Level 3 Counter-Terrorism
Develop the skills to assess risks, strengthen protective security and lead preparedness planning.
Help your organisation turn counter-terrorism awareness into practical action.
This course is designed for managers and leaders responsible for keeping people and premises safe. You’ll develop your understanding of terrorism-related threats, assess vulnerabilities and explore protective measures appropriate to your organisation.
You’ll also complete a terrorism risk assessment and preparedness plan, helping you apply your learning to organisational planning and decision-making.
Delivered by Watchword, this SFJ Awards qualification has been developed in collaboration with the National Counter Terrorism Security Office (NaCTSO) and is aligned with the Terrorism (Protection of Premises) Act 2025, also known as Martyn’s Law.
Course details
| Qualification | Level 3 Award in Counter-Terrorism Protective Security and Preparedness |
| Awarding organisation | SFJ Awards |
| Delivery | Classroom-based, with independent study |
| Duration | Typically five classroom days, plus independent study and assessment |
| Guided learning | 41 hours |
| Total qualification time | 90 hours, including guided learning |
| Assessment | Written assessment and professional discussion |
| Cost | £1,400 + VAT per person |
| Dates and location | To be confirmed |
| Delivered by | Watchword |
Who is this course for?
This course is suitable for people with responsibility for protective security, risk management, incident planning or organisational resilience.
This could include:
Security managers.
Estates and facilities managers.
Safeguarding managers.
Health and safety managers.
Business continuity and risk managers.
Duty managers.
Event and student union managers.
Senior leaders responsible for organisational preparedness.
It is relevant to education providers and organisations operating public-facing premises or events, including hospitality, retail, leisure and entertainment settings.
What will I learn?
You’ll develop the knowledge and skills to:
- Understand the terrorism threat and relevant UK legislation.
- Assess terrorism-related threats, vulnerabilities and organisational risks.
- Identify and apply protective security measures appropriate to your organisation.
- Develop and maintain counter-terrorism preparedness plans.
- Complete a terrorism risk assessment and preparedness plan.
- Produce evidence-based recommendations to strengthen organisational resilience and support preparations for Martyn’s Law.
How will I learn?
The course is typically delivered through five classroom days, supported by independent study and assessment.
There are 41 guided learning hours within a total qualification time of 90 hours. This includes time for learning, preparation and assessment.
Courses are delivered to groups of 8–15 learners.
How will I be assessed?
Assessment includes written work and a professional discussion.
As part of the qualification, you’ll complete a terrorism risk assessment and preparedness plan, demonstrating your ability to assess concerns and recommend appropriate action.
Entry requirements
There are no formal entry requirements. You should be able to study and complete assessments at Level 3.
You do not need to have completed the Level 2 Award before joining this course.
How can this support my organisation?
The course develops the practical skills needed to review vulnerabilities, recommend protective measures and contribute to an effective organisational response.
It can support preparations for Martyn’s Law by helping those with planning responsibilities make informed decisions and develop relevant documentation. Your organisation will still need to assess and meet the requirements that apply to its premises or events.
Looking for staff awareness training?
For colleagues who need to recognise concerns, report them and understand incident procedures, explore the one-day Level 2 Award in Counter-Terrorism Protective Security and Preparedness.
Ready to strengthen your organisation’s preparedness?
Contact us about upcoming dates, locations and availability, or discuss training for colleagues with security and planning responsibilities.
Counter-Terrorism
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