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- 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.
- 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.
- Other info: Includes a fitness test and offers mentorship from experienced professionals.
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) employer: HOUSE OF COMMONS
Contact Detail:
HOUSE OF COMMONS Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Security Officer Apprentice (Level 2 Professional Security Operative)
✨Tip Number 1
Familiarise yourself with the security policies and procedures relevant to the House of Commons. Understanding these will not only help you during the interview but also demonstrate your genuine interest in the role.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for the fitness test by incorporating cardiovascular exercises into your routine. The bleep test requires a good level of fitness, so practice running intervals to build your stamina.
✨Tip Number 3
Research the role of the Parliamentary Security Department and its collaboration with other agencies like the Metropolitan Police. This knowledge will show your commitment to understanding the broader context of the job.
✨Tip Number 4
Network with current or former security personnel at the House of Commons if possible. They can provide valuable insights and tips that could give you an edge during the selection process.
We think you need these skills to ace Security Officer Apprentice (Level 2 Professional Security Operative)
Some tips for your application 🫡
Understand the Role: Before applying, make sure you fully understand the responsibilities of a Security Officer Apprentice. Familiarise yourself with the job description and think about how your skills and experiences align with the requirements.
Tailor Your CV: Customise your CV to highlight relevant experience and skills that match the role. Emphasise any previous work in security or customer service, as well as your ability to handle challenging situations.
Craft a Strong Cover Letter: Write a compelling cover letter that explains why you are interested in the position and how you meet the criteria outlined in the job description. Be specific about your motivations for working at the House of Commons.
Prepare for the Assessment: Since the application process includes a fitness test, ensure you are physically prepared. Familiarise yourself with the requirements and practice accordingly. Mention your commitment to maintaining physical fitness in your application.
How to prepare for a job interview at HOUSE OF COMMONS
✨Understand the Role
Make sure you have a clear understanding of what a Security Officer Apprentice does. Familiarise yourself with the responsibilities, such as controlling access and conducting searches, so you can discuss how your skills align with these tasks.
✨Prepare for the Fitness Test
Since physical fitness is crucial for this role, practice for the multi-stage fitness test (bleep test) in advance. Being able to demonstrate your fitness level will show your commitment to the role and readiness to meet its demands.
✨Research the House of Commons
Learn about the House of Commons and its security policies. Understanding the environment you'll be working in will help you answer questions more effectively and show your genuine interest in the position.
✨Dress Professionally
First impressions matter! Dress smartly for your interview to convey professionalism. A neat appearance will reflect your seriousness about the role and respect for the institution you're applying to.