Securitas partners with Skills for Security to pilot BSIA-approved training programme

Delivered through a customised virtual training portal, the courses enable Securitas employees of all levels of experience to enhance their knowledge of the latest British and European Standards when it comes to the design of electronic security systems (including video surveillance, intruder detection, fire detection and access control).

Initially at least, access to the new courses is being offered to all client-facing employees of Securitas’ Electronic Security and Solutions business units. The individuals involved range from business development managers, system designers and engineers through to technical support and project teams. Support staff will also be given the opportunity to improve their understanding of the industry in due course.

At the centre of the partnership are Arthur Agnew (head of electronic security at Securitas UK) and David Scott (managing director of Skills for Security). Speaking about the launch of the new training courses, Agnew explained: “At Securitas UK, we ensure that our 9,000 members of staff have access to a huge variance of knowledge through our in-house Learning Management System. Adding Skills for Security to our portfolio of training modules strengthens our aim of having the best trained staff in the industry and supports our ambitions for the Electronic Security and Security Solutions business divisions.”

Agnew went on to state: “Continued investment in our people is at the heart of this strategy. Their knowledge of ever-advancing security technology is vitally important to our clients. By ensuring consistent understanding and implementation of the latest security standards across the team, we can help make the world a safer place for our clients.”

Perfect partner

Also commenting on the close collaboration between Skills for Security and Securitas, David Scott observed: “Securitas was the perfect partner for us to trial our new set of electronic security design courses among its specialist staff. Securitas is a British Security Industry Association member company and this type of arrangement is one of the many BSIA membership benefits we’re proud to offer.”

Scott added: “We identified a gap in the market and have worked closely with Arthur and his team to gather valuable feedback and ensure the courses are fit for purpose and ready for a nationwide roll-out. With our full focus on enhancing the skills of individuals resident right across the security industry, Skills for Security is excited that Securitas and its employees are leading the way with this initiative.”

Skills for Security is a wholly-owned subsidiary of the BSIA and the largest UK provider when it comes to the delivery of fire and security-focused training, priding itself in offering flexible and accessible training provision to ensure there are no barriers to learning.

In the last two years, Skills for Security has invested in its infrastructure and staffing to ensure that the highest quality of training is guaranteed. Over 250 apprentices are now enrolled on its apprenticeship programme which is run from centres in Warrington, Birmingham, Oxford and Southport.