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QNUK Level 4 Award in Physical Penetration Testing Operations (RQF) Course

Who is This Course For?

Are you ready to take the next step in your career as a security professional? The QNUK Level 4 Award in Physical Penetration Testing Operations (RQF) is designed for individuals who want to better understand how to assess and improve organisational security. Whether in Protective Security, Cyber Security, Law Enforcement, or Corporate Security, this course will equip you with the skills to identify and test the physical security posture of a client's site.

Course Details


  • Cost: £1800.00 + VAT (£2160) per delegate
  • Duration: 5 Days

Dates

L4 Pen Testing
15-19 Jan (London) (Fully Booked)
19-23 Feb (Derby) (Fully Booked)
08-12 April (London)
03-07 June (London) (Fully Booked)
12-16 August (London) CSE 1 
12-16 August (London) CSE 2
30 September to 4th October (London)
25-29 November (Derby)
02-06 December (London)
16-20 December (London) (Fully Booked)
13-17 Jan   (London) (Fully booked)
27-31 Jan   (London) 
03-07 Mar  (London) Course 1 (Fully Booked)
03-07 Mar  (London) Course 2 (Fully Booked)
05-09 May  (London)
07 -11 Jul    (London)
22-26 Sept  (London)
10-14 Nov   (London)
08-12 Dec   (London)

What You'll Learn

During this in-depth, hands-on course, you’ll cover:

Planning and Executing Penetration Tests

Develop strategies to prepare and conduct safe physical penetration tests on infrastructure and other client sites.

Identifying Vulnerabilities

Learn to identify vulnerabilities during a physical penetration test, assess security measures such as access controls, surveillance systems, and employee behaviours while attempting to exploit weaknesses in physical barriers or protocols.

Ethical and Legal Considerations

Identify the crucial legal requirements and ethical considerations that govern Physical Penetration Testing.

Reporting and Recommendations

Develop the ability to document findings clearly and offer practical recommendations for improving security measures.

  • The 5-day course has been developed by trainers and operators with backgrounds in specialist protective security, military, and government service. They also have extensive experience in physical penetration testing in the commercial environment.

    The areas covered include:

    • Legal and ethical aspects of physical penetration testing
    • Open-source intelligence gathering (OSINT)
    • Social engineering techniques
    • Operational planning
    • Physical security systems
    • Conducting reconnaissance
    • Methods of gaining access
    • Useful equipment
    • Working in collaboration with IT penetration testers
    • Preparing and presenting the final report.
    • 5-day classroom and external venue based course, including a requirement for self-study 
    • Assessment is through a portfolio of evidence which demonstrates that the candidate has met the required assessment criteria. Candidates will be expected to apply and show evidence of both theoretical and practical knowledge in their portfolio and during practical scenarios.
  • General Requirements:

    Due to the sensitive nature of some of the content within this qualification, individuals are required to hold a minimum of one of the following:

    • DBS check appropriately successful for the sector in which the learner is intending to operate
    • DBS check in progress and likely. A letter of is recommendation is required from a senior member of the individuals organisation
    • SCor DV vetting
    • BS7858 screened

    General Requirements:

    • Age: Age: You must be over 18 years of age to enrol on this course.
    • Language Proficiency: A good command of English is required, as all course materials, assessments, and instructions will be delivered in English. You should be able to communicate fluently and understand technical terms used in security operations.

    Skills/Qualifications:

    • Security Experience: Prior experience in security, facility management, or law enforcement is beneficial but not essential.
    • Relevant Qualifications: A Level 3 qualification in security or related fields, or a background in military or law enforcement, is advantageous.
    • Physical Fitness: Basic physical fitness is required to participate in practical activities.

    Meeting these requirements will ensure you are  equipped to fully engage with the content and practical elements of this specialised training.

  • What if I don’t meet the general requirements?

    If you don’t meet the basic requirements, such as age or language proficiency, you may need to address those before enrolling. Contact our team to discuss your specific situation and alternative options.

    Can I apply if I have equivalent experience rather than formal qualifications?

    Yes, equivalent experience in the security, law enforcement, or military fields can often be considered in place of formal qualifications. Please provide details when applying, and our team will assess your eligibility.

    Is there any flexibility with the physical fitness requirement?

    The course involves practical exercises, but we can accommodate varying fitness levels. Contact us to discuss any concerns, and we’ll work with you to ensure you can fully participate.

    What should I do if I don’t pass the assessment on my first attempt?

    If you don’t pass the assessment, you’ll have the opportunity to retake it. We’ll provide additional support and guidance to help you succeed.

    Can I take the course part-time or at a flexible pace?

    The course is typically structured for full-time completion, but please contact us to discuss any specific needs, and we may be able to offer more flexible options.

Ready to Enrol?

Start your journey now by submitting an enquiry, and take the first step toward becoming a certified expert in physical security.

Unlock Your Future in Security

Upon completing the QNUK Level 4 Award in Physical Penetration Testing Operations, a range of exciting and high-demand roles in the private security industry may become available to you. Here are some of the key career pathways you can pursue:

Security Consultant

Physical Penetration Tester

Risk Manager

Corporate Security Officer

The Value of Your QNUK Level 4 Certification

The QNUK Level 4 Award in Physical Penetration Testing Operations (RQF) is a nationally recognised qualification that sets you apart in the private security industry. It demonstrates advanced knowledge in assessing and improving physical security measures, a critical skill for roles in penetration testing, risk management, and corporate security consultancy.

Earning this certification boosts your career by showcasing your ability to identify security vulnerabilities and implement effective solutions, making you a sought-after expert in the field. With this qualification, you gain credibility and trust from employers, enhancing your prospects for more specialised and higher-paying roles within the private and public security sectors.

Just completed my AET course alongside with physical intervention and conflict management, this was completed in Derby. The learning environment was very plesant spacious and clean. The course material was very self explaintory , all trainers helped me every step of the way making me feel confident in my skills and coursework. The trainers work at your level, as im not the brightest tool in the box, but passed. course was aboustley worth every penny and will be doing my further training in the future with HZL. I would suggest anyone wanting to become a instructor teacher should use this service.
- Natasha Botswa, Google Review
I'm on a level 4 'Physical Penetration Test (PPT) course with HZL group. Extremely professional trainers with obvious operational expertise in this security field. The course content was a good mix of theory and practical application, and we conducted a live PPT operation from start to finish. This course comes highly recommended for all security professionals and for groups wanting to invest in their security professional's development and organisations physical security enhancement. Superb!
- Mick Thompson, Google Review
Close to completing the Physical Security Penetration Test Course with HZL. A good mixture of Theory and practical training. Well thought out course at a good pace. would benefit any security professional who might be considering conducting physical penetration testing or for those who are already doing this as a CDP top up. Gives you a formal qualification at Level 4
- Les Wren, Google Review

    Step-by-Step Guide to Enrol

    Enrolling in the QNUK Level 4 Award in Physical Penetration Testing Operations is simple. Follow these three easy steps:

    Step 1: Submit an Enquiry

    Complete our online enquiry form or contact our team directly. Provide your details, and we will get back to you with course information and availability.

    Step 2: Receive Confirmation

    Our team will confirm your eligibility and provide a detailed course outline, including dates and costs. Once everything is set, you will receive confirmation of your enrollment.

    Step 3: Begin Your Training

    Upon enrolment, you will receive access to course materials, the training schedule and joining instructions to prepare you for becoming a physical penetration tester.

    Ready to Enrol?

    Start your journey now by submitting an enquiry, and take the first step toward becoming a certified expert in physical security.