Programme Aim

The aim of the programme at North Connaught College of Further Education, Tubberucrry, Sligo is to provide the learner with the knowledge, skill and competence to work in supervisory security activities for example; retail security, event security, airport security, door supervisor or to progress to further or higher education or training.

Our students will be facilitated to explore security operations with a view to re-skilling/up-skilling and exploring concepts and subject areas that may interest the learner in future programmes or employment.

Students will gain vast practical experience in the areas of:

  • Crime Prevention
  • Conflict Management
  • Supervisory Security Management
  • Business Management

Other areas of study include:

  • Customer Service
  • Team Leadership

Work experience is also a core feature of the Security Operations programme with students spending time in an security setting. This facilitates the enhancement of employability and transversal skills.

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Programme Progression

On completion of this programme learners will have the skills, knowledge and competencies to work independently as a Security Supervisor in a range of private security activities, or to progress to higher education or training.

Entry Requirements

Education: No formal education or qualifications are required although applicants may have participated in primary and secondary education. Applicants will be expected to demonstrate a standard of knowledge, skill and competence equivalent to NFQ Level 5 when accessing a Level 6 programme.

Aptitude: Applicants must have a motivation to learn, an interest in the subject and the ability to acquire the knowledge, skills and competencies set out in the course.

Previous Experience: Applicants must be able to demonstrate a broad range of knowledge, skills and competencies relevant to the course and be able to exercise initiative and independence when carrying out course activities.

Course Content

Title Award Awarding Body
Customer Service (6N0697) QQI
Team Leadership (6N1948) QQI
Business Management (6N4310) QQI
Supervisory Security management (6N1784) QQI
Conflict Management (6N2775) QQI
Crime Prevention (6N1780) QQI
Work Experience (6N1946) QQI

Further Details 

Below is a more detailed description of each of the Components.

Crime Prevention

This programme component aims to equip the learner with the knowledge, skill and competence to undertake effective analysis of crime prevention techniques and implement crime prevention. Research methods of best practice in crime prevention and reduction, to include the use of a variety of principles and practice. Look at procedures and methods in crime prevention and the contribution of the insurance industry. Devise procedures for carrying out an assessment of a range of premises and situations, and strategies for the implementation of crime prevention. Look at strategies and procedures for crime prevention amongst staff and employees, with regard to cash and property movement and with regard to sensitive information.

Conflict Management

This programme component aims to equip the learner with the knowledge, skill and competence required to critically engage with the theory and practice of conflict management in community settings. Examine the role, function and forms of expression of conflict in group and organisational life. Look at methods and strategies for managing conflict problems and different styles of mediation and negotiation in managing conflict. Look at various ways to intervene in conflict situation in group and organisational life. Demonstrate good practice in managing conflict.

Supervisory Security Management

This programme component aims to equip the learner with the knowledge, skill and competence to work as part of the management team in the delivery and management of a security service. Assess the role and requirements of a security supervisor in delivering a security service. Look at the different methods of providing a security service. Assess the security and safety requirements, for a range of clients, in a variety of settings and situations. Look at policies and procedures for the provision of an effective security service in a variety of situations. Examine effective standards of service and how to manage the application of human resource management strategies. Look at the different areas in dealing with staff from recruitment to training to induction programmes.

Business Management

The aim is to provide learners with knowledge and understanding of the role and function of management in the business environment, in addition to developing effective management skills. Explore a range of organisations and investigate the internal environment using a SWOT and the impact of external factors using PEST analysis. Look at the role of management within an organisation. Examine the range of ways and methods of measuring performance within a business. Appraise the role of human resource function and the human resource tools and techniques used to recruit and appraise.

Customer Service

The learner will gain a good understanding of all features of customer service including good first impressions, understanding and responding to customers’ needs.  They will also learn how to deal effectively with customers by improving their listening skills, the importance of positive body language and understanding the significance of working as part of a team.  Evaluate how organisational policies and industry specific quality assurance systems can enhance customer service as well as the benefits of market research and the different types of market research that companies can use.

Team Leadership

Research the elements and stages of team leadership. Look at the different concepts and styles of leadership and management within different environments such as mentoring, coaching. Participate in planning, to include SMART objectives, ongoing monitoring of progress and evaluation. Look at motivation within teams. Demonstrate team leadership and all of the roles which it entails. Negotiate a plan and its stage with team members.

Work Experience

Students will find work placement in a suitable security setting where they will apply their skills including demonstrating the ability to work in a supervisory capacity.  Work-experience classes will prepare the student to apply for this work placement, and future work, by focusing on interview preparation.  Students will assess their skills and qualities to produce a CV and cover letter.  They will investigate their employment sector and identify job openings and future training opportunities.  The placement reinforces the skills learned at North Connaught College and aids the development of employability/transferable skills.  The learning during the placement will be documented, and opportunities and challenges encountered will be reflected upon.