After paying a similar amount to go on a three day locksmith training course elsewhere (on which I learnt hardly anything). I looked for other locksmith training courses on the Internet, and then I found the three week A1 Safe & Secure course.

However before parting with anymore of my hard earned money, I asked if I could first come and meet the trainer and take a look at the training centre. I arranged to meet 'Bob' the course director at the training premises the next day.

As soon as I saw the training facilities I was very impressed. Straight away I realised that this was the course that I should have originally come on. After having a chat with 'Bob' I decided to enrol on the next available course

Even though the course was fairly intensive for the two weeks that were classroom based, as there was lots of information to take in. The pace of the course was set just right, as there was always a relaxed atmosphere. I learnt a lot of knowledge off 'Bob', from his own experiences as a trading locksmith, during the time in the classroom.

The third week is spent in the field with a trading locksmith. This gives you a chance to put all of your classroom theory into practice, in a working environment. At the end of the three weeks I felt very confident in my locksmithing skills. I am now currently running my own locksmithing business.

I learnt a costly mistake in that 'you cannot learn to be a locksmith on a course that lasts days'. I would therefore recommend no other locksmith training course, but that of A1 Safe & Secure.

Mr Daniel Robinson
Worcester Locksmiths

I had to re-train due to injuries in my past career, and after deciding that I was most interested in the profession of Locksmith, looked carefully at all the training establishments, their courses, and costs.

I decided upon training with A1 Safe And Secure (Proprietor Mr Bob Curry), as his is the most comprehensive training available in the country presently, and for a three week duration, certainly offers the best value for money, plus tutoring from an extremely experienced Locksmith.

I received my tuition one on one with Bob in November 2008, and I successfully assimilated all the necessary points needed to start practising as a trading Locksmith within the first two weeks in the Workshop. This included everything from servicing jobs such as morticing locks into doors, to gaining entry to properties non-destructively. On the more exotic side, I managed to pick open a safe on the first day of week two! Week three I was seconded on detachment for 'Field Training' to a Locksmith company in North Wales, where I had (literally) hands-on experience of all the day to day tasks of the business. During this time I was being continually assessed with regard to how much knowledge I'd taken on board, and not just the tradecraft, but also Customer Relations, and all aspects of running a business successfully.

I regard my training as first-rate, and wouldn't hesitate to recommend A1 Safe And Secure to anyone looking for the best possible grounding in the Locksmith profession.

I put everything I learnt to the test and set up my own business in February 2009. Work is coming in more and more as I become known for doing a good job, and jobs are right across the county, covering a fifty mile radius. Anyone wishing to contact me personally regarding the training with A1 Safe And Secure is welcome to do so…

On august 2008 I attended A1 Safe & Secure 3 week locksmith course. I choose this course because it was unique. I had spent a lot of time searching for a Locksmith course, but most courses only gave 3 to 5 days tuition and did not give you the opportunity to work with an accomplished locksmith in the field. I believe that it is not possible to learn this trade in 5 days I also don't believe you can learn this trade in 3 weeks, but what this course is unique for, not only the relaxed class room atmosphere, the experience of Bob Curry and how he explains in depth of every scenario, but the help he will provide you when you're running your own business with the help line. This course also has a very unique attribute the field training. I received my field training around Chester & Liverpool. My field trainer was very friendly and informative and gave confidence in my ability to become a locksmith. I once worked in a very mundane job, and now I am running my own business in Wiltshire. This course has provided me with the fundamental skills to become a locksmith.

Mr I Murphy A1 Care Locksmiths

Hi Bob

Have been up and running since November, just a few weeks after completing your course. Having done the course with you over 3 weeks and also a 5 day course somewhere else, there is no comparison. The longer training period was definitely more beneficial.

Once again thanks very much for your time.

Andy Elliott
ELLIOTT LOCKS
JOHNSTONE

To whom it may concern, RE: Al Safe and Secure Locksmith Training Centre

Having been trading now for just over one year I would like to express my time spent with Al Safe and Secure Locksmith Training Centre.

