“The Skills for Security conferences programme in 2007 offers an excellent opportunity for networking and access to some of the key Stakeholders in the security business sector. All events boast an exciting line-up of informative speakers, aimed at providing the sector with a varied and broad perspective on the various issues that have a direct impact on employers and their employees across the UK.”
These are the words of David Greer, chief executive at Skills for Security – the skills and standards setting body that is leading the way in raising levels of professionalism among the security sector’s large and diverse workforce.
The conferences David mentions take place on Thursday 8 November at The Kassam Stadium, Oxford, on Wednesday 14 November (at The Waterfront Hall, Belfast) and on Friday 30 November at The Barony Hall, Glasgow. The latter conference, of course, is for dedicated security professionals practising north of the Border.
On 8 November, the Unlocking Skills Potential Conference also plays host to a Gala Luncheon and Exhibition, and will bear witness to the presentation of this year’s Skills for Security National Training Awards. Security Management Today’s Editor Brian Sims was, once again, a member of the Judging Panel.
The programme for the day is hugely impressive, and attendance highly recommended. In terms of the Oxford Conference, the Welcome and Opening Address by David Greer is swiftly followed at 10.15 am by the annual progress report on Skills for Security as a business, to be delivered by Stefan Hay, the organisation’s director of strategic development. Next, Chris Humphries – of City & Guilds – will be speaking, concentrating on delivering skills for a global economy.
In a similar vein, Jaine Clarke – from the Learning and Skills Council – looks at the future for training and why it’s in our own hands, while the Bank of England’s Mike Britnell examines the concept of security failure as a critical business issue. Immediately prior to luncheon, former Port of Dover Police employee and now Skills for Security representative Mike Burke discusses National Occupational Standards.
Post-lunch, Vernon Coaker MP – the Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State for Policing, Security and Community Safety at the Home Office – offers an overview of the licensing and regulation process to date. Coaker regards it as an opportunity for enhanced professionalism.
Jeff Worthy – from JobCentre Plus – is the last speaker of the day. His talk should be most interesting, as it looks at how the industry can unlock the skills potential of the unemployed.
The Skills for Security National Training Awards (sponsored by the National Open College Network) Presentation Ceremony and Closing Address from David Greer then bring the day’s official proceedings to their conclusion.
There will also be a final chance to look at the accompanying Exhibition. This year, ARC Training International, FEDS Training, Maybo, Rutherford Training Consultants, Skills for Justice, Skillsmark, Tavcom Training and The Security Institute (among others) have stands.