AOFAQ LEVEL 3 CERTIFICATE FOR WORKING AS A CLOSE PROTECTION OPERATIVE WITHIN THE

PRIVATE SECURITY INDUSTRY (RQF)

AoFA Qualifications Hatton, DeVere Venues, Harben House, Tickford St. Newport Pagnell, Bucks MK16 9EY – UK

www.AoFAQualifications.org

QUALIFICATION SPECIFICATION

LEVEL 3 CERTIFICATE FOR WORKING AS A CLOSE PROTECTION OPERATIVE WITHIN THE

PRIVATE SECURITY INDUSTRY (RQF)

Qualification Overview and Objective:

The AoFAQ Level 3 Certificate for Working as a Close Protection Operative within the Private Security Industry (RQF), is designed to meet the training and licensing requirements of the Security Industry Authority (SIA) – which regulates the sector under the terms set out in the Private Security Industry Act 2001. This qualification has been accredited by the regulators Ofqual, Qualification Wales, CCEA and SIA. The qualification has four mandatory units and gives learners the opportunity to do the following:

Fully understand the role and activities of a Close Protection Operative within the Private Security Industry.

Gain a regulated qualification that will then allow them to apply for a license to work as a Door Supervisor directly from the SIA.

Key Facts: Qualification Number: 603/1117/4 SIA Qualification Number: 14CPF01 Credit Value: 17 Assessment Method: Multiple Choice Assessment, Short Answer Questions as well as Practical Assessment Guided Learning Hours: 140 Minimum Contact Hours: 139.5 Total Qualification Time: XX Entry Requirements and Age Restrictions:

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Candidates wishing to register for this course must be 18 years or older. This is stipulated by the SIA for working in the Private Security Sector as well as gaining a license upon completion of the qualification. Language Requirements: It is highly likely that Security Operatives will have to make calls to the emergency services as well as communicate effectively to resolve conflict. As such, candidates are required to communicate effectively using the English and/or Welsh Language. The Centre must take responsibility to pre-screen candidates and ensure there comprehension of the English and/or Welsh language meets the required level. All assessments must be carried out in the English and/or Welsh language as appropriate. First Aid requirements: Learners who wish to apply for a Close Protection License direct from the SIA will be required to show they have a valid and recognized First Aid qualification. Learners must show their First Aid qualifications prior to training. If they do not have this requirement, they will need to achieve one before applying for a license. This is in additional to the 140 GLH. The SIA will recognise any of the following first aid courses:

AoFAQ Level 3 Award in First Aid at Work (RQF)

AoFAQ Level 3 Award in First Person on Scene Intermediate (RQF)

Qualification Structure: All units total 17 credits and are within the Mandatory Units that must be taught. Learners must complete all units in order to gain the qualification.

Unit No. Unit Reference

Unit Title RQF Credit

1 K/615/5347 Working as a Close Protection Operative within the Private Security Industry

7

2 R/615/5326 Planning, Preparing and Supporting a Close Protection Operation

9

3 T/615/4623 Conflict Management within the Private Security Industry

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The trainer to learner ratio must be 1 trainer to every 10 learners maximum. Important note: this ratio must not be exceeded during the delivery of practical skills. This is stipulated by the SIA. Delivery Time guidance

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Unit No.

Unit Reference

Unit Title Guided Learning Hours (GLH)

Minimum Contact Time

TQT Assessment Method

Assessment Achievement

1 K/615/5347

Working as a Close Protection Operative within the Private Security Industry

56 hours 56 MCQ

Short Answer Question Paper

Practical Assessment

70%

70%

100%

2 R/615/5326

Planning, Preparing and Supporting a Close Protection Operation

76 hours 76 MCQ

Short Answer Question Paper

Practical Assessment

70%

70%

100%

3 T/615/4623

Conflict Management within the Private Security Industry

8 hours 7.5* MCQ

Role Play

70%

100%

140 hours total

139.50 hours total (min 12 days)

GLH/Minimum Contact Time Guided Learning Hours (GLH) is the suggested number of hours of directed study in order for the learner to complete the unit. The GLH for each unit is shown in the above table. Important Note: GLH does not include, Break/Lunch times, registration of candidates, ID checks or other administrative duties. The SIA has stipulated that each day of teaching should not exceed 8 hours. However, a single day can be extended to 8.5 hours to allow for assessment. Additional Unit Delivery Requirements As part of the delivery of the conflict management component of the qualification, training providers are required to provide practical learning through the use of role-play exercises ensuring each learner is able to acquire the skills required.

