Hear what our learners say about our Close Protection Course.
Become an SIA Licensed Close Protection Operative
Our SIA approved Level 3 Close Protection course in London gives you the knowledge and practical skills you need to apply for your SIA Close Protection licence and work professionally in high-risk environments. The course runs over 18 intensive days and follows the latest SIA Specifications for Learning and Qualifications for Close Protection Operatives.
Whether you are starting your career or upskilling, the course is built around the demands of modern close protection work across Greater London and beyond. Looking to hire a protection team rather than train? See our London close protection service.
Who is this course for?
- Anyone applying for the SIA Close Protection licence
- Former military, police and emergency services personnel
- Security professionals moving into executive protection
- Event security and private bodyguard operatives
- Anyone serious about a career in protective services
What you will learn
The course covers all mandatory units, with practical, scenario-based learning.
Planning and risk
- Threat and risk assessment: identify and evaluate potential security threats
- Operational planning: prepare, brief and carry out close protection operations
- Relevant legislation: UK law on use of force, privacy and protective services
Practical protection skills
- Walking drills: protective formations and movement in public settings
- Embus and debus procedures: moving clients safely to and from vehicles
- Incident management: responding to hostile or unexpected situations
- Surveillance awareness: counter-surveillance and observation skills
Entry requirements
- You must be 18 years or older
- You must hold a valid Level 3 (RQF/QCF) first aid qualification from a course of at least three days, valid for at least 12 months from your course start date
- You must provide your first aid certificate before training starts
Need the first aid qualification? Our three-day Level 3 Award in First Aid at Work (RQF) meets the length requirement.
Mandatory self-study before the course
Self-study is mandatory for everyone on the 18-day course. Before you attend, you must complete two ACT e-learning modules: ACT Awareness and ACT Security. They are available on the National Counter Terrorism Security Office's learning platform, which you can access here. See our self-study page for more help.
Course dates, venue and fees
Next course
Monday 1st March 2027 to Thursday 18th March 2027 (18 days). Spaces are limited.
Venue
Stockwell Park Community Centre, 21 Aytoun Place, London SW9 0TE. The nearest Tube station is Stockwell (Northern and Victoria lines), about a 10-minute walk away, with Brixton (Victoria line) and Brixton railway station also nearby.
Course fee and payment plan
The course costs £2,600. Three Sixty Security is not VAT registered, so no VAT is added. You can pay in full when you book, or spread the cost with our Close Protection payment plan: instalments of £500 with no interest and no third-party finance, five payments of £500 plus a final payment of £100. The full balance must be cleared before the course start date.
Why choose our Close Protection course in London?
- Expert trainers: qualified professionals with real operational experience
- SIA approved: an approved SIA training provider, listed on the SIA Training Provider Register
- Hands-on learning: realistic training scenarios in urban environments
- Networking: connect with employers, veterans and security professionals
- Convenient location: easy to reach from across Greater London
Already licensed?
Already hold an SIA Close Protection licence? See our SIA (Top up) Refresher Training for Close Protection Operatives.
Book your place
Choose your date above and book online, or call our main line on 020 8050 9506. You can also email info@threesixtysecurity.co.uk or message us on WhatsApp on 07802 648809 (WhatsApp only).
Close Protection Course FAQs
How long is the Close Protection course?
18 days, with a minimum of 194 guided learning hours.
When is the next Close Protection course?
Monday 1st March 2027 to Thursday 18th March 2027, at Stockwell Park Community Centre, 21 Aytoun Place, London SW9 0TE.
How much does the Close Protection course cost?
£2,600. Three Sixty Security is not VAT registered, so no VAT is added.
Can I pay in instalments?
Yes. Our payment plan lets you pay in instalments of £500, with no interest and no third-party finance. The full balance must be cleared before the course start date.
What first aid qualification do I need?
A valid Level 3 (RQF/QCF) first aid qualification from a course of at least three days, valid for at least 12 months from your course start date. You must show the certificate before training starts.
Is there self-study before the course?
Yes. Before you attend you must complete the ACT Awareness and ACT Security e-learning modules on the National Counter Terrorism Security Office's learning platform.
What qualification will I gain?
The Level 3 Certificate for Working as a Close Protection Operative within the Private Security Industry, which you need to apply for an SIA Close Protection licence.