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From course content to payment plans, here are the answers to our most common questions. If you still need help, just get in touch.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long is the course?

The UKPITA course runs over 4 days and 3 nights — Monday to Thursday — at Premier Inn Cribbs Causeway, near Bristol.

What’s included in the £599 course fee?

The course is VAT-exempt and includes:

36 Guided Learning Hours (2 hours more than the minimum required)
A copy of So You Want to Be a Private Investigator
A Surveillance Care Pack (includes thermos flask, mug, solar power bank, adapters, notebook and pen)
A buffet lunch each day
Free on-site parking
Support with your assessment portfolio
Access to the UKPITA alumni WhatsApp group for ongoing mentorship and networking
Course delivery aligned to the newly revised 2026 curriculum (with final syllabus confirmation expected December 2026)

Where is the course held?

The training takes place at Premier Inn Cribbs Causeway Bristol, which offers great facilities, free parking, and comfortable spaces for learning.

Is accommodation included?

Accommodation is not included in the course fee. However, UKPITA students benefit from discounted rates at Premier Inn, and there are several alternative accommodation options nearby.

What qualification will I receive?

You’ll earn the SFJ Awards Level 3 Certificate for Professional Investigators — a nationally recognised qualification respected by the Security Industry Authority (SIA).

Who delivers the course?

The course is delivered by retired UK police officers and trainers who meet the high standards required by our accrediting body.

Is the course eligible for ELCAS funding?

Yes — UKPITA is a registered ELCAS-approved provider, making the course accessible to current and former members of the UK Armed Forces through the Enhanced Learning Credits Scheme.

Is this the updated version of the course?

Yes — we are delivering the latest revised course for 2026, replacing older 2011/2014 content. Please note the final syllabus is due to be formally published in December 2026, so minor adjustments may be made.

What practical experience will I get?

In addition to classroom learning, the course includes two hands-on exercises in OSINT (Open Source Intelligence) and surveillance, so you can apply what you’ve learned in real-world scenarios.

What’s the benefit of joining the alumni WhatsApp group?

Our WhatsApp group is an active support network for course graduates — a space for mentoring, sharing tasks, getting advice, and staying connected to other trained professionals across the UK and beyond.

What other dates are available?

The following additional course dates are scheduled for 2026:

6–9 April 2026
3–6 August 2026
5–8 October 2026

These dates are currently not available to book online. Please get in touch to enquire or register your interest.

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