Level 4 Covert Surveillance Planning and Operations

Course overview

The Level 4 Covert Surveillance Planning and Operations Course is an advanced programme designed for security professionals looking to develop the knowledge, practical skills and operational competence required to plan, conduct and report on covert surveillance operations. Although the course is classroom-based, the majority of the programme is focused on practical training and operational exercises, allowing learners to apply the knowledge covered in the classroom in realistic surveillance scenarios. From Day 1, learners will have access to a range of professional surveillance equipment for use throughout the course. This provides learners with the opportunity to become familiar with equipment and techniques used within professional surveillance operations while developing their practical skills throughout the programme. Training combines classroom instruction with practical exercises covering foot surveillance, mobile surveillance, surveillance planning, communications, operational briefings, surveillance logs, reporting and evidential considerations. The course places a strong emphasis on developing practical operational ability rather than simply classroom-based theory, with learners progressively applying their skills throughout the seven-day programme. Duration: 7 Days Timings: 08:00 – 20:00 Location: Close Protection Academy, Brentwood Assessment: Open-response workbook and practical skills assessments. Who Is This Course For? Designed for qualified Close Protection Operatives looking to expand their surveillance skills and transition into professional covert surveillance roles within the commercial sector. On Successful Completion: Learners who successfully complete the required knowledge and practical assessments will achieve the Highfield Accredited Level 4 Covert Surveillance Planning and Operations programme and will have completed practical operational exercises covering surveillance planning, foot and mobile surveillance, communications, operational reporting and intelligence products.

Syllabus / modules

• Principles, Law and Professional Practice of Covert Surveillance
• Principles of Covert Surveillance Operations
• Intelligence, Subject Identification and Protective Intelligence
• Operational Planning and Risk Management
• Command, Control and Surveillance Communications
• Surveillance Equipment, Technology and Deployment
• Behavioural Detection and Hostile Reconnaissance
• Anti-Surveillance and Counter-Surveillance
• Protective Surveillance
• Surveillance Imagery and Digital Evidence
• Surveillance Reporting and Intelligence Products
• Operational Leadership and Team Management