Mitie pilots virtual accredited training modules with SIA in security industry first

Previously, candidates were required to attend on-site courses. However, with social distancing measures in place, an innovative training solution was required to meet the growing demand for licenced security officers to support the country during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Six Mitie employees took part in the pilot, successfully completing their training and, after passing their assessments, were awarded their SIA licence cards. More than 50 Mitie employees are expected to complete their courses in the coming weeks.

Designed for individuals wanting to take their first step towards a career in the private security industry, the virtual security guarding course consists of 20 hours of virtual training in the form of live tutorials. These are delivered via video conference over a minimum of three days.

During this time, participants cover a number of specialist and management modules, among them Health and Safety, patrolling, searching, access and egress control and avoiding or otherwise defusing conflict. To ensure that the Regulator's standards are met, both SIA and Highfield Qualifications supervisors also make unannounced visits by joining the live tutorials.

At the end of the course, the participants are then required to take three online assessments on invigilated software to test their knowledge and competency. Once the completed assessments are submitted, the online test results can be delivered in just 20 minutes. This is significantly faster than the two-to-three weeks that it normally takes for on-site examinations to be graded.

Focusing on surveillance

Following the success of the licensing-focused training, Mitie will be rolling out a ‘CCTV Level 2’ online course. With many buildings across the country closed due to lockdown, this will ensure security teams are equipped to carry out roles now encompassing the increased use of surveillance.

Jason Towse (pictured), managing director of business services at Mitie, explained: “The Coronavirus pandemic has brought many challenges to our sector, one of which has been unprecedented demand for security officers in key sectors such as retail and healthcare at a time when people are physically unable to attend training. We’re proud to be paving the way with this virtual training, offering people the chance to kick-start their career in security and also support efforts designed to tackle the COVID-19 pandemic. Many thanks are due to our Learning and Development team members for making this happen and I would like to offer congratulations to all of our new colleagues who have successfully completed their accreditation online. We look forward to welcoming many more.”

In response, Ian Todd (CEO at the SIA) stated: “This is a prime example of fantastic partnerships in action. Given Mitie’s passion and support, along with that exhibited by other solution providers, we have been able to pilot a new approach to training in quick time. At the SIA, we are always keen to see innovation in the way that training is delivered, but without losing the integrity of the qualification. The excellent collaboration between the two organisations shows that, despite these uncertain times, we can continue to improve upon and enhance our business practices. We will now fully evaluate the pilot, also taking account of the views of other providers who have taken part. Many thanks to all involved for making this possible.”