The Ops Con Close Protection Programme

A selective Close Protection programme delivered in partnership with 242 Group, combining essential theory with practical training in real operational environments, culminating in a final deployment exercise. Entry is by application and interview.

Booking terms and conditions

Overview

The Ops Con Close Protection Programme is a selective training course designed to prepare candidates for entry into the professional security industry, delivered in partnership with 242 Group. £1,999, or £1,799 for Operator Pro members. Accommodation is included for the first 10 learners who need it, first come, first served. Delivered over 18 days, the programme combines essential theory with practical application in Central London, where a significant portion of the UK close protection industry operates. Training is based in Hayes, west London (UB4) and takes up to twelve candidates per intake. This ensures a high level of instruction, individual attention, and a consistently professional training environment. Accommodation is included for the full 18 days for the first 10 learners who need it, first come, first served. You'll tell us on your application whether you need a bed. You're welcome to arrange your own, but we recommend staying with the group: the course runs better when students live and train together. Entry is by application and interview. Places are offered to candidates who demonstrate the mindset, professionalism, and suitability required to meet the standard of the programme and the industry. How it works: apply online and attend an interview. If your interview is successful, you'll sign a confidentiality agreement and be offered a place. Pay your deposit to secure it, with the balance due within 15 days of acceptance. Your joining instructions, including the exact training address, follow once you've paid. Candidates who are not successful at the selection stage will receive a full refund. Upon completion, candidates achieve the SFJ Awards Level 3 Certificate for Close Protection Operatives (610/0738/9), enabling them to apply for the SIA Close Protection licence. Students who pass to the required standard are put forward for work with 242 Group and USGC, subject to demand. Every graduate is put forward for paid work with 242 Group and USGC, so you can earn back your course fee in your first year on licence. After the course you get 12 months of Operator Pro free: invoicing tools, job opportunities and CV support, plus access to The Ops Con network. Funding is available by application for Operator Pro Annual members. Apply for a funded place below. You can also pay in 3 with Klarna. Practical training is conducted across Central London, with exercises taking place in real client environments. This provides direct exposure to the pace, expectations, and operational realities of the London market. The programme includes operational exercises, executive vehicle drills, and scenario-based deployments designed to reflect the demands of working as a Close Protection Operative in a live urban environment. ⸻ First Aid Requirement All participants must hold a valid Level 3 (RQF) First Aid at Work qualification (3-day), or the Level 6 SCQF equivalent, valid for at least 12 months from the course start date. If you do not currently meet this requirement, you may: * Book The Ops Con Academy Level 3 First Aid at Work course * Complete an approved first aid or pre-hospital care qualification through one of our trusted partner providers Proof of certification is required prior to commencement of the programme.