Big Changes Coming - Here Are The SIA Course Changes For 2025
If you work in the security industry, you’re probably familiar with how often SIA course changes happen. Well, the Security Industry Authority (SIA) is introducing some major updates starting in April 2025 that will impact anyone renewing their Door Supervisor or Security Guard license.
Let’s break down what’s changing, why, and what you need to do to stay compliant.
Big Changes Coming - Here Are The SIA Course Changes For 2025
Previously, security professionals were required to complete a Top-Up Training course when renewing their licenses. The new Refresher Training will replace the Top-Up Training and include additional modules to ensure security professionals stay up to date with the latest industry standards.
This isn’t just a suggestion—it’s a requirement designed to ensure all security professionals have up-to-date skills. The mandatory refresher training will be available starting April 2025, giving you plenty of time to complete it before the deadline.
What’s in the Refresher Course?
The SIA has updated the training content to focus on essential skills that keep both security professionals and the public safe. Here’s a look at what’s included:
For Door Supervisors (DS):
- Conducting searches correctly and safely
- Physical intervention techniques
- Protecting vulnerable individuals (including awareness of spiking incidents)
- Terror threat awareness
For Security Guards (SG):
- Conducting searches
- Protecting vulnerable individuals
- Terror threat awareness
Another key requirement?
First Aid Certification. Before you can enroll in the refresher training, you must have a valid Emergency First Aid at Work (EFAW) certificate or an equivalent qualification.
If your first aid certification isn’t up to date, you’ll need to renew it before taking the refresher course.
Why Is This Happening?
Security roles come with big responsibilities, and skills can fade over time. The SIA wants to make sure that all security professionals are properly trained to handle today’s challenges. Here’s why this is important:
Staying Up-to-Date: The security industry changes a lot with new laws and rules. The refresher course helps everyone stay on top of these updates and stay compliant.
Skill Maintenance: Just like how we need to practice to stay good at a sport or hobby, security professionals need to regularly refresh their skills to do their jobs well.
Adaptation to New Threats: As new technologies and security threats come up, it’s important for security staff to learn about them so they can respond effectively.
Professional Development: Continuous training helps security personnel improve and can open doors for career growth.
Public Confidence: When security staff are well-trained, it gives people more confidence in their safety and the services they provide.
In 2021 the SIA introduced new rules and regulations due to the tragic Manchester Arena Inquiry, which highlighted the importance of security staff being well-prepared for emergencies, including dealing with traumatic injuries and terror threats.
These changes might feel like extra work, but they’re all about keeping security professionals sharp, confident, and ready to handle real-world challenges. Plus, with updated training, you’ll have the latest skills to protect yourself and those around you.
What do you think about the new SIA refresher training? Let us know in the comments!
