Brian Sims
Editor
Brian Sims
Editor
ASSIST SECURITY Group, the dedicated UK security solutions provider, has announced the launch of its new ‘Close Protection’-focused training course, which is being led by Paul Ephgrave MVO MSyI. This Security Industry Authority (SIA)-qualified programme offers instruction for executive, ultra-high net worth, media and hostile environment protection.
The course provides security professionals with comprehensive, scenario-based training in key London venues. It aims to equip participants with the skills and knowledge required to operate at the highest levels of close protection.
The course is fully residential, with food and accommodation included in the cost. ELCAS and financing options are available, making this “elite training” accessible to a wider range of candidates.
Two formats
This training programme is available in two formats: a 22-day course including First Response Emergency Care (FREC) 3 certification and an 18-day course without FREC 3. Both lead to a Level 3 SIA ‘Close Protection’ qualification.
Training covers a wide range of modules totalling 194 hours and encompasses the principles of close protection, terror threat awareness, physical intervention skills, conflict management and practical close protection operations. The course emphasises real-world application, with the instruction taking place in specific locations purpose-designed to familiarise participants with potential future work environments.
Key features of the course include the following:
*immersive, scenario-based training in actual London venues
*instruction by industry leaders with extensive operational experience
*the opportunity to meet key personalities from the client side of close protection
*post-course interviews with members of Assist Security Group’s risk management team
The course content covers essential skills such as threat and risk assessment, search procedures, venue security, route planning, surveillance and counter-surveillance, driver training and emergency First Aid. The legal aspects of close protection and conflict management are also key components of the curriculum.
The immersive scenario training delivered in central London means that participants will benefit from Assist Security Group’s partnerships with key venues, thereby providing a unique opportunity to train close to environments where they may work in times ahead.
Experience and credentials
Paul Ephgrave (pictured) brings 32 years of Metropolitan Police Service experience to his role as course leader. For 17 years, he held the UK’s highest close protection detail as ‘Her Majesty The Queen’s Police Officer’, leading the team responsible for Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II’s security.
His credentials include serving as director of the National Protection Officer’s training course. At present, he serves as director of security at Claridge’s Hotel in central London. Ephgrave’s transition from public to private sector security provision brings a unique perspective to the training.
Ephgrave's decorated career includes being personally ordained by Queen Elizabeth II as a Member of the Victorian Order (MVO), a dynastic order of knighthood recognising distinguished personal service to the monarch.
Troy Hewitt, CEO of Assist Security Group, said: “We're delighted to offer this exceptional training opportunity under Paul Ephgrave’s leadership. His unrivalled experience in royal protection, combined with our own expertise in security solutions, creates a programme that sets new standards in close protection training. This course will equip security professionals with the skills needed to excel in today’s complex landscape.”
Hewitt added: “Paul’s experience bridges the gap between elite-level protection and commercial security needs. This course will provide participants with insights and skills that are directly applicable to the diverse challenges faced in today’s close protection scenarios.
Meeting market demand
Assist Security Group’s launch of this course comes at a time when th demand for highly skilled close protection operatives is on the rise. The company’s 30 years of experience in securing a wide range of commercial clients across multiple industries positions it to offer this specialised training.
Upcoming course dates are 18 November, 25 November and 16 December and, moving into the early part of 2025, 6 January and 27 January.
This new course aligns with Assist Security Group’s commitment to providing comprehensive security solutions and raising industry standards. It’s designed to appeal to individual security professionals looking to enhance their skills, as well as companies seeking to elevate their security teams’ capabilities.
*For more information e-mail: barry.chapman@assistservicesgroup.co.uk, telephone 020 8543 6670 or visit www.assistsecurity.co.uk
