Language Skills in Security Training: What You Need to Know
Why Language Matters in Security Language is a vital skill in both security training and frontline security work. As a
Language Skills in Security Training: What You Need to Know
Why Language Matters in Security
Language is a vital skill in both security training and frontline security work. As a security officer, your ability to understand spoken information and respond clearly – often in unpredictable or high-pressure situations – can directly affect the safety and experience of others.
At Asset College, we support students from many language backgrounds, including those who speak English as an additional language. This article explains the spoken language skills needed to succeed in a security course and provides guidance on how to prepare if this is a challenge for you.
At Asset College, we support students from many language backgrounds, including those who speak English as an additional language. This article explains the spoken language skills needed to succeed in a security course and provides guidance on how to prepare if this is a challenge for you.
What Are “Language Skills”?
Language refers to your ability to:
- Listen and understand what is being said
- Speak clearly, confidently and appropriately
- Use appropriate tone, body language and communication style
- Respond to instructions and questions quickly and correctly
Language skills differ from literacy (reading and writing) – though the two are connected. In security, you will need to process spoken information and communicate verbally in a wide range of situations.
Real-World Language Demands in Security Work
As a licensed security officer, your role may involve:
- Giving directions to members of the public
- Explaining rules or refusing entry in a calm and professional way
- Responding to verbal abuse or aggression while remaining in control
- Calling for assistance via radio or phone
- Giving verbal reports to police or supervisors
- Listening to instructions and responding appropriately under pressure
If your spoken English is unclear, limited, or frequently misunderstood, it may put you or others at risk. That’s why language ability is a critical part of both training and employment.
Language in the Classroom and Assessment
In your security course, you will be expected to:
- Follow verbal instructions from trainers and assessors
- Participate in group discussions and practical scenarios
- Speak clearly in role-plays and simulations
- Use correct language when dealing with simulated members of the public
- Respond to questions verbally in some assessments
If you struggle with listening comprehension or speaking fluently, this can affect your performance and ability to complete the course.
Language Assessment at Enrolment
All prospective students complete a Language, Literacy and Numeracy (LLN) assessment as part of the enrolment process. This includes listening and verbal communication components appropriate to the qualification and delivery mode.
The purpose of this assessment is to:
The purpose of this assessment is to:
- Ensure you have the minimum language skills required for the course
- Identify any areas where support or referral may be beneficial
- Help you prepare for success, rather than placing you in a situation where you’re likely to struggle
What If My English Speaking Skills Need Work?
If you’re not confident in your verbal English, we may recommend:
- Referral to an English language program, such as:
- The Adult Migrant English Program (AMEP)
- The Skills for Education and Employment (SEE) program
- Foundation language programs at local colleges or community centres
- Deferring your enrolment to focus on language development
- Exploring alternative courses until your English improves
These programs are designed to help people build the spoken language skills needed for work and further training – and can be an important step toward a security career.
Reasonable Adjustments and Communication Expectations
We will consider reasonable adjustments for students who need language support. However, we will not offer adjustments that:
- Change the required verbal communication skills of the course
- Compromise the safety of students, staff or the public
- Impact the integrity of assessments or real-world readiness
- Disrupt the participation of others in training activities
Being able to communicate clearly is not just a training requirement – it’s a legal and professional expectation in the security industry.
Decision-Making Checklist: Am I Ready?
Ask yourself:
- Can I understand spoken English in busy or unfamiliar environments?
- Can I give clear verbal directions and answer questions from the public?
- Can I speak professionally and respectfully when managing conflict?
- Can I follow verbal instructions in a group setting?
- Do people often struggle to understand my English speaking?
- Have I completed a language program or received advice about my current ability?
If any of these raise concerns, a conversation with our staff – or a referral to a language support service – may be the next best step.
Clear Communication Starts Here
Having strong spoken English skills is essential for both training and employment in security. It’s not about being “perfect” – it’s about being able to speak clearly, listen carefully, and respond professionally when it matters most.
If your language skills aren’t quite there yet, that doesn’t mean you can’t reach your goal. It just means there may be another step in your journey first – and we’re here to support you in making the right decision for your success and safety.
If your language skills aren’t quite there yet, that doesn’t mean you can’t reach your goal. It just means there may be another step in your journey first – and we’re here to support you in making the right decision for your success and safety.
Disclaimer
Please note: While Asset College supports students with varying skill levels, training programs are aligned to industry expectations. LLN and digital skills assessments help us identify whether students are currently prepared to begin training. Completing the course does not guarantee a security licence or employment. We encourage all students to consider their readiness carefully and seek support if needed before enrolling.
Article Series
Do I Have the Right Language, Literacy, Numeracy and Digital Skills for a Security Course?
Literacy Skills in Security Training: Why Reading and Writing Matter
Understanding Literacy in the Security Context Literacy isn’t just about reading books or writing essays – it’s about being able
Numeracy Skills in Security Training: What You Need and Why It Matters
Numeracy and the Security Role Numeracy skills go far beyond classroom maths – they’re part of everyday decision-making, problem-solving, and
Digital Skills in Security Training: What You Need to Know
Digital Confidence for Modern Security Careers Technology is now a fundamental part of the security industry – and of the
