The SFJ Awards Level 4 Certificate for Protective Security Advisers has been approved as a Higher Technical Qualification (HTQ) in England. This achievement marks an important milestone for the qualification and reinforces its value to learners, employers and the wider protective security sector.
What are Higher Technical Qualifications (HTQs)?
Higher Technical Qualifications are high-quality Level 4 and Level 5 qualifications that have been developed in line with employer-led occupational standards. They are designed to ensure learners develop the technical knowledge, practical skills and professional behaviours required for specific roles.
HTQs carry a recognised mark of quality across the technical education landscape, giving confidence that approved qualifications meet rigorous national criteria and reflect real workforce needs.
What HTQ status means for this qualification
HTQ approval demonstrates that the qualification:
- Meets robust national quality standards
- Is aligned to employer expectations and occupational requirements
- Delivers current, industry-relevant learning
- Supports competence and confidence in real-world professional settings
For both learners and employers, HTQ status provides clear assurance that this qualification is fit for purpose in a demanding and evolving sector.
Benefits for learners
Achieving an HTQ offers a range of tangible benefits for individuals seeking to enter or progress within protective security roles, including:
- Recognised quality – nationally approved and aligned to employer-led standards
- Career-ready skills – focused on the knowledge and competencies required in practice
- Clear progression opportunities – supporting entry into, or advancement within, skilled roles
- Stronger employment outcomes – helping learners access secure, skilled and sustainable careers
Benefits for employers
For employers operating in the protective security sector, HTQs provide a trusted benchmark for workforce development and recruitment. Key advantages include:
- Confidence in capability – assurance that learners meet occupational standards
- Work-ready professionals – individuals equipped with relevant, applied skills
- Consistency in training quality – aligned to national frameworks and expectations
- Support for skills needs – helping address workforce capability gaps in protective security
Supporting the protective security sector
The protective security environment continues to evolve in response to emerging threats and increasing organisational risk. As a result, the demand for skilled Protective Security Advisers is growing.
The HTQ status of our Level 4 Certificate reinforces its role in supporting the development of competent professionals who can assess risk effectively, provide informed advice and contribute to organisational resilience across a range of settings.
Important information
Please note that the recognition of this qualification as a Higher Technical Qualification applies to England only.
For information about Higher Technical Qualifications, visit the Skills England website.
Skills England website
