New SIA Refresher Courses for 2025

If you work in the UK security industry, the Security Industry Authority (SIA) has introduced changes to licence renewal requirements that could affect your career.

Starting April 1, 2025, all door supervisors and security guards must complete refresher training to renew their SIA licence.

This is part of the SIA's ongoing efforts to ensure security professionals stay up-to-date with the latest safety standards and techniques.

SIA Refresher Course: What Is It?

The new SIA refresher training is a mandatory requirement for certain security professionals to maintain their licences. It's designed to refresh and update the safety-critical skills that door supervisors and security guards need to keep the public safe. The refresher training will cover the latest safety topics, including advanced techniques in conflict management, terror threat awareness, and other essential skills that may have changed since your last qualification.

Starting from October 1, 2024, the new refresher training courses will be available, and they must be completed to renew your SIA licence after April 1, 2025.

Why is the New SIA Training Necessary?

Security challenges and expectations are constantly changing. The SIA has recognised that skills can fade over time, so it wants security professionals to have up-to-date training. The training will focus on spiking awareness, terror threat awareness, and practical skills for handling various situations safely.

SIA Renewal Course: Who Needs It?

From April 1, 2025, the SIA will require door supervisors and security guards to complete refresher training to renew their licence.

Roles affected by this new refresher training include:

• Door Supervisors

• Security Guards

You must complete this refresher training before your renewal application if you're due to renew your licence after April 1, 2025.

Don't wait until the last minute book your SIA refresher training early to stay compliant with the new 2025 requirements. At SIA Refresher Training, we offer accredited courses to help door supervisors and security guards meet the latest standards. Stay professional and ensure your licence renewal by completing your training today!

New SIA Badge: Key Modules in the Refresher Training

The new refresher training will include updated content on topics important for security professionals. Here's an overview of what you can expect in the refresher training:

For Door Supervisors:

• Conducting Searches The latest techniques for practical and legal searches.

• Physical Intervention Updated methods for handling difficult situations safely.

• Protecting Vulnerable People Including specific content on handling spiking incidents.

• Terror Threat Awareness Includes training on recognising and responding to terror threats (ACT/You Can ACT certificate).

For Security Guards:

• Conducting Seaches How to conduct searches safely and lawfully.

• Protecting Vulnerable People Focus on keeping vulnerable people safe in various situations.

• Terror Threat Awareness Similar to door supervisors, security guards will also complete the ACT/You Can ACT training.

Important! You can choose between two options for your refresher training if you're a door supervisor:

Take the door supervisor refresher training and renew your door supervisor licence.
Take the security guard refresher training and switch to a licence if your role changes.

What Happens If You Don't Complete the SIA Refresher Training?

If you don't complete your refresher training in time for your licence renewal, you may face serious consequences, including:

• Rejection of your licence renewal Without proof of refresher training, your SIA licence will not be renewed.

• Potential job loss You may be unable to work in licensed security roles.

• Legal penalties Working without the required training may result in fines.

To avoid these risks, plan and complete your refresher training before your licence is due for renewal.

How Often Do You Need to Complete SIA Refresher Training?

The refresher training must be completed every three years, which aligns with your SIA licence renewal period. However, some training modules, like emergency first aid and physical intervention, may need to be refreshed annually.

Tips for Completing Your SIA Refresher Training Successfully

Here are some tips to help you complete your SIA refresher training:

• Book early Don't leave it until the last minute to complete your training. Book as soon as it becomes available.

• Choose an accredited provider Ensure that the training provider is SIA-approved, so you meet the official requirements.

• Check with your employer Some employers may cover the cost of the training, so make sure to ask.

• Keep a copy of your certificate You'll need proof of completion for your licence renewal.

• Stay informed Stay up-to-date with any changes from the SIA to ensure you're meeting all requirements.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Is refresher training mandatory for all security personnel?

Yes, it's mandatory for all door supervisors and security guards who are renewing their licences after April 1, 2025.

Can I complete my refresher training online?

Yes, online training is available for some roles like CCTV operators. However, physical intervention training must be completed in person.

How much does SIA refresher training cost?

Depending on the training provider, the cost typically ranges from 100 to 300.

Can my employer pay for my refresher training?

Many employers cover the cost of refresher training, so check with your employer to see if they'll cover it.

What happens if I fail the refresher training?

If you fail the refresher training, you must retake it before your licence can be renewed.

Conclusion

The new SIA refresher training for 2025 is essential for maintaining your license and ensuring you remain qualified to work in the security industry. By completing this refresher training, you will stay up-to-date with the latest safety standards, techniques, and regulations, giving you the tools you need to keep the public safe and advance your career.