In accordance with the Private Security Industry Act (2001) individuals working in the security industry are required to undergo a structured training programme that results in a recognised qualification.

Individuals applying for a front line SIA (Security Industry Authority) licence must prove that they are properly qualified to carry out their job and if they do not hold the required SIA endorsed qualifications their licence application will be refused.

SIA licence applicants must take the relevant modules for the sector in which they wish to work and these include Security Guarding, Door Supervision, Close Protection, CCTV (Public Space Surveillance), Cash and Valuables in transit and Vehicle Immobilisation.

The SIA does not run the training courses or give qualifications or provide funding, however, they have endorsed awarding organisations who offer the qualifications linked to SIA licensing and approve training providers.

All trainers delivering SIA licence-linked qualifications are required to hold the ‘Preparing to Teach in the Lifelong Learning Sector’ (PTLLS) or a recognised equivalent and/or higher level teaching qualification.