A pilot of virtual accredited training modules is reported by the contractor Mitie Security. The guarding arm of the FM contractor is working with the UK regulator the Security Industry Authority (SIA) and Highfield Qualifications, the Doncaster-based exam awarding body, to provide online access to the training course which is required to become an SIA-badged security guard. Previously, candidates were required to attend on-site courses. Given social distancing measures in place since the Covid-19 lockdown of mid-March, some other training method was required for bringing through badged security officers.
Six Mitie employees took part in the trial, completing their training and, after passing their assessments, were awarded their SIA licenses. Mitie adds that more than 50 employees are expected to complete their courses in coming weeks.
Designed for people wanting to take their first step into a career in the security industry, the virtual guarding course consists of 20 hours of live tutorials, delivered via video conference over a minimum of three days. Covered are specialist and management modules, such as health and safety, patrolling, searching, access and egress control, and avoiding and defusing conflict. To see that the regulator’s standards are met, the SIA and Highfield supervisors also make unannounced ‘visits’ by joining the live tutorials.
After the course the participants take three online assessments on invigilated software to test knowledge and competency. Once submitted, the online test results can be delivered in 20 minutes, far faster than the two to three weeks that it normally takes for on-site exams to be graded. Mitie says it will be rolling out a ‘CCTV Level 2’ online course. Given buildings across the UK closed due to lockdown, this will ensure security teams are equipped to carry out roles now encompassing the increased use of CCTV, the Fm firm adds.
Jason Towse, pictured, Managing Director of Business Services, Mitie, said: “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.
“As the UK’s leading technology-led security business, we’re proud to be paving the way with this virtual training, offering people the chance to kick-start their career in security and supporting the efforts to tackle the COVID-19 pandemic. Thank you to our Learning and Development team for making this happen and congratulations to all our new colleagues that have successfully completed their accreditation online. We look forward to welcoming many more.”
Ian Todd, CEO of the SIA, which itself is working away from the office as its Canary Wharf government office was shuttered in March, said: “This is an example of fantastic partnerships in action. With Mitie’s passion and support, along with other 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, 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 and enhance our business practices. We will now fully evaluate the pilot, including with other providers who have taken part. Thank you to all involved for making this possible.”
