level 3 Apprenticeship Security First Line Manager Review
at OCS Group
Level 3 Apprenticeship
Audit, Business Operations, Customer Service, Government, Human Resources
Manchester
Review Submitted: April 2026
Overall Rating
5 /5
The Overall Rating is the average of all the ratings given in each category. We take those individual ratings and combine them into one final score!
5/5
-
Overview of Role
5/5
-
Skills Development
5/5
-
Structure and Support
Overview of Role
Please give an overview of your role and what this involves on a day-to-day basis:
5/5
In my role, I oversee the security team at the Crown Court. On a day-to-day basis, I ensure that policies and procedures are followed correctly, complete auditable paperwork, and make sure that all relevant legislation is up to date and that information is communicated accurately.
I deal with clients’ needs and support court users, who are predominantly members of the public attending for their cases. I also handle any issues raised by my staff and clients, ensuring that they receive clear information and feel supported throughout the process. A key part of my role is maintaining a safe and secure workplace for everyone, which involves monitoring potential risks, following security procedures, and responding quickly and professionally to any concerns or incidents.
I regularly communicate with different teams to make sure that operational needs are met and that any problems are resolved efficiently. By balancing the needs of clients, staff, and the public, I help to create a professional, welcoming, and safe environment within the court.
During my apprenticeship, I have sharpened my existing skills and developed new ones that are essential for a Level 3 Security First Line Manager.
I have improved my ability to carry out thorough risk assessments, such as identifying potential security threats in the building, assessing the likelihood and impact of incidents, and putting control measures in place to reduce risks. For example, check that emergency procedures are up to date and understood by staff.
My communication skills with stakeholders have also developed significantly. I communicate with clients, colleagues, contractors, and senior managers to share information clearly and professionally. This includes giving concise handovers at shift changes, reporting incidents accurately, and updating senior management on any security concerns or changes to procedures. I have learned how to adapt my communication style depending on whether I am speaking to the public, my team, or management.
I have also built strong skills in contract and KPI management. I understand the key performance indicators we are measured against, such as incident response times, customer satisfaction, and compliance with security procedures. I now help monitor performance against these KPIs, support the team in meeting targets, and contribute ideas on how we can improve our service. For instance, I have taken part in reviewing incident reports to identify trends and suggest improvements to patrol routes and staff briefings.
Overall, the apprenticeship has helped me grow into a more confident and capable first-line manager, with practical experience in risk assessment, stakeholder communication, and managing performance to meet and exceed contractual requirements.
I deal with clients’ needs and support court users, who are predominantly members of the public attending for their cases. I also handle any issues raised by my staff and clients, ensuring that they receive clear information and feel supported throughout the process. A key part of my role is maintaining a safe and secure workplace for everyone, which involves monitoring potential risks, following security procedures, and responding quickly and professionally to any concerns or incidents.
I regularly communicate with different teams to make sure that operational needs are met and that any problems are resolved efficiently. By balancing the needs of clients, staff, and the public, I help to create a professional, welcoming, and safe environment within the court.
During my apprenticeship, I have sharpened my existing skills and developed new ones that are essential for a Level 3 Security First Line Manager.
I have improved my ability to carry out thorough risk assessments, such as identifying potential security threats in the building, assessing the likelihood and impact of incidents, and putting control measures in place to reduce risks. For example, check that emergency procedures are up to date and understood by staff.
My communication skills with stakeholders have also developed significantly. I communicate with clients, colleagues, contractors, and senior managers to share information clearly and professionally. This includes giving concise handovers at shift changes, reporting incidents accurately, and updating senior management on any security concerns or changes to procedures. I have learned how to adapt my communication style depending on whether I am speaking to the public, my team, or management.
I have also built strong skills in contract and KPI management. I understand the key performance indicators we are measured against, such as incident response times, customer satisfaction, and compliance with security procedures. I now help monitor performance against these KPIs, support the team in meeting targets, and contribute ideas on how we can improve our service. For instance, I have taken part in reviewing incident reports to identify trends and suggest improvements to patrol routes and staff briefings.
Overall, the apprenticeship has helped me grow into a more confident and capable first-line manager, with practical experience in risk assessment, stakeholder communication, and managing performance to meet and exceed contractual requirements.
To what extent do you enjoy your programme?
5/5
With OCS Group UK and the training provider, Mercury Training Ltd, I have been fortunate to have an amazing mentor who has supported me throughout both my Level 2 and Level 3 courses, not just this apprenticeship. In addition, my line manager has consistently helped and guided me, especially when I have felt confused or stuck on a subject. Their combined support, feedback, and encouragement have played a key role in my progress and confidence during this programme.
Skills Development
Have you learnt any new skills or developed existing skills?
5/5
Structure and Support
How well organised/structured is your programme?
5/5
My mentor and my line manager have given their full support for this apprenticeship, even going above and beyond by giving extra support classes when I got stuck or confused with some subjects.
How much support do you receive from your employer?
5/5
How much support do you receive from your training provider when working towards your qualifications?
5/5
How well do you feel that your qualification (through your training provider) helps you to perform better in your role?
5/5
Feel like I can tackle different problems and approach them in different ways when conducting tasks or communicating with the client and senior management.
Are there extra-curricular activities to get involved in at your work? (For example, any social activities, sports teams, or even professional networking events.)
5/5
I am also a Social Value Ambassinder as we help people who may be struggling to get jobs or even upskilling my own team and finding charity to support.
Recommendations & Advice
Would you recommend OCS Group to a friend?
Yes
Why?
OCS is a growing company where there are lots of opportunities within the company and room to grow and take on different challenges, with a supportive management team that will guide you in the right direction.
What tips or advice would you give to others applying to OCS Group?
If you want to grow and challenge yourself with great incentives such as apprenticeship schemes and retail discounts, you can benefit from this is the place for you, as OCS always has something going on that you can participate in.
