A new professional standard for public safety has arrived with the official launch of the Level 3 Award in Counter-Terrorism Protective Security and Preparedness. Developed by SFJ Awards, this is the first and only qualification to receive formal endorsement from Counter-Terrorism Policing (CTP) and the National Counter Terrorism Security Office (NaCTSO).
The launch comes at a critical juncture for UK businesses. Following the enactment of the Terrorism (Protection of Premises) Act 2025, commonly referred to as Martyn’s Law, organisations across the retail, hospitality, leisure, and transport sectors now face mandatory requirements to enhance their readiness against potential threats.
Bridging the Skills Gap
While the new legislation mandates organisational compliance, experts argue that true resilience starts with individual capability. This Level 3 Award is designed to move businesses beyond “tick-box” compliance by providing staff with a credible, practical foundation in risk assessment and incident planning.
“Protecting people and places is no longer a specialist concern reserved for a small number of roles,” the awarding body stated. “Preparedness has become a professional standard.”
What the Training Entails
The course is specifically tailored for those in growing professional roles, such as facilities managers, security supervisors, and event safety leads. Participants will gain expertise in:
- Analysing UK threat levels and various terrorist attack methodologies.
- Navigating the legal requirements of Martyn’s Law.
- Fostering a proactive security culture within their teams.
- Designing robust preparedness plans and evidence-based risk assessments.
The assessment process mirrors real-world challenges, utilising a mix of written assignments, professional discussions, and examinations to ensure learners can apply their knowledge under pressure.
Expert-Led Development
The qualification is the result of a unique collaboration between national counter-terrorism experts and educational designers. By integrating insights from private security, policing, and various business networks, the curriculum remains aligned with the UK’s evolving threat landscape.
To ensure high standards of delivery, SFJ Awards is providing approved training centres with a comprehensive support suite, including bespoke eLearning modules, detailed lesson plans, and regular updates directly informed by NaCTSO.
A Foundation for Long-Term Resilience
SFJ Awards stressed that while no single course can guarantee total compliance with the 2025 Act, this qualification provides the essential building blocks. Compliance requires a blend of governance, culture, and capability; this new award provides the “informed, practical steps” necessary to achieve that mix.
By upskilling individuals, the programme aims to contribute to a broader “collective preparedness,” strengthening societal resilience and ensuring that those responsible for public spaces can act with confidence and competence.
Snowstorms Incoming: Preparing for Bad Weather in 2026