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Role play within Training Within the Level 3 Certificate for Working as a Close Protection Operative within the Private Security Industry (RQF) course there is an element of role play. This is practically assessed. Progression for learners Upon successful completion of AoFAQ Level 2 Award for Working as a Door Supervisor within the Private Security Sector (RQF) learners can progress onto one of the following:

AoFAQ Level 3 Award in the Delivery of Conflict Management Training (RQF)

AoFAQ Level 3 Award for Deliverers of Physical Intervention Training within the Private Security Industry (RQF)

Occupational Competence Requirements Trainers/Assessors must have achieved as a minimum:

Level 3 Award in Education and Training (RQF),

PTLLS, CTLLS or DTLLS

Certificate in Education

Post Graduate Certificate in Education

SVQ Level 3 and 4 in Learning and Development Trainers/Assessors must also show occupational expertise, the SIA requires that:

Trainers have 3 years front-line operational experience (relevant to their delivery of training) within the last 10 years.

Undertake and be active in Continuous Professional Development (CPD) in order to keep their occupational expertise up to date. As guidance, a minimum of 30 hours CPD activity each year is required with evidence made available upon an External Quality Assurance visit. Suitable CPD activities include but are not limited to the following:

- Attending relevant training events, conference as seminars - Continuing work experience within their sector - Increasing professional knowledge through home study

Unit Specific Trainer requirements Trainers who deliver Level 3 Certificate for Working as a Close Protection Operative within the Private Security Industry (RQF) must hold the following:

A valid teaching qualification as described above.

Level 3 in The Delivery of Conflict Management as described above

Level 3 for Deliverers of Physical Intervention Training in the Private Security Industry

A current valid certificate that is updated annually from an approved Physical Intervention Skills programme provider that can confirm the trainer’s abilities and skillset.

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Centre Requirements In order to meet the level required to conduct training for this qualification, the centre must ensure provision of the following:

Sufficient Audio Visual equipment and training aids should be available to facilitate learning using varying teaching methods

Learners should be provided with clear and accurate reference books/hand-outs covering the topics included in the qualification

Suitable environment for conducting a practical assessment of the students

Appropriate resources to aid the teaching of Unit 1 Close Protection: searching vehicle and property, reconnaissance and surveillance, paper based and technology utilising route planning, and vehicle incidents

The training venue must meet acceptable health and safety standards and be conducive to learning, with sufficient: Size, floor surfaces, seating, writing surfaces, toilet facilities, ventilation, lighting, heating, access, exits, cleanliness, absence of distracting noise. Insurance Requirements

Centres are responsible for having adequate insurance which must include:

Employers Liability

Public Liability

Professional Indemnity Centres are required to provide this information upon gaining Centre Approval with AoFAQ but must keep their insurance valid and up to date on an annual basis. The cover must also extend to the instructors and the documentation should clearly detail this. Marking and Claiming Certificates Centres must submit the exam, learner assessment portfolio and supporting documents (along with photo ID and candidate signature) to AOFAQ for marking, issuing certificates and to enable submission to SIA for learner licensing. Unit Information: Unit 1: Working as a Close Protection Operative within the Private Security Industry Unit number: K/615/5347 Credit: 7 GLH: 56 TQT: Level: 3 Method of Assessment: Externally set and assessed MCQ paper, minimum 25 questions, 70% achievement required to pass; short answer question/portfolio, minimum 13 questions, 70% achievement required to pass; externally set, internally assessed and externally quality assured practical task, 100% achievement required to pass.

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Learning Outcomes

Assessment Criteria

The learner will

The learner can

1.

Understand the role and responsibilities of the close protection operative

Understand the skills required to create and maintain a secure environment

1.1 Explain the purpose of close protection

1.2 Explain the purpose of close protection training and licensing

1.3 Explain the different roles and responsibilities within a close protection team

1.4 State the professional attributes of an effective close protection operative

1.5 Identify who is likely to require close protection services

1.6 Explain the difference between a client and a principal within the role of close protection

1.7 Explain the importance of communication with principal and others

1.8 Explain the range of equipment available to the close protection operative

1.9 Explain the tasks a close protection operative may undertake whilst working alone

1.10 Explain the difference between a successful and unsuccessful close protection task

1.11 State why Continuous Professional Development (CPD) is necessary for a close protection operative

1.12 Demonstrate a range of skills to create and maintain a secure environment

1.14 Describe the required standards of behaviour of a private security operative

2.

