SIA Door Supervisor Top-Up Refresher Training Overview
Renewing your SIA Door Supervisor licence? Your next step is the SIA Top-Up Refresher Course — the mandatory qualification you need to keep your licence valid and continue working legally in the UK security industry. 🛡️
This 2-day course, formerly known as the "Top-Up", was updated by the SIA to bring existing door supervisors fully in line with today's industry standards. It consolidates everything you need for a smooth, compliant renewal — no full 6-day course required.
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Why this course is now mandatory: From 1st April 2025, anyone renewing their SIA Door Supervisor licence must complete the new Refresher qualification (replacing the older Top-Up). This is to ensure every working door supervisor in the UK is up to date on the latest threats and techniques the SIA has identified as critical.
What's new in this updated course:
- ✔ Terror Threat Awareness — recognise and respond to evolving threats in licenced venues
- ✔ Safeguarding from Spiking — protect vulnerable members of the public from drink and needle spiking incidents
- ✔ Vulnerability Awareness — identify and support vulnerable individuals on the door and inside premises
- ✔ Enhanced Physical Intervention Skills — updated non-pain-compliant holding and escorting techniques
- ✔ Refreshed Conflict Management — practical communication skills to defuse high-risk situations
Why renew with Security Training Hub?
- ✔ Trained by experienced security industry instructors with real-world door experience
- ✔ Small class sizes — you get genuine 1-to-1 support during practicals
- ✔ All exam fees and certification fees included — no surprise add-ons
- ✔ Unlimited exam retakes if needed — we get you across the line
- ✔ 100% Money-Back Training Guarantee* — if you're not happy with your course experience
👉 Already experienced and worked the doors for years? You still need this. The SIA's licence-linked qualifications are renewed in cycles — even seasoned operatives must complete the refresher to keep working. It also genuinely sharpens your skills against modern threats most door staff have never been trained on.
Course Structure & Assessment
The SIA Door Supervisor Refresher qualification is delivered over 2 days and is made up of 2 refresher units. Each unit has a written multiple-choice exam plus a practical assessment. Here's exactly what you'll cover and how you'll be assessed:
UNIT 1
Principles of Working as a Door Supervisor in the Private Security Industry (Refresher)
- ✔ Identifying terror threats & the role of security in managing them
- ✔ Safeguarding the public from spiking incidents
- ✔ Supporting vulnerable people on the door & inside venues
- ✔ Updated communication skills & conflict management
- ✔ Drug & weapon awareness, incident recording
Assessment: 35-question multiple-choice exam (55 minutes, 71% pass mark) + practical observation of communication device use (15 minutes, 100% pass required).
UNIT 2
Application of Physical Intervention Skills in the Private Security Industry (Refresher)
- ✔ Understanding the implications & risks of physical intervention
- ✔ How to reduce risk when intervening
- ✔ Non-pain-compliant holding & escorting techniques
- ✔ Self-protection skills for personal & public safety
- ✔ Decision-making in fast-moving situations
Assessment: 30-question multiple-choice exam (45 minutes, 80% pass mark) + practical observation of every physical intervention technique + visually recorded Q&A on PI knowledge (100% pass required).
⚠️ First Aid Prerequisite: Before attending, you must hold a valid Emergency First Aid at Work (EFAW) qualification with at least 12 months remaining. You'll need to show this to your tutor on day one. Don't have one? Speak to our team on 020 8178 4919 — we can book an EFAW course alongside your refresher as a package.
What's Included in Your Course
Your course fee with Security Training Hub covers everything you need to leave qualified and ready to renew your SIA licence — no hidden extras.
All tuition by experienced SIA-approved trainers
Full course materials & workbook
Awarding body exam & registration fees
Certificate upon passing (issued in 7–10 days)
Practical assessment under supervision
Unlimited exam retakes if needed
Post-course renewal guidance for your SIA application
VAT — already included in the price you see
Who is this course for?
- ✔ Existing Door Supervisor licence holders whose licence is expiring within the next few months
- ✔ Door supervisors whose first licence-linked qualification was achieved after April 2021 and are now due to renew
- ✔ Anyone with a pre-2021 qualification + an older Top-Up who needs to bring their training fully up to current SIA standards
- ✔ Security Guards holding an SIA licence who'd like to upgrade to a Door Supervisor licence at renewal
Frequently Asked Questions
When do I need to do the Refresher course?
You should complete it before your existing SIA Door Supervisor licence expires. The SIA does not extend licence expiry dates, so you must have your refresher certificate in hand before submitting your renewal application. Most learners book 2–3 months ahead of their licence expiry to leave plenty of time.
Is the Refresher course mandatory?
Yes. Since 1st April 2025, the Refresher qualification (or the previous Top-Up if completed before then) is required for renewing your Door Supervisor licence. Without it, the SIA will not process your renewal.
Can I take the Refresher course online?
No. The SIA requires this qualification to be delivered face-to-face because of the practical physical intervention component. You'll need to attend in person at one of our training venues.
Do I need a First Aid qualification before booking?
Yes — it's an SIA requirement. You must hold a valid Emergency First Aid at Work (EFAW) certificate with at least 12 months remaining. If you don't, we can book you onto a combined EFAW + Refresher package. Call 020 8178 4919 for details.
What happens if I fail an exam?
You'll get unlimited retakes — and we're protected by our 100% Money-Back Training Guarantee*. Our trainers will work with you until you pass.
How long until I receive my certificate?
Your certificate is typically issued within 7–10 working days of passing. Once you have it, you can apply for your SIA licence renewal straight away.
I let my licence expire — can I still do the Refresher?
If your licence has expired for less than the SIA's allowed grace window, the refresher may still be the correct route. If it has been expired for a long period, you may need the full Door Supervisor course instead. Call our team on 020 8178 4919 and we'll talk you through the right option.
Locations
We currently run the SIA Door Supervisor Refresher training in Telford. If you're in Telford or any neighbouring town or city across Shropshire and the West Midlands, secure your renewal training with Security Training Hub today.
