The Security Institute - Young People's Skill Building Day 2025

Building on
the success of last year’s inaugural gathering, this year’s event featured an
expanded programme of practical challenges and security-focused skill-building
demonstrations, thanks to the participation of a wide range of corporate
partners and security companies. These organisations showcased their expertise
through a series of hands-on activities, giving young people a unique
opportunity to explore real-world applications in the security sector.
The day
included engaging displays and workshops led by teams from the National
Protective Security Authority (NPSA), Specialist K9s, Surelock McGill, Bores
Group Ltd, Esoteric and headline sponsors Responsec, covering everything from
perimeter protection systems and canine handling, to cyber security simulations
and physical resilience tasks. These were complemented by dynamic contributions
from local emergency services such as Leicestershire Fire & Rescue and Leicestershire
Police. St Johns Ambulance cadets also returned to offer further inspiration
and interactive engagement.
Over 150
participants attended the event, representing a diverse array of groups
including the Loughborough Sea Cadets, St John Ambulance Cadets, Warwickshire
Police Cadets, Leicestershire Fire Cadets and Loughborough College students.
Their energy and enthusiasm underpinned the day’s success, as they navigated a
packed schedule of skill-building activities designed to foster teamwork,
critical thinking, and resilience.
Notable
dignitaries and special guests also lent their support to the day’s
proceedings, including the Lord-Lieutenant of Leicestershire, Mike Kapur, the Deputy
Lieutenant of Leicestershire, Mrs Eileen Perry,
The High
Sheriff of Leicester, Mr Stephen Bryan with Consort Mrs Jane Bryan, the Chairman
of Leicestershire County Council, Mr. Paul Harrison with Consort Mr. Luke
Harrison, the Chairman of Harborough District Council, Cllr. Peter James and
the Temporary Chief Constable Leicestershire Police, Mr. David Sandall, among
others.
A key moment
in the day was the awards ceremony, where participants were recognised for
their exceptional performance across the various activities. The winners
demonstrated outstanding initiative and teamwork, embodying the spirit and
potential of future leaders within the security profession.
Sarah
Austerberry MLitt CSyP FSyI, CEO of The Security Institute, reflected on the
event’s continued growth:
“This second
iteration of our Skill Building Event has exceeded all expectations. The
participation of Her Royal Highness The Princess Royal was a true honour and a
testament to the importance of what we are building. The enthusiasm of the
young attendees, combined with the generous support of our exhibitors, created
a truly unforgettable day. We are proud to be nurturing young talent and
helping to build a stronger, safer future through education, exposure and
experience.”
A special
thanks was extended to the Leicestershire Girlguiding, whose continued support
and hospitality made the event possible for a second year running.