Qualification number: 603/7564/4

Guided learning hours: 143 hours

Credit value: 17

This intensive two-week program is designed to equip individuals with the necessary skills, understanding, and competencies required for Close Protection Operatives in the Private Security Industry, in line with UK standards, working on the international circuit.

Targeted at those 25 years or older, it prepares participants to handle the duties of a Close Protection Operative, including working with emergency services and managing conflicts. Strong communication skills are critical in this role.

The program requires all assessments to be conducted in English, hence we must ensure participants' proficiency in English prior to acceptance. Applicants must demonstrate a high school level or higher competency and meet specific health and physical requirements for the practical aspects of Units 1 and 2 of the Close Protection course.

The role of a Close Protection Operative, responsible for the safety of VIPs, celebrities, business leaders, and others at risk, demands key skills such as:

Situational Awareness: A CPO must be alert and aware of their surroundings at all times. They need to be able to identify potential threats or dangerous situations before they escalate.

Risk Assessment and Management: The ability to evaluate the level of threat or risk in various situations is crucial. This involves understanding the client's profile, their environment, and potential threats to their safety.

Physical Fitness: CPOs may need to physically intervene in situations or quickly evacuate their client from a dangerous situation, which requires a high level of physical fitness.

Defensive Driving Skills: Often, CPOs are responsible for safely transporting their clients, which requires advanced driving skills, understanding of escape routes, and sometimes evasive driving techniques.

First Aid Skills: CPOs should be trained in advanced first aid to be able to respond effectively to any medical emergencies that the client might experience.

Communication Skills: They must be able to communicate effectively with their clients, colleagues, and emergency services when necessary.

Cultural and political sensitivity: Essential for fostering mutual respect and understanding in a diverse world, promoting peaceful coexistence, and achieving effective and harmonious interactions across different cultural and political landscapes.

Tactical Skills: In some cases, CPOs may need to have knowledge of tactical procedures and be skilled in self-defence, restraint techniques or physical interventions.

Physical intervention skills: These skills are an essential part of the role, but they should be used sparingly and always in accordance with the law which differs from country to country.

Discretion and Confidentiality: CPOs often work with high-profile individuals and are privy to their personal lives. Therefore, they must be discreet and respect their client's privacy.

Planning and Organization: Close protection often involves pre-planning routes, checking venues for security issues, and arranging safe travel. Good organizational skills are vital.

Knowledge of Laws and Regulations: A CPO must understand and comply with the laws pertaining to their work which may differ from country to country. Ignorance could well lead to a spell in jail in a foreign country.

Conflict Resolution: The ability to deescalate potentially volatile situations and resolve conflicts peacefully is essential.

Patience and Demeanour: CPOs may need to spend long periods waiting and watching, and must always maintain a professional demeanour, even in stressful situations.

Teamwork: They may often be required to work as part of a larger security team, so being able to work effectively with others is important.

All participants will be supported throughout the learning process with access to course materials which includes the latest copy of the Definitive Guided to next Generation Close Protection in addition to the newly published:

• Comprehensive guide to understanding the core principles of working as a Close Protection Operative
• Comprehensive guide to understanding the core principles of undertaking the role of a First Responder
• Comprehensive guide to protecting the Principal when on the move.
• Comprehensive guide to understanding self-defence pre and post conflict.
• Comprehensive guide to understanding the core principles of handling a firearm.

Additionally, the QNUK Level 3 First Person on Scene International course can be added for £395, extending the training by 4 days.

For those aiming to work in the UK, obtaining an SIA license is mandatory. Extra modules required for UK operatives as of October 2022 can be added for an additional £350, extending the training by 3½ days.

Free Accommodation:

Villiers Campus is on the banks of the Vaal River close to the Town of Villiers and includes both the Training Centre and Self-Catered Accommodation provided at no additional charge and includes full uncapped WiFi, however you will be responsible for providing your own food and refreshments.