A quick search on the internet will reveal hundreds of providers offering security training courses for SIA licence linked qualifications in cheap prices but how do we know the provider we select is the right one? How do we make sure that our hard earned money does not end up in a scammer’s pocket ?

Well, there are three very simple yet vital points to consider before you book your SIA license training course with any provider.

Business ! Does it exist ?

Remember, anyone can register a website. If you find a website offering security licence training courses at cheap prices then do not just whip out your card and pay for it. If it seems too good to be true, it probably is. I am not saying it is a scam but it could be. How about a little research before we pay?

To avoid disappointment, I recommend you go to the premises and meet with a representative and ensure that it is not a scam. However, if that is not convenient then ask for the company registration number. You can also verify with the awarding body they are claiming to be approved by. You can also check companies house website, by doing so you will know the status of the company (if it exists).

Training ! How many class room hours ? El más importante

All the qualifications leading to an SIA licence have some contact hours which means the time a candidate must spend in the class room. The contact hours could range from 22 to 140.

For example, door supervisor licence training course has 45 guided learning hours and 32.5 contact hours. In this case we should only worry about 32.5 hours because this is the time we must spend in the classroom. A reasonable division will bring the course to 4 full days.

Conclusion : Course being delivered in less than 4 full days…. AVOID

Although, most of the providers abide by the regulations set by the SIA, however, there are still a few that are substandard and the fact becomes apparent when they deliver SIA training courses in less than the stipulated contact hours. Some have been reported to ask candidates to arrive on the exam day and leave the rest to them. This mischievousness has raised suspicions and the regulatory bodies have taken strict actions against a few.

Now, always remember that any provider involved in training malpractice will eventually be struck off and you as a candidate will end up having your SIA licence suspended, which obviously means more expense and further inconvenience.

To find out more about guided learning hours for each SIA licence linked qualification please visit Security Industry Authority’s website.

Qualification ! Is it accredited ?

SIA works with a number of awarding bodies that offer SIA license linked qualifications. To ensure that you obtain the required qualification you must enquire about the centre status of the organization you are looking to book your course with, you must enquire if any endoresed awarding body has approved the provider.

Remember, without the approved qualification you cannot apply for the SIA licence, even if you do, your application will be refused. A list of approved training providers can found here

Awarding Organisations

  • British Institute of Innkeeping (BIIAB)
  • City & Guilds
  • Pearson – Edexcel
  • IQ
  • Laser Learning Awards
  • NOCN
  • HABC

By following these three easy steps, you will not only have peace of mind but also you will have increased your chances by getting trained by a top professional