Level 4 Certificate for Protective Security Advisers
The SFJ Awards Level 4 Certificate for Protective Security Advisers is a nationally recognised qualification designed for professionals responsible for protecting people, assets, information, and infrastructure.
What You'll Learn
This qualification provides a structured pathway for those working in, or aspiring to work in, protective security roles across government, law enforcement, education, critical infrastructure, and the private sector. The programme combines expert-led teaching, practical exercises, and real-world application to develop professional capability and confidence in protective security planning, implementation, and assurance.
Through a blend of structured teaching, case studies, and workplace application, learners will cover the following modules:
- Crime and Security Science
- Legislation and Governance
- Asset, Threat and Vulnerability
- Security Risk
- Physical Security Standards and Mitigations
- Personnel Security
- People Security
- Personal Security
- Cyber Security
- Technical Security
- Incident Response and Management
- Investigations
- Security as a Business Enabler
- Effective Communication & Reflective Practice for Professional Development
All course content is aligned with national protective security guidance and relevant standards, including the National Protective Security Authority (NPSA) principles.
Course Structure and Delivery Options
Classroom-Based
Virtual (Blended Learning)
Virtual (Blended Learning)
Delivered over three 3-day blocks with approximately six weeks between each, the classroom programme combines intensive in-person learning with guided self-study and workplace-based assignments.
There is also a short post-course period to complete final study and assessment materials, ensuring that learners can consolidate knowledge and demonstrate applied competence.
This modular structure enhances learning retention, encourages workplace application between sessions, and supports professional networking and peer learning.
Virtual (Blended Learning)
Virtual (Blended Learning)
Virtual (Blended Learning)
Delivered through six live 3.5-hour sessions held weekly over consecutive weeks, this option combines interactive online teaching with guided self-study activities both between sessions and following the final session.
Learners engage in practical exercises, case study discussions, and reflection tasks throughout the programme, supported by tutor guidance and access to Oakwood’s distance learning platform.
Distance Learning (Self-Paced)
Executive (One-to-One Tutor-Supported)
Executive (One-to-One Tutor-Supported)
The self-paced distance learning option offers complete flexibility for learners who wish to study at their own pace and in their own time. It is ideal for individuals balancing professional and personal commitments, or for international participants who prefer fully remote learning.
Learners have up to 12 months to complete the programme, which is delivered through Oakwood’s dedicated distance learning platform. This includes:
All assessments are submitted through the online platform and reviewed by Oakwood’s qualified assessors. Learners are also invited to optional live Q&A sessions held periodically throughout the year to support progress and connect with other participants.
Executive (One-to-One Tutor-Supported)
Executive (One-to-One Tutor-Supported)
Executive (One-to-One Tutor-Supported)
The Executive pathway offers a bespoke, one-to-one learning experience for professionals seeking a highly personalised route through the qualification. It combines the flexibility of distance learning with dedicated tutor support to ensure a tailored, outcome-focused experience.
Learners on this route work closely with an assigned senior Oakwood tutor—typically a practitioner with extensive security experience—through weekly or fortnightly sessions via Microsoft Teams.
This pathway is ideal for senior or strategic security professionals who prefer one-to-one development over group-based learning.
Assessment and Certification
Assessment is based on a combination of:
- Written assignments and short answer questions
- Practical workplace-based activities and plans
- Reflective accounts of professional practice
On successful completion, learners receive the SFJ Awards Level 4 Certificate for Protective Security Advisers, a qualification regulated by Ofqual and recognised across the UK protective security community
