NZ Certificate in Security
The NZ Certificate in Security (Foundation) (Level 3) is an NZQA-approved security training programme designed to equip security professionals with the skills, knowledge, and attributes required for promoting a safe and secure environment.
Graduates complete the programme with up-to-date knowledge of NZ legislation, confidentiality best practice, personal safety, situational awareness, and risk management. Led by assessors with both academic and security backgrounds, the programme supports employees throughout their learning journey, addressing key security challenges, such as security patrolling, property protection, and retail loss prevention.
What is Learn & Earn?
Learn & Earn helps employees reach their full potential by turning everyday work experience into recognised qualifications.
Through flexible, work-based learning programmes, we help employees develop skills, strengthen teams, and support meaningful career progression — all in a way that fits around real life commitments.
Learn & Earn training is achieved on the job, with assessment happening within the workplace. We provide the learning tools, resources, tutors, and assessors, and learners enjoy a blend of online tutor-directed learning, work-based activities, and independent self-study.
If you are unsure whether the NZ Certificate in Security (Foundation) (Level 3) is right for you, please get in touch with us at industryengagement@nzseg.com
Who should enrol?
- Patrol Officers
- Monitoring Operators
- Security Officers
- Security Team Leaders
- Event Security Officers
- Concierge / VIP Security Personnel
- Cash-in-Transit Officers
- Shift Leaders
- Noise Control Officers
- And more!
Duration
32 weeks + 1 week study break
Credits
60
Delivery
Work-based & Online
Programme overview
Module 1: Communication and Safety
Develop strong observation skills to identify potential threats, while applying effective communication strategies and delivering customer service in a security environment.
Module 2: Conflicts and Incidents
Learn how incidents are managed within New Zealand’s Coordinated Incident Management System (CIMS), while supporting effective incident and emergency response. Build confidence operating security technology used to monitor, report, and respond to security events.
Module 3: Protective Security and Risk Factors
Understand the risks affecting security personnel, while applying protective security requirements in a range of environments. Develop foundational knowledge of basic life support and first aid to respond effectively in emergency situations.
Module 4: Efficiency and Effectiveness
Understand the factors that influence security risks, while applying protective security requirements in practical scenarios. Learn how to manage crowd control and monitor entry and exit points within a professional security context.
Entry requirements
- Learners must currently be working in the security sector.
- All learners must have English language competence to undertake this programme which is taught and assessed in English. Each application will be evaluated on a case-by-case basis.
- Only people with the right to work and study in New Zealand may apply
- TBC
- TBC
Graduate outcomes
Upon completing the NZ Certificate in Security (Foundation) (Level 3), graduates will be proficient in:
- Understanding their role in creating a safe and secure environment for people, property, and organisations
- Following New Zealand laws, regulations, and workplace procedures relevant to the security industry
- Communicating confidently and professionally with the public, clients, and colleagues
- Using observation and situational awareness skills to identify risks, suspicious behaviour, and potential threats
- Responding safely and effectively to incidents, conflicts, and emergencies, including following the Coordinated Incident Management System (CIMS)
- Proficiency in patrolling, access control, crowd control, and loss prevention
- Using basic security technology and equipment correctly
- Applying health and safety practices, including basic first aid and personal safety techniques
- Handling information responsibly and maintaining confidentiality at all times
Career opportunities
On completion of this programme, graduates can progress into roles such as:
- Security Team Leader
- Security Supervisor
- Security Operations Manager
Skills learned in security can also help you transition into other fields such as:
- Police or Law Enforcement
- Corrections (Prison) Officer
- Customs / Border Security
- Emergency Services
- Risk and Safety roles in other industries
These are not direct promotions within a security company but are common career pathways for people with strong security, observation, and incident management experience.
Contact Us
For more information contact:
- Kim, Industry Engagement Partner
- kimberley@nzse.ac.nz
- 021 244 0132