You can do an intermediate apprenticeship in providing security services.
Entry requirements
You'll usually need:
- some GCSEs, usually including English and maths, for an intermediate apprenticeship
Store detective
Store detectives prevent shoplifting in retail outlets and shopping centres.
Average salary (a year)
£15,000 Starter
to£26,500 Experienced
Typical hours (a week)
46 to 48 a week
You could work
evenings / weekends / bank holidays on shifts
How to become a store detective
You can get into this job through:
- an apprenticeship
- applying directly
Apprenticeship
Direct application
You could apply directly for jobs if you've got relevant experience in retail security, or from working in the police, armed forces or a security company.
More information
Further information
You'll find more details about security training and licensing through the Security Industry Authority.
What it takes
Skills and knowledge
You'll need:
- patience and the ability to remain calm in stressful situations
- to be thorough and pay attention to detail
- knowledge of public safety and security
- the ability to accept criticism and work well under pressure
- the ability to work well with others
- the ability to use your initiative
- knowledge of English language
- customer service skills
- to be able to carry out basic tasks on a computer or hand-held device
Restrictions and requirements
You'll need to:
- have a good level of fitness
- be over 18 years of age
- pass enhanced background checks
Employers will carry out checks on your personal and work history, which could go back up to 10 years.
You may need a security licence issued by the Security Industry Authority (SIA) for certain jobs. You can complete relevant SIA approved training if you need to get one.
You might also need a driving licence and access to a vehicle.
What you'll do
Day-to-day tasks
Your day-to-day duties may include:
- following shoppers or staff who behave suspiciously
- calling the police and describing what you’ve seen
- taking evidence from witnesses
- writing short reports
- giving evidence in court
- stopping anyone trying to leave the store with stolen goods
Working environment
You could work in a court or at a store.
Your working environment may be crowded.
Career path and progression
With experience you could progress to a senior post, like supervisor or security manager.You could also become self-employed and work on contracts for stores.
Current opportunities
Apprenticeships In England
We can't find any apprenticeship vacancies in England for a store detective right now.
The Find an apprenticeship service can help you with your search, send alerts when new apprenticeships become available and has advice on how to apply.
Courses In England
Units from the L2 Principles of Providing Security Services
- Provider: TRAINING STRATEGIES LTD.
- Start date: 13 November 2019
- Location: Liverpool
Principles of Providing Security Services
- Provider: GLOUCESTERSHIRE COLLEGE
- Start date: 07 September 2020
- Location:
JobsIn the United Kingdom
The Find a job service can help you with your search for jobs and send alerts when new jobs become available.
Skills assessment
Take an assessment to learn more about your skills and the careers that might suit you.
Get help using this service
Call 0800 100 900 or use webchat
8am to 10pm, 7 days a week
More ways to contact us