Qualification purpose

The Level 3 Award in Counter-Terrorism Protective Security and Preparedness qualification, (formally Competent Person in the Workplace), is designed for individuals with responsibility for the safety, security, and operational preparedness of venues, sites, and organisations.

This is the only qualification developed with and endorsed by Counter-Terrorism Policing and the National Counter-Terrorism Security Office (NaCTSO).

This includes professionals working in roles such as: Venue managers and duty managers; Stadium and arena safety officers; Places of Worship; Event safety professionals and supervisors; Security managers and team leaders; Facilities and operations managers; shopping centres; Local authority and public space managers; Individuals responsible for risk assessment and safety planning

This qualification is particularly relevant for organisations that fall within the scope of the Terrorism (Protection of Premises) Act 2025 (Martyn’s Law), including those operating within the Standard Tier and Enhanced Tier requirements.

These organisations will be required to assess counter-terrorism risks and implement appropriate protective security and preparedness measures. This qualification supports individuals responsible for contributing to these processes by developing the knowledge and competence required to assess risks and strengthen organisational preparedness.

It is also suitable for individuals seeking to develop professional competence in protective security and counter-terrorism preparedness as part of their role or career progression.

Course overview

To achieve the qualification, learners will complete six mandatory units covering:

Unit 1 – Introduction to Counter-Terrorism

Unit 2 – Positive Organisational Security Culture

Unit 3 – Counter-Terrorism Protective Security

Unit 4 – Counter-Terrorism Preparedness

Unit 5 – Completing a Counter-Terrorism Risk Assessment and Preparedness Plan

Unit 6 – Completing a Counter-Terrorism Written Recommendation

WHAT DOES A TYPICAL COURSE LOOK LIKE?

This qualification is typically delivered over five days through face-to-face training at one of NGTC’s training centres.*

Delivery combines tutor-led sessions, guided discussions, and practical activities to support the application of knowledge in real operational contexts. Learners will work through each unit in a structured format, building towards the completion of their written assignment and preparation for the professional discussion.

Throughout the course, learners will be supported to apply counter-terrorism principles to real-world environments, including venues, events, and public spaces relevant to their role.

Assessment preparation is embedded across the five days, ensuring learners are fully prepared for the multiple-choice examination, written assignment, and professional discussion.

*Flexible learning options available including evening and weekend delivery – please speak to a member of our team via studentservices@ngtc.co.uk or for block bookings and bespoke delivery models please email partnerships@ngtc.co.uk 

How is this course assessed?

There are three formal assessments required to achieve this qualification. These assessments are designed to ensure learners can apply counter-terrorism protective security principles within a real organisational context.

1. Multiple-Choice Examination
Learners will complete a multiple-choice exam to assess their knowledge and understanding of counter-terrorism threats, protective security principles, and preparedness planning.

2. Written Assignment – Counter-Terrorism Risk Assessment and Preparedness Plan
Learners will complete a structured written assignment where they produce a counter-terrorism risk assessment and preparedness plan relevant to a venue, site, or organisation. This assessment evaluates the learner’s ability to identify risks, assess vulnerabilities, and propose appropriate protective security measures.

3. Professional Discussion
Learners will participate in a professional discussion with an assessor. This provides an opportunity to explain their decisions, demonstrate their understanding of protective security principles, and confirm their competence in applying the knowledge gained throughout the qualification.

All assessments are set by the awarding organisation and are conducted in line with national quality assurance requirements.

Online Learning – NewGen Learning

NGTC will support delivery of this qualification through its virtual learning environment, NewGen Learning.

Learners will have access to structured learning materials, guided activities, and assessment support through the platform.

Further guidance on accessing the platform will be provided once delivery begins.

Available for Funding?

Funding availability is currently being explored.  Register your interest to receive updates on funding opportunities and delivery options.

Eligibility Details

This qualification is suitable for learners aged 18 and over.

There are no formal entry requirements. However, this qualification is intended for individuals with responsibility for safety, security, or operational planning within their organisation.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the Level 3 Award in Counter-Terrorism Protective Security and Preparedness qualification?
This qualification, formally known as Competent Person in the Workplace, has been developed with Counter-Terrorism Policing and the National Counter-Terrorism Security Office (NaCTSO). It provides learners with the knowledge and skills required to assess counter-terrorism risks and develop protective security and preparedness plans within their organisation.

Who should complete this qualification?
This qualification is suitable for individuals responsible for safety, security, or operational planning. This includes venue managers, event safety professionals, security supervisors, facilities managers, and others with responsibility for protecting people, premises, and public spaces.

Does this qualification relate to Martyn’s Law?
Yes. This qualification has been developed to support organisations in strengthening protective security and preparedness ahead of the Terrorism (Protection of Premises) Act 2025, also known as Martyn’s Law. It helps learners understand how to assess risks and implement appropriate protective measures.

Do I need any previous qualifications or experience?
There are no formal entry requirements. However, the qualification is designed for individuals with responsibility for safety, security, or organisational preparedness, or those seeking to develop competence in this area.

How will the qualification be assessed?
The qualification includes a combination of assessment methods, including a multiple-choice examination, a written assignment based on a counter-terrorism risk assessment and preparedness plan, and a professional discussion.

When will NGTC begin delivering this qualification?
From March 2026.  NGTC is currently progressing through the approval process and will be among the first providers to deliver this qualification. Register your interest to be notified when course dates and delivery options become available.

How can this qualification benefit our organisation?
This qualification enables organisations to develop internal competence in counter-terrorism protective security and preparedness. Learners will gain the skills required to identify risks, assess vulnerabilities, and develop preparedness plans, supporting a structured and proactive approach to protecting people, premises, and operations.

Can NGTC deliver this qualification for our staff as a private group?
Yes. NGTC will offer delivery options for employers wishing to enrol multiple staff members. This includes dedicated courses for organisations, allowing training to be aligned with your specific venue, operational environment, and organisational responsibilities. Register your interest and a member of our team will contact you to discuss delivery options.

 

Pick a Course Date

Eligibility Details

This qualification is suitable for learners aged 18 and over.

There are no formal entry requirements. However, this qualification is intended for individuals with responsibility for safety, security, or operational planning within their organisation.

Cost

£1200

Payment required at point of booking.

Similar Course Categories