Course Overview
Our SIA Close Protection Training Course in Derby provides the professional skills, knowledge and qualifications required to work as a licensed Close Protection Operative (CPO) in the UK or abroad.
Close Protection is one of the most respected and demanding roles in the private security industry. This advanced course is designed for individuals committed to working at the highest professional standard, protecting principals in corporate, public and high-risk environments.
Delivered by experienced instructors with extensive frontline backgrounds, the training combines structured classroom learning with specialist practical exercises. Trainees will first complete pre-course eLearning before progressing to 18 days of Close Protection training.
Assessment includes six online multiple-choice exams, practical demonstrations, and operational exercises to ensure full competence across all areas of Close Protection.
Who is this Course For?
- Individuals new to the private security industry
- Security professionals progressing into VIP, corporate or international protection roles
- Former Close Protection Officers whose licence has expired beyond the renewal window and now require a full course to reapply
Entry Requirements:
- Aged 18 or over
- Good command of English (spoken, reading and writing)
- Valid photo identification (passport or driving licence)
- First Aid at Work (FAW) qualification or equivalent with at least 1 year's validity. Don't have one? You will have the option to add this to your course package on booking.
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Course modules
This course requires a valid First Aid at Work (FAW) certificate with at least 1 year’s validity.
If you don’t already have one, no problem - you will have the option to add first aid to your security training course booking, which will be completed at the start of your training.
Learners who already hold a valid certificate must provide proof after booking.
No available dates - New dates coming soon
Why train with Monarch?
Our courses are delivered by experienced, frontline professionals, including our own CEOs and senior leadership team, bringing real-world insight directly into the classroom.
We hold our training to the same high standards we expect from our own security teams, so you leave confident, capable, and ready for the job.
Career Opportunities with a Close Protection Licence
Qualified Close Protection Operatives are in demand across corporate, entertainment, government and private sectors. A Close Protection Licence enables work across a broad range of high-level security roles, including:
VIP & Celebrity Protection - safeguarding high-profile individuals in entertainment, media and sports
Executive & Corporate Security - protecting business leaders, executives and corporate teams
Residential Security Teams (RST) - providing ongoing protection for clients & their families at private residences.
Secure Transport & Convoy Operations - ensuring safe movement of clients and valuable assets
Event & Venue Security - managing security for high-profile events, festivals and functions
International Contracts - operating abroad in high-risk or hostile environments
Asset Protection - safeguarding high-value goods and sensitive materials in transit or storage
Duties of a Close Protection Operative
Close Protection Operatives (CPOs) carry significant responsibility for the safety and security of their principals. The role demands professionalism, discretion and the ability to make rapid decisions under pressure. Typical duties include:
Core duties include:
- Risk Assessment & Planning - identifying potential threats and creating security plans to minimise risk
- Travel Security - planning safe travel routes and escorting principals during movements
- Surveillance & Counter-Surveillance - monitoring environments and detecting hostile activity
- Physical Protection - providing close personal security and immediate response in the event of a threat
- Residential Security - protecting principals at their homes, estates, or temporary residences
- Liaison & Coordination - working with other security professionals, emergency services, and venue staff
- Emergency Response - acting decisively in medical, security or evacuation situations
- Discretion & Professionalism - maintaining confidentiality and protecting the principal’s privacy at all times
Frequently Asked Questions
Got questions? We’ve answered the most common queries about the course, booking process, and what to expect on the day - so you can book with confidence.
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Do I need a First Aid qualification to take the course?
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What is blended learning and how does it work?
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Is physical fitness required for the course?
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What qualifications will I receive?
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Is the course recognised for SIA licence applications?
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How is the course assessed?
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What should I wear during the course?
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What happens if I fail an exam or assessment?
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How long does the course last?
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Is this course suitable for people with disabilities?
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What happens if I miss a day of training?
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What documents do I need to bring?
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When will I get my results?
