Security Officer
The SIA Security Officer Level 2 Qualification is designed for individuals looking to build a professional career in the private security industry and obtain an SIA Security Guard frontline licence. The qualification provides comprehensive training in the key knowledge and skills required to work effectively as a security professional, including security officer duties and responsibilities, conflict management, health and safety, legal requirements, incident management, and professional communication. On successful completion of the qualification, and subject to meeting the SIA's licensing requirements, learners can apply for an SIA Security Officer licence to undertake licensable security activities in accordance with the Private Security Industry Act 2001.
Security Guard Training Overview
4 Days
3 Units
Level 2
Multiple Choice Exams & Practical Assesment
Who is this qualification for?
This qualification is designed for individuals seeking to obtain an SIA Security Officer frontline licence and pursue a professional career as a Security Officer within the private security industry. Successful completion of the qualification enables learners to apply for an SIA licence, subject to meeting the SIA’s licensing requirements, allowing them to undertake relevant licensable security activities.
Course Content
To achieve the qualification learners must achieve 4 credits out of 3 units
Unit 1: Principles of Working in the Private Security Industry
110 Minute Exam – 72 Questions (70% Pass Mark)
- The Legal Aspects
- Health and Safety for Private Security Operatives
- Fire Safety At Work Awareness
- Emergency Procedures
- Communication Skills and Customer Care
- Understanding Terrorist Threats and the Security Officer’s Role in Responding to Threats
Unit 2: Principles of Working as a Security Officer in the Private Security Industry
90 Minute Exam – 60 Questions (70% Pass Mark)
- Role & responsibilities
- Access control
- Personal safety
- Searches, Drugs awareness
- Drugs Awareness
- Recording Incidents and Crime Scene Preservation
- Licensing Law
- Emergency Procedures
- Understand how to patrol designated areas safely
Unit 3: Application of Conflict Management skills in the Private Security Industry
30 Minute Exam – 20 Questions (70% Pass Mark) | Conflict Management Scenario Assessments
- Avoiding Conflict and Reducing Personal Risk
- Effective Communication to De-escalate Conflicts
- Resolving and Learning from Conflicts
- Application of Communication Skills and Conflict Management for Door Supervisors
Eligibility
To be eligible to undertake this training course, candidates must meet the following requirements.
- Candidates must be 18 years of age or older.
- Must be able to meet the identification requirements set by the Security Industry Authority (SIA).
- Must hold a valid Emergency First Aid at Work (EFAW) certificate that meets the requirements of the Health and Safety (First Aid) Regulations 1981.
- All candidates are required to complete a basic English assessment and achieve the required standard.
*If you require EFAW training, we can provide this for an additional charge when booking onto our Security Officer training course.
For further guidance on undertaking our licence-linked qualifications and meeting the requirements for obtaining an SIA licence such as ID requirements, DBS checks etc. please use the Security Industry Authority. Funding may be available for this course. Please get in touch and a member of our team will be happy to assist.
Delivery Structure
Pre-course self study
Reading materials
Complete ACT Awareness & ACT for Security online courses**
- Course Day One – EFAW – Classroom – Full Day*
- Course Day Two – Theory – Classroom – Full Day
- Course Day Three – Theory – Classroom – Full Day
- Course Day Four – Theory – Classroom – Full Day
- Course Day Five – Exams – Classroom – Full Day
*Only need to attend day one if you booked Emergency First Aid at Work with us
**You will only need to complete the ACT Awareness & ACT for Security if you are unable to present evidence of previously completing these modules (Certificate within last 12 months)
Cost
The SIA Security Officer course is £300, including Emergency First Aid at Work.
How to Apply:
Upon successful completion of your Security Officer course with VIRPIO SECURITY, we provide full guidance with your SIA badge application or renewal at no additional cost. Our team will support you through each step of the process, helping you obtain your SIA licence and start or continue your career in the security industry with confidence.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does an SIA licence cost and can VIRPIO SECURITY assist with funding?
The current SIA licence fee is £204, applicable to both new and renewal frontline licences. In certain circumstances, VIRPIO SECURITY may be able to assist with the cost of your SIA licence, depending on your residency status, income, and individual financial circumstances. Please speak to a member of our team to discuss the support and funding options that may be available to you.
I have criminal convictions; can I still apply for an SIA licence?
Yes, you may still be able to apply for an SIA licence if you have a criminal conviction. Eligibility is assessed by the Security Industry Authority (SIA), not VIRPIO SECURITY. The SIA provides a criminal record indicator to help you understand whether your conviction may affect your eligibility. We recommend checking this before applying or speaking to our team for guidance.
How long does my Level 2 Security Guard Qualification last for?
Your Security Officer qualification does not expire after three years. However, your SIA licence is time-limited and must be renewed before it expires if you wish to continue working legally as a Security Officer. To renew your SIA licence, you will need to complete the required Emergency First Aid at Work (EFAW) and Security Officer Refresher Training. VIRPIO SECURITY can support you throughout the refresher training and SIA renewal process, helping you remain compliant and ready to work.
How long does it take to get my SIA licence?
SIA licence processing times can vary depending on your individual circumstances and the checks required. The SIA does not guarantee a specific processing time for each application. VIRPIO SECURITY will guide you through the application process and help ensure your application is completed correctly, helping to minimise unnecessary delays. Once your application has been submitted, the SIA will carry out the necessary checks before making a decision on your licence application.
What if I fail elements of my training?
VIRPIO SECURITY provides one free examination re-sit for eligible funded candidates, subject to meeting the required mock examination threshold and approval by the course trainer. The re-sit date will be arranged and provided by your trainer, and you are required to attend on the scheduled date. If you are unsuccessful on your first re-sit, any further re-sit attempts will be charged at £60 per attempt. Please speak to your course trainer for further information about the re-sit process and eligibility.
Do I have to renew my licence?
Yes. Your SIA licence is valid for three years from the date it is issued. If you wish to continue working as a Security Officer, you must renew your licence before it expires. You can apply to renew your existing licence up to four months before its expiry date. Your renewed licence will normally become active once your current licence expires. The current SIA application fee is £204 and is non-refundable. VIRPIO SECURITY can guide you through the renewal process and provide the required refresher training.
Can I work with VIRPIO SECURITY?
Upon successfully completing your Security Officer training with VIRPIO SECURITY, you will be offered an interview opportunity for suitable security roles within the company. Employment will be subject to the candidate meeting the job requirements, suitability criteria and any relevant SIA licensing requirements. Where a candidate is successful, a suitable position may be offered. VIRPIO SECURITY is committed to supporting learners with their transition from training into employment and helping them develop a successful career in the security industry.
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Security Officer
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