To understand the importance of threat assessment

To understand the importance of risk management

To produce a risk assessment

2.1 State the definition of a threat to the protected person

2.2. State the definition of risk to the protected person

2.3 Explain what is meant by a threat and risk assessment

2.4 State the importance of threat and risk

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management within a close protection context

2.5 Explain the likely threats to a principal within a close protection context

2.6 Explain why it is necessary to conduct threat assessment and risk assessment for the protected person and venues

2.7 State the importance of profiling the protected person to establish the level of threat and associated risk

2.8 Describe the variations between a threat and risk assessment for the protected person and venues

2.9 Identify the variations in threat assessment and risk management when a principal is arriving and leaving a location

2.10 Explain the need for on-going assessment, response and contingency plans

2.11 Describe how close protection operatives gather intelligence for operational purposes within the UK

2.12 Describe how decision making models can be used within a threat and risk assessment process e.g. National Decision Making Module

2.13 Describe the UK’s Threat Level System

2.14 Complete a threat and risk assessment and a record of the findings

3.

To have a basic understanding of surveillance, anti-surveillance and counter-surveillance methods

To demonstrate and explain basic surveillance, anti-surveillance and counter-surveillance techniques

3.1 Explain the purpose of surveillance, anti-surveillance and counter-surveillance

3.2 Describe the range of basic surveillance, anti-surveillance and counter surveillance techniques

3.3 Explain the purpose of counter-surveillance

3.4 Describe the likely sources of unwanted attention e.g. criminals, media, followers, stalkers, fixated persons

3.5 Describe the equipment used in surveillance, its capabilities and limitations

3.6 Demonstrate the use of basic surveillance, anti-surveillance and counter-surveillance techniques to confirm or deny third party activity.

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4.

To explain and demonstrate search procedures within a close protection operation for people, vehicles and buildings

4.1 Explain the reason for the search

4.2 Explain the law in relation to powers of search and control of access

4.3 Explain the procedures for, and implications of, searching buildings, vehicles and people

4.4 Explain the use of technology available to assist in a search

4.5 Explain how to deal with unauthorised / dangerous items

4.6 Explain the process for sanitising and securing a location prior to use

4.7 Explain the methods available to secure a vehicle, building or location

4.8 Explain the importance of post search security

4.9 Demonstrate basic search techniques for people, places and property

5.

To understand the law and legislation within a close protection context

5.1 State the main aims of the Private Security Industry Act 2001

5.2 Identify the main regulatory functions of the Security Industry Authority

5.3 Identify the differences between civil, criminal and common law

5.4 By the end of the session learners will be able to understand and explain the parts of civil, criminal and common law that have an impact on the role of a close protection operative, including, but not limited to:

Data Protection Act – Control and access of confidential information

Corporate Manslaughter and Corporate Homicide Act

Criminal Law Act – Use of Force

Equality Act

Freedom of Information

Health and Safety

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Human Rights Act

Misuse of Drugs Regulation

Regulation of Investigatory Powers Act

Road Traffic Act

Trespass.

Dealing with:

Breach of the Peace

Power to Use Force

Defending Self and Property

Power of Arrest

Harassment

6.

To explain and demonstrate the importance of interpersonal skills within a close protection environment

6.1 State the definition of interpersonal skills

6.2 Explain the need for effective interpersonal skills

6.3 Explain the range of interpersonal skills required of a close protection operative

6.4 Explain the importance of effective communication with principals, clients and others involved in a close protection operation

6.5 Explain the need to be assertive

6.6 Explain the importance of etiquette, dress code and protocol when dealing with different types of clients in a close protection environment

6.7 Demonstrate effective negotiation skills

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7.

