Launched this month, the new SFJ Awards Level 3 Award in Counter-Terrorism‑ Protective Security and Preparedness has been designed in collaboration with, and endorsed by, Counter Terrorism Policing (CTP) and the National Counter Terrorism Security Office (NaCTSO). Created to upskill security professionals and help organisations to prepare for the upcoming Terrorism (Protection of Premises) Act 2025, known as Martyn’s Law, the qualification helps people build the knowledge and capability needed to enhance organisational readiness and ensure counter-terrorism preparedness for both the public and private sectors.

This pioneering qualification provides a comprehensive framework for counter-terrorism protective security. Through focused modules on counter-terrorism readiness, protective security and risk assessment, the programme supports participants in building robust planning approaches and developing the essential knowledge that will help strengthen organisational and individual readiness ahead of the introduction of Martyn’s Law.

Standalone qualification

The Level 3 Award is available as a standalone qualification and is designed for security professionals responsible for venues, sites and organisations, as well as individuals seeking to deepen their understanding of counter‑terrorism operations. Assessment will include one-to-one professional discussions, written tasks and scenario‑based multiple‑choice exercises to ensure participants can apply theoretical learning in practical, real‑world contexts. Successful candidates will gain a recognised accreditation that strengthens their capability and credibility in an area of growing national importance.

Mitie’s specialist training arm, Perpetuity ARC Training, will be among the first providers to deliver the new qualification, marking a significant step in preparing organisations for Martyn’s Law and supporting the UK’s wider protective security mission. Perpetuity ARC already delivers a broad suite of protective security and risk management programmes, offering a clear development pathway for professionals in the sector. Existing qualifications include the Level 4 Certificate for Protective Security Advisers and the MSc/PGDip in International Security and Risk Management.

Emma Shaw, Managing Director, Intelligence Services, Mitie, said: “The launch of the Level 3 Award in Counter-Terrorism Protective Security and Preparedness marks an important step in upskilling the industry ahead of the implementation of Martyn’s Law. As the national threat landscape continues to evolve, strong counter-terrorism capability is more vital than ever for security professionals. As an industry, we are in a unique position to help protect people and places by supporting qualifications that advance security expertise and contribute to creating safer communities across the UK.”