At a Glance
- Tasks: Control access, conduct searches, and ensure safety at the Parliamentary Estate.
- Company: Join the House of Commons, a key part of the UK's democratic system.
- Benefits: Enjoy 30 days annual leave, flexible working, and a Civil Service pension.
- Other info: Includes a fitness test and offers mentorship from experienced professionals.
- Why this job: Gain hands-on experience in security within a prestigious institution while making a difference.
- Qualifications: Must be 18+, with Level 2 Functional Skills in English and Maths required.
Join to apply for the Security Officer Apprentice (Level 2 Professional Security Operative) role at House of Commons.
Positions: 12
Band / Grade: D1
Salary: £33,761 inclusive of (30%) Shift Disturbance Allowance
Contract Type: Permanent
Working Pattern: Full Time
Location: On-site (Parliamentary Estate)
Leave entitlement: Starting at 30 days per annum, pro-rata
Closing Date: 30th June 2025 at 23:55
Interview Date(s): 11th, 12th and 13th July 2025
The House of Commons is a unique and exciting place to work right at the heart of the UK's thriving democratic system. Behind the scenes, the House of Commons Service is made up of more than 3,000 employees who support and facilitate the smooth day-to-day running of the House. They provide professional services to Members of Parliament, their staff, and the wider parliamentary community.
Staff Benefits:
- 30 days’ annual leave (increasing to 35 days after first full leave year).
- Civil Service pension with an average employer contribution of 27%.
- Access to training and development.
- Flexible working.
- Interest-free season ticket loan and bicycle loan.
Introduction:
We have several Security Officer roles available for individuals who are looking to work in a fast-paced environment where you will deal with a wide range of potential security risks which may arise in a complex and diverse organisation. If you are looking for this type of career path and have a good understanding of security policies and their practical application in the workplace, we would love to hear from you!
The Parliamentary Security Department (PSD) is responsible for physical and personnel security across both Houses of Parliament and provides support to Members and staff when away from the Estate. Its purpose is to keep Parliament safe and open for business.
The Role:
We are seeking to recruit our first cohort of Security Officer apprentices to meet our departmental aim of maintaining a safe, secure and accessible Parliament, free from disruption. Applicants must be at least 18 years of age to be eligible for this role.
The Security Officer Apprentice role at the House of Commons offers a unique opportunity to gain hands-on experience and training within one of the UK's most prestigious institutions. This Level 2 Professional Security Operative structured apprenticeship includes immersive working and development within the Parliamentary Security Department (PSD), where you will be mentored by experienced professionals and exposed to a wide range of security operations. Learners aged 18 must pass Level 2 Functional Skills exams in English and Maths to complete their apprenticeship if they don't already have a grade C/4 or above in these subjects.
As a Security Officer Apprentice, you will be responsible for controlling access to the Parliamentary Estate, conducting searches and screenings of visitors, vehicles, and premises to prevent prohibited items from entering. This role provides an excellent foundation for a career in security, offering valuable insights into security policies and their practical application in a complex and dynamic environment.
Next Steps And Additional Information:
If this opportunity sounds right for you, please submit an application form and provide clear evidence on how you meet the criteria found on the Job Description. Please submit your application via the House of Commons portal. Please only apply once you have read and understood the eligibility requirements. All criteria will be assessed at assessment and interview stage.
Three available days are 11th, 12th and 13th July 2025. Final Interviews will take place on the same day - applicants who are successful through the assessment and fitness test will be interviewed on the same day.
As part of the assessment, we include a Fitness Test which consists of a multi-stage fitness test (also known as bleep test) to level 5.4, our standard required for this role. In addition, you will need to pass a full range of movement test and colour-blind test. As part of the selection process, Security Officer apprentices require a reasonable level of physical fitness to effectively carry out the duties of the job. This includes walking and patrolling the Estate, long periods of standing, lifting bags/trays and walking up stairs.
The salary is inclusive of a 30% Shift Disturbance Allowance of £7,791 per annum. The allowance may change dependent on business needs.
Please ensure that you remove all personal details from your CV and application form. Your application may not be considered if these details are not removed.
Security Officer Apprentice (Level 2 Professional Security Operative) in London employer: HOUSE OF COMMONS
The House of Commons offers a unique and rewarding opportunity for Security Officer Apprentices to work at the heart of the UK's democratic system. With a strong commitment to employee development, you will benefit from extensive training, flexible working arrangements, and an attractive leave entitlement starting at 30 days per annum. Join a diverse and dynamic work culture that prioritises safety and accessibility while providing a solid foundation for your career in security.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Security Officer Apprentice (Level 2 Professional Security Operative) in London
✨Get Familiar with Industry Trends
Stay updated with the latest in security services. Follow industry news and subscribe to newsletters from security bodies — this knowledge can really impress during conversations with potential employers like HOUSE OF COMMONS.
✨Connect with Local Security Networks
Join local security associations or attend community events if you can. Meeting professionals already in the field can open doors that applications sometimes can’t. Their insider tips could direct you to opportunities at places like HOUSE OF COMMONS.
✨Show Off Practical Skills
As you apply for your apprenticeship, think of ways to demonstrate your hands-on skills. Consider volunteering for community security projects or joining relevant workshops. This proactive approach showcases your commitment and could make you stand out while applying.
✨Leverage Our Website for Applications!
Don’t miss out on the chance to apply directly through HOUSE OF COMMONS's website! We often have apprenticeship openings that aren't listed elsewhere, so keep checking in — you might just find the perfect opportunity before anyone else does!
We think you need these skills to ace Security Officer Apprentice (Level 2 Professional Security Operative) in London
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Off Your Security Awareness:When applying for a security-services apprenticeship, it's crucial to highlight any previous experience or training related to safety and security. Did you complete any relevant courses or have a job where you had to be security-conscious? Mention those details to show us you’re serious about the field!
Certifications Matter!:If you've got any security-related certificates, like first aid or health and safety qualifications, make sure they’re front and centre in your CV. These can really set you apart from other candidates in the field of security services, especially for an apprenticeship where we’re looking for potential and dedication.
Why This Role? Let Us Know!:In your cover letter, it’s super important to convey why you want to dive into the security services industry through this apprenticeship at HOUSE OF COMMONS. Talk about what excites you about the role and how it lines up with your career goals. We love to see passion and eagerness to learn!
Be Clear About Availability:Since this is an apprenticeship, we’ll want to know how much time you can dedicate to training and work. In your application, clearly outline your availability. We're all about finding the right fit, so let us know if you have any other commitments or if you're flexible!
How to prepare for a job interview at HOUSE OF COMMONS
✨Show Your Awareness of Security Protocols
Brush up on the latest security protocols and regulations in the industry. We suggest familiarising yourself with terms like risk assessment and emergency response plans, as you might be asked to discuss how you'd handle various scenarios during your interview.
✨Demonstrate Your Communication Skills
In security services, being able to communicate effectively is crucial. During your interview, make sure to highlight your ability to work with a team and handle conflicts calmly. Maybe prepare a couple of examples where you’ve diffused a potentially tense situation.
✨Be Ready for Practical Scenarios
Expect some situational questions where you'll need to think on your feet. The interviewer might pose a scenario, like how you would react to an emergency situation. Practising your responses to these types of questions can really showcase your readiness for the role.
✨Highlight Your Willingness to Learn
Since it's an apprenticeship, showing that you're eager to learn and grow in the field is key. We recommend mentioning specific aspects of security services that excite you, whether it's technology, safety regulations, or customer service. This can really make you stand out as a motivated candidate!
