Despite the fact that National Technical Security Standards were developed over 5 years ago, no real progress had been made on implementing a flexible training structure geared to the needs of individuals and employers.
In response to last year’s survey on training by Security Electronics Magazine, together with additional research into employer requirements and various government initiatives already available, a new apprenticeship pathway in technical security has been developed.
PST, a group training company with extensive experience in security and property services industry, and Milcom Communications, a Registered Training Organisation, have joined forces to offer the new apprenticeship.
“More employers are choosing New apprenticeships as a pathway to employ people because it gives the New Apprentice the opportunity to study and gain a qualification and at the same time perform their work duties effectively,” said Andrew Bryson, General Manager of PST.
“We are delighted to be able to offer a practical training option for employers in the Security Electronics Industry.”
“The only cost to the employers, or employees for the actual training component is enrolment fee. We have put the apprenticeship together based on existing programs. We are using the Telecommunications Cabling requirements, Technical Security Competency Standards and existing sources of funding. This is a pragmatic approach to getting an Apprenticeship program happening now.’
The new Technical Security Industry Apprenticeship lasts for two years. In the first year the employee will complete Certificate II Telecommunications Cabling. In the second year the employee will complete Certificate III Technical Security.
Training is flexible and on the job. Importantly the learning is self-paced. If the employee already has some expertise, then it will take them less time to complete particular learning modules than someone who has never had any experience.
In certain circumstances there may be some training that needs to take place off-site. Milcom has training centres in Rosebury, Granville, Moore Bank and North Ryde. Importantly, unlike TAFE, there is no reason to take a day off a week for the employee to attend the course. Training is tailored to meet the needs of employers and employees.
Under this new apprenticeship employees will receive the basic training to progress within the security industry. When completed Graduates will have achieved Certificate II Telecommunications Cabling and Certificate III Technical Security.
In addition to these formal qualifications, graduates will also have gained a Green Card (allowing them to work on construction sites), an Open Registration (Austel License) and a 2C Security License. Individuals will need to cover the cost of the Austel License registration and the 2C Security License.
The new apprenticeship pathway is cost effective, flexible and practically based.
It is ideal for small to medium-sized employers who would like the advantage of having an apprentice, but do not have sufficient internal management structures and resources.
PST is able to manage the project on behalf of employers at minimal cost. They can assist with staff selection, oversee the training program, handle payroll, workers compensation and annual leave, and any associated reporting. Milcom Communications will provide all training at no cost to employers.
Technical Security training is one of the most important building blocks of the security industry, yet until now there have been few cost-effective choices for employees and employers. Enrolment fees for the Cert II are currently $370 and for the Cert III, $580. For those interested in this program contact PST on (02) 9212 1355. Initial new apprenticeship intake is for NSW only.
