The Security Institute was honoured to host its second annual Young People’s Skill Building Event on Monday 23rd June, held once again at the scenic Topstones Girlguiding Centre in Leicestershire. This year’s event was elevated by the gracious attendance of Her Royal Highness The Princess Royal, whose presence highlighted the growing national significance of this initiative to inspire and support the next generation of security professionals, as well as Her Royal Highness’ enduring commitment to the cause.
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, Mr. Mike Kapur, the Vice Lord-Lieutenant of Leicestershire, Colonel Richard Hurwood, 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, Councillor 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.
