SIA training allows you to earn an SIA badge, which is an essential skill for following a career in the security industry. Job prospects after earning an SIA badge include a Close Protection Officer, Door Supervisor, Security Guard, and a CCTV Operator.

Training with Phoenix allows you to achieve your goals and start a successful career afterwards. This article will guide you through some tips to prepare for starting your SIA training.

Check you meet the main criteria to apply

In order to apply for SIA training, it is important to meet certain requirements to be eligible to start. Not only do you have to be over the age of 18, but you also need to be able to pass an identity check. Phoenix requires you to have the right to work in the UK, and have a licensed-linked qualification with an approved training provider.

You are also required to pass a criminal record check. This check, however, does not automatically rule out individuals who have committed a criminal offence. We take into consideration each personal situation by analysing the severity of the crime, as well as how recent it occurred.

You can even use the SIA’s free criminal record tool to see if you are eligible before paying the fee for training.

Ensure you know which kind of SIA licence you require

There are two available SIA badges that you can obtain with Phoenix. The one you decide to acquire depends on which sector of the security industry you want to pursue a career in.

There are frontline and non-frontline SIA licences. Frontline is anything that is face to face such as door supervisors, and non-frontline is behind the scenes such as running a security company or managing personnel.

Make sure you have appropriate funds

Applying to train for an SIA badge isn’t free, in fact, even if your application isn’t successful you have to pay a fee of £190. However, your licence lasts for 3 years when successfully completed.

This means it’s important to make sure that you have enough money to apply and be prepared to spend it and not be accepted. If you are under 24, there are some government funding options available through the skills funding agency.

Obtain a first aid qualification

In order to become a Door Supervisor or Security Guard, you’ll need to obtain a First Aid qualification that meets the requirements of the HSE. This will also look good to a future employer, as it means you can be useful in situations where vital first aid procedures are needed. The employer also doesn’t need to hire a separate person to be in first aid, or to use time and money to train current employees.

Test out your physical fitness

Having a high level of physical fitness is a real advantage when it comes to SIA training. This is because you will need to be prepared to use your strength and stamina to control potentially dangerous situations where multiple individuals are involved, such as a physical altercation or in combat.

It’s also important to be mentally prepared to undergo SIA training, and if you have any mental health conditions to include in your medical report where relevant. This should include your diagnosis, along with any medication you are taking.

The SIA may require yearly reports from a medical professional, so you should make sure you’re comfortable with providing sensitive information to the SIA.

Applying for an SIA licence with the aim to go onto SIA training is an exciting process. Phoenix offers an extensive SIA program with many career opportunities available.

Our academy of excellence provides high-quality courses to kickstart your journey, and with an excellent reputation, it’s no surprise you get into employment straight after completing your training.

Get in touch with us if you have any questions regarding our SIA training courses.