Here’s How You Can Upgrade From Being a Security Guard to a Door Supervisor

The security industry in the UK offers a wide range of rewarding career opportunities. From safeguarding bustling event venues to overseeing the safety of patrons in popular nightlife spots, the industry provides diverse roles that cater to individuals seeking dynamic and impactful careers. If you’re currently working as a security guard and are looking to enhance your role, getting door supervisor training might be the next step. Door supervisors handle greater responsibilities, are offered better pay, and work in dynamic environments such as pubs, clubs, and events. 

Let’s walk you through how to transition from a security guard to a door supervisor while exploring how your existing training and experience can be beneficial.

Why Upgrade to a Door Supervisor Role?

While working as a security guard is a vital and respected profession, upgrading to a door supervisor role can significantly enhance your career prospects. According to the British Security Industry Association (BSIA), the security sector employs over 400,000 people in the UK, with door supervisors forming a vital part of this workforce.

Becoming a door supervisor opens doors (pun intended!) to more dynamic roles within the security industry. This role involves more advanced responsibilities, such as managing entry points, ensuring venue safety, and handling incidents with a balance of authority and professionalism.

One of the key benefits of becoming a door supervisor is the increase in earning potential. Hourly wages for door supervisors typically range between £12 and £15, compared to £10 to £11 for many security guard positions. Furthermore, door supervisors are often eligible for overtime and work at premium events, increasing their earnings further.

Additionally, the role offers a dynamic working environment. Whether it’s overseeing a live concert, managing a nightclub entrance, or providing security at a festival, door supervisors experience a variety of engaging scenarios. This adds a layer of excitement and professional development beyond the scope of a standard security guard role.

Is Your Existing Security Guard Training Relevant?

If you’re already working as a security guard, you may have acquired skills that overlap with those required for door supervisor roles. For instance, conflict resolution, communication skills, and situational awareness are critical abilities in both professions. Your prior experience can give you an advantage when undergoing door supervisor training and performing in the role.

Additionally, if you have completed an SIA security guard training course, some aspects of the content will be familiar, such as:

• Understanding UK laws and regulations related to security.
• Health and safety practices.
• Principles of patrolling and monitoring.

However, door supervisors require extra skills, particularly in managing licensed premises, ensuring compliance with alcohol laws, and physically intervening when necessary. These topics are covered in detail in the SIA door supervisor training course, making it an essential next step for upgrading your role.

For more tips, resources, and inspiration, check out our blogs under Get Training.

Step 1: Understand the Requirements

Transitioning to a door supervisor role begins with understanding the requirements. To legally work as a door supervisor, you need an SIA door supervisor licence. This is a mandatory certification for anyone supervising security in licensed premises.

Eligibility Requirements:

• Age: You must be at least 18 years old.
• Criminal Record Check: Pass a Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) check.
• Right to Work: You must legally be allowed to work in the UK.
• Training Completion: You must successfully complete an SIA-accredited door supervisor training course.

Step 2: Enroll in Door Supervisor Training

As discussed above, the SIA door supervisor training course is the cornerstone of your journey to becoming a door supervisor. This comprehensive course provides in-depth knowledge and practical skills tailored to the role.

What the Course Covers:

1. Working in the Private Security Industry: Build on foundational knowledge from your security guard training, covering laws, regulations, and best practices.
2. Conflict Management: Learn de-escalation techniques tailored for high-pressure scenarios commonly faced at licensed venues.
3. Physical Intervention Skills: Develop the skills needed to safely and legally manage physical confrontations.
4. Working as a Door Supervisor: Focus on entry control, customer service, and ensuring compliance with alcohol and venue regulations.

SIA training courses are designed to balance theoretical learning with practical exercises, ensuring you’re fully prepared for the challenges of the role. By signing up for a course relevant to your desired profession, you can unlock new career opportunities. 

Step 3: Complete the Training and Exams

Completing your training is a significant milestone in your transition. Engage actively during the sessions, as the course is designed to prepare you for both the examinations and real-world scenarios.

The training concludes with assessments, including multiple-choice exams and practical evaluations. Once you pass, you’ll receive a certificate of completion, which is required to apply for your SIA door supervisor licence.

Tips for Success:

• Focus on building confidence during physical intervention exercises.
• Engage in discussions about UK laws related to licensed premises.
• Practice mock scenarios provided during the training to familiarise yourself with the role.

Step 4: Apply for Your SIA Door Supervisor Licence

With your training completed, it’s time to apply for your SIA door supervisor licence. This licence allows you to legally work as a door supervisor in the UK.

Application Steps:

1. Create an account on the official SIA website.
2. Submit your training certificate and proof of identity.
3. Pay the application fee (£184).
4. Wait for the SIA to conduct a DBS check and process your application.

The licence is valid for three years and can be renewed online. 

Step 5: Begin Your New Career as a Door Supervisor

Once you have your licence, you’re ready to embark on your new career. Door supervisors are in demand across various industries, including nightlife, retail, and event management.

With your additional training and qualifications, you’ll stand out to employers. Many security companies and event management firms actively seek licensed door supervisors, offering competitive salaries and benefits.

Start Your Journey Today

Transitioning from a security guard to a door supervisor is an investment in your future. With your existing skills and the right training, you’re well-positioned to excel in this role. 

At Get Licensed, we’re dedicated to your success. Our courses combine in-depth theoretical knowledge with practical skills to give you a competitive edge. With flexible training schedules, experienced instructors, and a strong history of helping individuals thrive, we ensure your transition into the security industry is both smooth and rewarding.

Don’t wait. Book your SIA training course with us and unlock your potential as a door supervisor!