Are you looking to advance your career in the private security industry? Our SIA-recognised Level 3 Close Protection course is designed to equip you with the skills and knowledge needed to operate professionally in the UK and internationally.

The programme runs over 21 days and combines classroom learning with realistic scenario-based training delivered by operational close protection officers. We are proud to offer all Phoenix graduates a guaranteed interview.

We are approved to accept Enhanced Learning Credits (ELCAS) for former and serving members of the armed forces. For more details please visit
this page.

WHY ARE WE THE LEADERS IN CLOSE PROTECTION?

NO PREVIOUS CLOSE PROTECTION EXPERIENCE REQUIRED

ADVANCED & EVASIVE DRIVING (CERTIFIED) FOR CLOSE PROTECTION

FIREARMS (CERTIFIED) & HOSTILE EXTRACTION DRILLS

UNARMED COMBAT (CERTIFIED) TO PROVIDE EFFECTIVE PROTECTION

LEVEL 3 FIRST AID & PAEDIATRIC FIRST AID INCLUDED

OPTIONAL FREC 3 FIRST AID UPGRADE AVAILABLE

accommodation available

CLOSE PROTECTION COURSE TESTIMONIALS

Marc Wicks

Marc Wicks MBE, former Corps Sergeant Major with 32 years of service in the Royal Marines, shares his experience of Phoenix training.

Sumeet

5 out of 5 stars

“It’s the gold standard of close protection”

20 August 2026

Karen Gunning

5 out of 5 stars

“Great experience and learned lots of new skills. Live op is a great way to place everything into a real life scenario.”

23 July 2026

Jake Brown

5 out of 5 stars

“Instructors are very passionate about their role and involvement in the industry and are able to pass on their experience through their teaching”

Trustpilot review · 26 March 2026

Christina J

5 out of 5 stars

“I’ll forever be grateful to the Phoenix team for getting my foundation built for what I hope to be a strong and successful career.”

26 June 2026

Chris Somes

5 out of 5 stars

“It was three weeks of my life that I will never forget.”

26 June 2026

Ottaviano

5 out of 5 stars

“The Phoenix Close Protection Course was great with real-world insights situations. The instructors provided the skills and confidence needed for a career in close protection. Highly recommended!!”

Tee

5 out of 5 stars

“The extra care that is put in by the instructors putting a personal touch to help individuals gain the confidence to do the job”

Christopher

5 out of 5 stars

“A very professionally ran and informative course with amble opportunity to put into practice all the skills taught.”

Shane

5 out of 5 stars

“Great course… The instructors were great and made the course enjoyable whilst teaching and making it easier to understand.”

Close Protection course FAQs

What is close protection training?

Close protection training develops the skills used to protect clients, assess threats, plan movements and respond to changing situations. Phoenix combines classroom learning with practical scenarios and live operations.

Who is the Phoenix Close Protection course for?

The course is suitable for people starting a career in close protection and security professionals who want to develop their skills. Previous close protection experience is not required. Contact our training team to check the entry requirements and discuss any support you need before booking.

How long is the Close Protection course?

The Phoenix Close Protection training programme runs over 21 days, including assessments. Contact our training team for the current course dates and availability.

What does the Close Protection training package include?

The programme covers close protection, threat assessment, surveillance awareness, conflict management and physical intervention, with four live close protection operations. The package also includes certified firearms, evasive and advanced driving, unarmed combat, surveillance and investigation training, as listed in the qualifications section above.

What qualifications will I gain?

On successful completion of the required assessments, the course provides the Level 3 Certificate for Working as a Close Protection Operative within the Private Security Industry. The wider Phoenix package includes the additional qualifications and certified training listed above.

Is first-aid training included?

Yes. Combined Level 3 First Aid at Work and Level 3 Paediatric First Aid training is included in the Phoenix course package. A FREC 3 upgrade is available as an optional extra.

Is accommodation included in the course price?

Accommodation options are available. Ask our training team for the current options, prices and availability for your course dates, and confirm your booking inclusions before reserving a place.

Can I use ELCAS funding?

Phoenix is an ELCAS-approved learning provider and accepts eligible Enhanced Learning Credits from serving and former members of the armed forces. See our ELCAS Close Protection course information and confirm your funding arrangements before booking.

Can organisations book group training?

Contact our training team to discuss group bookings, available course dates and the needs of your organisation. We will confirm the available places and arrangements with you.

Do you offer Close Protection refresher or top-up training?

If you already hold a Close Protection qualification, see our Close Protection upskilling and top-up training page. Contact the training team to confirm the appropriate course for your circumstances.

Does the course guarantee a job?

Phoenix graduates are offered a guaranteed interview. Employment offers depend on meeting Phoenix’s standards and available roles; completing the course does not guarantee a job.

How do I check course dates, prices and book a place?

Use the course dates and offer options on this page, send a training enquiry, or call 0800 1244 626. Our team will confirm current prices, availability, payment options and what is included.

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    Close Protection Course

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