To understand the importance of teamwork within a close protection environment

To conduct an operational briefing, handover and de-briefing

7.1 Describe the attributes of an effective team

7.2 Explain the importance of knowing and using other team members' abilities and skills

7.3 Explain the importance of effective communication within the close protection team

7.4 Explain the importance of personal and team preparation

7.5 Explain the importance of Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) within a close protection context

7.6 Explain the structure and purpose of operational briefings and de-briefings using established models e.g. National Decision Making Model

7.7 Conduct a team briefing, handover and debriefing

Unit 2: Planning, Preparing and Supporting a Close Protection Operation Unit number: R/615/5326 Credit: 9 GLH: 76 TQT: Level: 3 Method of Assessment: Method of Assessment: Externally set and assessed MCQ paper, minimum 28 questions, 70% achievement required to pass; short answer question/portfolio, minimum 21 questions, 70% achievement required to pass; externally set, internally assessed and externally quality assured practical task, 100% achievement required to pass

Learning Outcomes

Assessment Criteria

The learner will

The learner can

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1.

To explain the importance of

operational planning

1.1 Explain the purpose of operational planning

1.2 Explain the importance of threat and risk

assessment in operational planning

1.3 Explain the importance of time and resource

management

1.4 Identify the relevant agencies that may need to

be contacted in the course of operational planning

1.5 Develop and implement an operational plan

2.

To explain and demonstrate the purpose of, and carry out, reconnaissance

2.1 Explain the purpose of reconnaissance

2.2 Describe the issues for consideration when conducting a reconnaissance

2.3 Describe the role of a Security Advance Party (SAP)

2.4 Describe the difference between covert, overt, and low profile reconnaissance

2.5 Conduct reconnaissance activity

3.

To explain and demonstrate close protection foot drills

3.1 State the role of a close protection operative on foot

3.2 Identify the roles within a close protection team whilst on foot

3.3 Explain the importance of a flexible approach to protection whilst on foot

3.4 Explain and demonstrate the range of communication techniques to be used whilst on foot

3.5 Explain and demonstrate the purpose of effective body protection for the protected person

3.6 Explain and demonstrate foot evacuation of protected person(s)

4.

To understand the importance of planning, for route selection

4.1 Explain the need for route selection and planning

4.2 Explain the importance of assessing risks associated with route selection and the factors that must be taken into account

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4.3 State the considerations when selecting modes of transport

4.4 Describe the range of technological tools for use in route planning

4.5 Explain the advantages and disadvantages associated with the use of technological tools in route planning

4.6 Explain the advantages and disadvantages associated with the use of non-electric maps in route planning, e.g. Atlas, A-Z

4.7 Explain the factors to be considered when planning and timing a route

4.8 Produce a primary and secondary route plan using paper based and technology based resources

5.

To understand the importance of managing transport arrangements within a close protection environment

5.1 Explain the need for transport security

5.2 Explain why choosing the correct mode of transport is essential within a security context

5.3 Describe the risks associated with all modes of transport

5.4 Explain the need for alternative transport plans

5.5 Describe the variety of transport arrangements and their potential consequences for the close protection operative and team, i.e. chauffeurs, self-drive, people accompanying the protected person

5.6 Explain and demonstrate embus/debus techniques

6.

To explain and demonstrate how to deal with a range of incidents within a close protection environment

6.1 State the difference between an incident and a dilemma

6.2 Explain the range of incidents a close protection operative may encounter

6.3 Explain the importance of effective team communication when dealing with incidents

6.4 Explain the personal responsibility of a close protection operative when dealing with an incident

6.5 Explain and demonstrate how to manage incidents that may arise during close protection operations, including, but not limited to:

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Vehicle incidents

Environmental conditions

Conflict (dealing with conflict within the team, with the protected person

and third parties)

Managing unexpected illness

Attack on protected person (verbal and/or physical)

Loss of property

Breach of security

7.

To explain venue security operations

To explain and demonstrate venue security requirements

7.1 Explain the range of venue-related security operations e.g. private and public

7.2 Explain the relationship between mobile and static close protection operations within venues

7.3 Identify common factors that may influence security procedures at a venue

7.4 Explain the importance of communication within a venue and the most appropriate methods to employ, i.e. radios, public address system

7.5 Explain the use and maintenance of communication equipment and other technology that may be used in venue-based close protection

7.6 State the importance of establishing communication black spots within a venue

7.7 Explain a range of common countermeasures to employ in venue-based close protection operations e.g. patrolling and access control

7.8 Identify a range of in-house resources available to support venue security and the associated benefits

7.9 Describe a range of common contingencies that may be employed in venue-based close protection operations e.g. alarms, safe rooms and evacuation contingencies

