There’s no better assessment of training quality than hearing about the experiences of those who have completed it.
John Drake, Head of Security and Front of House Acting Operational Lead at Mitie Soft Services at AWE recently completed The Security Institute Advanced Certificate in Security Management. After successfully passing the course, we sat down with John and asked him about his experience and how he’s applied the learning to his real-world security environment.
Having worked at the same site for over 10 years, it’s easy to become focused on what you know and what works within your own organisation. The Advanced Certificate challenged me to look beyond that.
What were the most valuable lessons or skills you gained from the training, and how do these relate to your role within security at Mitie?
One of the most valuable aspects of the training was the exposure to security environments and operating models outside of my own experience. Having worked at the same site for over 10 years, it’s easy to become focused on what you know and what works within your own organisation. The Advanced Certificate challenged me to look beyond that and introduced me to a much broader view of the profession.
The course provided insight into different sectors, security models, leadership approaches, and risk management practices, which helped me better understand how security functions operate across a variety of organisations. It also reinforced the professional standards and strategic thinking expected of security leaders, which has been invaluable in my current role as Head of Security and Front of House.
How has the training improved your confidence or effectiveness in identifying, preventing, or responding to security-related risks or incidents?
The training has significantly increased my confidence. While I had extensive operational experience, the course gave me the academic and professional framework to support many of the decisions I make day-to-day. It helped me better understand the “why” behind established security principles and allowed me to approach challenges with a more structured and strategic mindset.
I now feel more confident when discussing risk, assurance, governance, and security strategy with clients, stakeholders, and peers. The knowledge gained has strengthened my ability to identify emerging risks, evaluate potential mitigations, and apply best practice in a practical business environment.
The support provided throughout the programme was excellent, and the material encouraged me to continue my professional development.
Which aspects of the course did you find most beneficial, and are there any areas where additional training or support would be helpful?
The most beneficial aspect was the ability to relate real-world experience to recognised industry standards and best practice. The content was engaging and relevant, allowing me to immediately apply what I was learning within my role.
The support provided throughout the programme was excellent, and the material encouraged me to continue my professional development, which ultimately led me to enrol on The Security Institute Level 5 Diploma. If anything, the course has highlighted the value of continual learning within the security profession rather than leaving me feeling additional support was required.
I would highly recommend both the course and PerpetuityARC to anyone looking to broaden their knowledge, develop professionally, and gain a wider perspective of the security industry. The training has genuinely helped me grow as a security professional and has added significant value to both my personal development and my organisation.