This qualification is aimed at learners 18 years and over who are able to undertake the responsibilities of a Close Protection Operative. Due to the nature of the role of a Close Protection Operative, in the course of their work it is likely they will be required to make calls to the emergency services or need to communicate to resolve conflict. It is therefore essential that Close Protection Operatives are able to communicate effectively. All assessment must be conducted in the medium of English and/or Welsh as appropriate. Centres must ensure that learners have sufficient language skills before putting the learners forward for assessment. As a guide, learners should as a minimum have language skills equivalent to the following:

• a B1 level qualification on the Home Office’s list of recognised English tests and qualifications
• an ESOL qualification at (Level 1) on the Ofqual register taken in England, Wales or Northern Ireland
• an ESOL qualification at Scottish Credit and Qualifications Framework level 5 awarded by the Scottish Qualifications Authority (SQA) and taken in Scotland
• Functional Skills Level 1 in English
• SQA Core Skills in Communication at Scottish Credit and Qualifications Framework level 5
• Essential Skills Wales Communication Level 1.

Learners should be able to work at level 2 and above, in addition must be able to meet the training provider set health and physical requirements for the Close Protection practical elements of the course (please discuss with your training provider prior to commencement on this qualification) Learners will also need to hold a minimum of a First Aid at Work (3 day) qualification which has no less than 12 months validity prior to the start date of their Close Protection course. Pre-hospital qualifications are not necessary but are encouraged. All certificates must be provided to the training provider as evidence supporting the pre-requisite requirements of this qualification. It should be advised that when applying for an SIA Licence part of the process includes a criminality check (DBS). It is recommended that learners with concerns should use the Criminal Record Indicator available on the SIA website prior to enrolling for this qualification to ascertain if they are likely to achieve licenced status.