With busy schedules, online education can seem appealing for getting licensed. But when training as an SIA trainer, are there online courses available?
The short answer is no. All Level 3 SIA trainer qualifications must be completed in person through intensive training programs run by approved centers.
However, some online components are incorporated to supplement your learning. Let’s examine why SIA mandates this in-class instruction model and how online resources can enhance your studies.
Why Can’t the Full Course Be Done Online?
There are important reasons why the Security Industry Authority (SIA) requires the Level 3 trainer qualification to be delivered via structured in-person instruction:
- Practical skill development – Hands-on practice is essential for activities like presenting, facilitating discussions, assessing students, providing feedback, etc. These interpersonal skills cannot be learned entirely online.
- Interaction with trainers – You learn from industry experts who can provide guidance and coaching tailored to your progress.
- Peer collaboration – Group work and activities with fellow learners enhance the experience.
- Access to equipment – For instance, practicing surveillance requires working with CCTV setups and monitoring rooms.
- Assessment – Your trainers can closely evaluate your capabilities through direct observation and viva assessments during lessons.
- Security considerations – As a license to train future security staff, in-person identity verification is critical.
While online has benefits like flexibility, the current SIA policy mandates in-classroom delivery to ensure learning outcomes. However, approved training centers increasingly blend online study resources to complement the course curriculum for a rich experience.
Do Courses Offer Online Components?
Many SIA-approved providers like The West Academy incorporate online elements to enhance your learning:
- Pre-course reading and activities – To build your baseline knowledge before training begins.
- Virtual learning environment – For course resources, mock tests, knowledge banks, and forums to connect with peers and trainers.
- Post-course study materials – To help you revise and practice after finishing the in-person sessions.
- Exam prep – Online mock exams and quizzes to build confidence for passing the SIA exam.
- Admin support – Ability to complete admin tasks for your license application online.
- 24/7 accessibility – Learning resources are available around the clock for your convenience.
These online components are ‘blended’ learning that complements and reinforces your core in-classroom training. The combination results in highly effective learning.
What Are The Benefits of In-Person Training?
While online learning has perks like flexibility, in-class instructor training offers unique advantages:
- Being in a controlled environment minimizes distractions and keeps you focused.
- The hands-on sessions provide immersive practice.
- You can learn from the expertise and experience of your trainers.
- Peer collaboration and teamwork enhance the learning dynamic.
- You get your questions answered in real time during lessons.
- Direct feedback and guidance help you refine your skills and knowledge.
- The intensive schedule allows you to gain your license faster than self-paced online courses.
- You feel accountable for attending and fully participating in lessons.
For advanced training like the Level 3 SIA trainer course, in-person guided delivery is truly optimal for skill mastery.
How Long Are In-Classroom Sessions?
The total qualification time for the Level 3 Award for Delivering Training is approximately 65 hours.
At approved training centers like The West Academy, this is spread across:
- 5-10 days of in-class lessons and practical activities
- Pre-course reading and independent study with provided materials
- Post-course revision and exam practice
By blending independent online study with intensive in-class days, you get 65 hours of training curriculum to prepare for your SIA exam and license application.
Compared to pure online courses, these accelerated schedules enable you to get fully qualified within weeks and start work as a trainer sooner.
Ready for In-Person SIA Trainer Training?
Becoming an authority in your field by getting the prestigious SIA trainer certification will give your security career a valuable boost. While online-only courses are not an option currently, the intensive in-classroom learning model has clear advantages for skill development.
Supplemented with online study resources, you get the best of both worlds – flexibility, experiential learning, and collaboration, which are only possible face-to-face. By investing in these focused instructor-led programs, you can fast-track your qualification.
The West Academy offers SIA-approved Level 3 courses on an accelerated 5-10-day schedule.
Don’t miss this opportunity to book the Level 3 SIA Trainer Course today. Contact our friendly course advisors at 02084531417 or email us at info@westacademy.co.uk for start dates, pricing, and more information. We look forward to hearing from you soon!
