First ever security training centre for the region opens in Gateshead

North East security firms and their apprentices are set to receive a boost as a security training facility opens its doors in Gateshead.

The workshop, based at Access Training on the Team Valley, is the first of its kind in the North East and was designed and kitted out in partnership with a number of regional security firms.

The facility will ensure hundreds of young people get the opportunity to learn security systems hands-on and will help to provide more high-quality security apprentices to firms across the region.

The security industry is experiencing growth and there is high demand for apprentices. Access Training more than doubled its number of apprentices in the last year.

At the workshop, apprentices will learn the skills to design, install, commission and maintain electronic systems inside and outside premises to protect people and properties from risk and danger. This includes CCTV, intruder alarms, fire alarms and access control systems.

The facility was officially opened on Monday March 26 by former Metropolitan Police Commissioner Lord, John Stevens of Kirkwhelpington, who is also chair of Gateshead-based security firm, The Protector Group.

Managing director of Access Training, Malcolm Armstrong said: “We have seen a steady rise in the demand for security apprentices over the last few years and it became clear that having a practical workshop would be advantageous to the companies we work with.

“This new provision is going to improve the quality of the training we can offer the security industry. The technology involved in security systems advances at a pace and being able to provide practical training of these systems on site is essential.

“We would like to thank all the companies who generously donated equipment for the centre.”