7.10 Conduct a room search and identify the measures required to maintain a secure environment post search

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Unit 3: Conflict Management within the Private Security Industry Unit number: T/615/4623 Credit: 1 GLH: 8 TQT: Level: 2 Method of assessment: Externally set and assessed MCQ paper; minimum 20 questions; 70% achievement required to pass

Learning Outcomes

Assessment Criteria

The learner will

The learner can

1. Understand how to recognise, assess and reduce risk in conflict situations

1.1. Identify the most common situations where there is a

risk of escalation into violence

1.2. Demonstrate an understanding of the importance of

positive and constructive communication to avoid

conflict

1.3. Explain employers policy, guidance and procedures

relating to workplace violence

1.4. Identify potential risk of violence towards yourself

and others

1.5. Continually assess the level of threat posed in a

conflict situation

1.6. Identify appropriate measures to reduce or eliminate

the risk.

1.7. Recognise human responses to emotional and

threatening situations

1.8. Identify the conditions and behaviours that trigger or

inhibit an angry response in people

1.9. Choose the most appropriate responses to a situation

involving potential conflict.

1.10. Explain the importance of adopting an appropriate

initial response

1.11. Identify ways in which the expectations of the

customer are managed towards a realistic

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understanding of the situation

1.12. Demonstrate an understanding of the

attitude/behaviour cycle and how to prevent

escalation.

2. Understand how to use communications effectively in difficult and emotive situations and to de-escalate conflict.

2.1. Identify the different ways in which communication

can be blocked

2.2. Demonstrate an understanding of how to overcome

communication blocks by using active listening

techniques

2.3. Recognise the importance of non-verbal

communication when dealing with emotionally

charged situations.

2.4. Identify how to work effectively with a colleague to

de-escalate conflict

2.5. Recognise an escalation in risk and how to manage

anger and aggression

2.6. Recognise the difference between assertion and

aggression

2.7. Choose appropriate assertive behaviour for

confronting unacceptable behaviour

2.8. Recognise the importance of providing exit routes

and space when dealing with an angry person.

3. Understand how to identify simple strategies for resolving conflict and how they can learn from conflict.

3.1. Explain what empathy is and how to use it to

recognise the customer’s view of the situation

3.2. Explain how problem solving can lead to an

acceptable resolution to a problem or issue

3.3. Recognise a win-win approach to dealing with conflict

situations.

3.4. Identify how to seek help and make use of support

services

3.5. Explain the importance of reflecting and learning

from the experience of conflict

3.6. Recognise the importance of sharing good practice

3.7. Recognise the importance of contributing to long

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term solutions to re-occurring problems and issues.

Role Play: Application of Communication Skills and Conflict Management for Security Guarding and Close Protection

Aim:

To develop the knowledge and skills of learners in conflict management, and to facilitate

understanding and confidence through their practical application in scenarios.

This Conflict Management Specification covers a number of security roles performed in a diverse range of environments. Although the environments may contrast there are common elements to most security roles in terms of communication and conflict management and these can be defined in the generic core of learning objectives set out below. Use of practical scenarios to aid learning The training should be further tailored to respond to the specific work place context of the learning group through the inclusion of highly relevant scenarios. For example training being delivered to a group of retail security officers will incorporate scenarios such as confronting a ‘shoplifter’ and calming other persons. 1 The scenarios will enhance skills and confidence in the areas covered through giving learners the opportunity to apply their knowledge and skills. Awarding organisations/bodies will therefore include relevant practical scenario situations in their training syllabus and assessment processes. The scenarios will be facilitated by the trainer within the actual work environment or something similar at or near the training venue. The purpose of such scenarios is to actively engage the learners in problem solving common problems and to respect and draw upon their own experience and ideas. Through effective use of scenarios learners will be able to relate the training directly to their work. It is important that trainers ensure the physical and emotional safety of those participating in and/or affected by scenario based training. Scenarios need to be supervised at all times with clear briefings to prevent physical confrontation and other risks. Scenario Situations The following are examples of scenarios which should be used as role plays and in discussions to reinforce the communication skills and conflict management learning.

Enforcement Scenario: A situation that requires demonstration of positive communication skills when dealing with other persons on day-to-day issues, such as access control and identity checks

Defusing Scenario: A situation that requires demonstration of effective communication skills in calming an emotive situation, such as, an angry customer. Confronting Scenario: A situation that requires non aggressive but firm handling of unacceptable behaviour such as foul language or breach of rules of entry.