the first qualification to be endorsed by all three of the government’s National Technical Authorities: National Protective Security Authority (NPSA), UK National Authority for Counter Eavesdropping (NACE) and National Cyber Security Centre (NCSC).
This first of its kind accreditation will be available both as an apprenticeship or as a standalone qualification for people who may not be eligible though an apprenticeship route. Modules available are broad ranging, including the core principles of Protective Security, such as Physical, Personnel, Technical and Cyber.
The Protective Security Centre expects upward of 10,000 security professionals to receive the training over the next five years across. PerpetuityARC Training, Mitie’s specialist training arm, will be the first training partner to deliver the qualification. PerpetuityARC already offers extensive security management training, including the Security Institute’s Security Management suites through to a full MSc in International Security and Risk Management.
The programme is assessed through a combination of written coursework and scenario-based tasks, ensuring that learners are not only absorbing theoretical principles but also applying them in practical, real-world contexts. Upon successful completion, candidates will receive a recognised qualification that demonstrates both competence and credibility in a rapidly growing field.
The Level 4 Certificate for Protective Security Advisers was launched during an event held at Mitie’s headquarters in The Shard, which was attended by an audience of security professionals including Rob Kennedy, Security Adviser from Government Protective Security, who unveiled the qualifications.
Emma Shaw, Managing Director, Intelligence Services, Mitie said:
“The launch of the Level 4 Certificate for Protective Security Advisers is a much-anticipated step towards upskilling the industry, making security a career of choice and strengthening national security capabilities.
“We are proud to be the first to deliver this qualification, and to be providing the training for such an important mission. With options for both industry newcomers and existing security professionals to access the qualification, we hope it will set a high bar across the board.”
A spokesperson for the Protective Security Centre, Government Security Group said:
"The Level 4 Certificate for Protective Security Advisers has been developed as a revolutionary training programme for the security sector. This innovative qualification integrates the main security disciplines, addressing gaps in knowledge, skills, and behaviours to encourage and enable security convergence.
“Endorsed by all three National Technical Authorities, this is the first qualification of its kind. Our collaboration spans across Government, Industry Partners, and Academia, with the shared goal of cultivating the next generation of security leaders."
Professor Simon Hepburn, CEO, The Security Institute said:
“The Level 4 Protective Security Adviser Qualification and Apprenticeship are a timely and vital contribution to the UK's national security landscape. As a member of the core trailblazer group, The Security Institute is proud to have supported its development, which represents a significant step forward in formalising the skills, standards, and professional expectations of those working in protective security roles. In a complex threat environment, a converged approach to security training has been a pressing need for quite some time: with this award, we have set a new benchmark that will help build national capability and trust.”
[1] SFJ is a nationally recognised and regulated awarding organisation across the policing, fire and rescue services, justice, security, local authority and healthcare sectors
Notes to editors
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About PerpetuityARC Training
PerpetuityARC Training, part of Mitie, is a leading provider of specialist security training services, delivering accredited, high-quality training courses across a wide range of security disciplines. With a legacy of excellence and a commitment to advancing professional standards, we empower individuals and organisations to meet the evolving challenges of risk, resilience, and security management.
Our courses – delivered by subject matter experts –span key areas including counter-terrorism, protective security, security management, and workplace investigations. We deliver the flagship MSc programme in International Security and Risk Management in partnership with the University of West London, and work closely with other industry-leading bodies such as The Security Institute to deliver accredited programmes. With over 35 years’ experience, PerpetuityARC Training offers quality training for individuals and organisations that are designed to enhance professional development at every career stage. www.perpetuityarc.com
About The Security Institute
The Security Institute is the UK’s largest professional membership body for security professionals, with nearly 5,000 members.
Since 2000 the Institute has been working to promote the highest possible standards of integrity and professional competence in the business of security.
Membership of The Security Institute gives credibility, enhances career prospects, provides a network of excellent contacts, and offers continual professional development and a wide range of networking opportunities. Join us!
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