After researching the market for some time I came across this centre and what appealed to me was they were ex-military (I knew that I would understand the teaching methods quite easily) and that they also provided training in the field (in hindsight an essential ingredient of the course) and last but by no means least the length of the course. I dread to think how other available courses can teach that subject matter in two to three days. This course was two weeks with an additional week in the field (out there working as a locksmith).

The course content was very detailed with a lot of 'hands on' coupled with power-point presentations and instructor demonstrations. Students soon became efficient in lock-picking, making keys and really understanding the internal mechanical operations of all types of commercial and domestic locks. Throughout the course references were made to actually starting your business and maintaining it along with handouts and course notes. To this day I still use these notes. Each day ended with confirmation of that days training and each day started with revision from the previous day. The field training was absolutely priceless. In relation to dealing with people and customers it was vital training within the programme. Actually doing the job at a customer's residence or commercial premises confirms all that you have been taught in the classroom. It also teaches you the importance of stock control and how you should maintain your paperwork.

As I had just left the military I was very nervous because I was about to put my all into a new career which was going to be invented, managed and maintained by myself. After the first day's induction and training, these nerves had gone. That's when I knew I had made the right decision. I now have a viable business and have been accredited with awards through sheer hard work and effort. I have also personally developed my locksmith knowledge by studying at different training centres around Ireland, England and Spain. All of which I learned of through Al Safe and Secure. A truly remarkable course that provides you with everything in order to launch a new career.

Yours Sincerely,
Andy Wilson
Keyhole Surgery Locksmiths

LOX Security Solutions
3 Framewood Road
Fulmer South Bucks SL2 4QX
12th May 2009

To Whom It May Concern:

Testimonial of NCFE Course in General Locksmithing at A1 Safe and Secure, Hereford

I would like to take this opportunity to express my opinion regarding the quality of instruction, level of knowledge and learning environment received at A1 Safe and Secure (SAS), Hereford. Quality of Instruction: It is my opinion that anyone looking to complete a course in Locksmithing; either as a complete beginner or an established locksmith looking to widen their skills base would not find better instruction than at A1 SAS. Mr Bob Curry, a former Special Air Services Senior Non-Commissioned Officer, carries out each lesson with a proven methodology of 'explanation, demonstration, and practice' this creates a sound knowledge platform, that can be built on, to take his students' learning further. Explanations are clear and concise, while demonstrations are methodical and full of useful tips. During the students' practice Bob is on hand to answer any questions, provide further demonstration (if required) and explanation of the practical, on-the-job, application of the lesson. Level of Knowledge: This subsection can be divided into the knowledge of the instructor and the knowledge gained on the course. As the Senior Instructor, Bob Curry, has a wealth of knowledge; gained from serving within the Special Forces and his subsequent civilian role as a locksmith and instructor. He has many years practical experience and similarly has 'time-served' as an instructor. Having designed locksmiths' tools and with virtually every type of pick, key, machine and most importantly technique to hand Bob is the complete almanac of locksmithing. The instruction on the course imparts grounding in this knowledge; the course syllabus states the areas and lessons covered. However, I can, hand on heart, state that when deployed on my field training, I was fully prepared by the course for all queries and problems that I faced. Also the 24-hour help line allows you to tap into Bob's know how at anytime, if you find you have exhausted your own knowledge.

Learning Environment: I have touched on the technique and resources available at A1 SAS, Hereford. I have attended many Military and Civilian courses from technical, though physical to academic. Bob Curry has the respect of those around him, students, colleagues and ex-students (now successful Locksmiths) this is due to the manner in which Bob conducts his business. The atmosphere is of relaxed concentration; despite learning a completely new skill you feel at ease with what is being taught and I, in particular, came away every day with the feeling of satisfaction that comes from learning that new skill without cutting corners, without any niggling questions at the back of my mind. The environment is set for learning and every conceivable tool is available. This was incredibly useful when selecting a 'tool list' for your own van. It is pointless buying an expensive lock pick only to find that you cannot get on with it. At A1 SAS, you are able to try before you buy; as Bob has either bought it already…or had designed it!! Even now as an ex-student I would be welcome to visit the unit and could as for assistance or look to polish up on new techniques.

All in all I am thoroughly satisfied with the course, I must also mention the field training; this is invaluable experience in the practicalities of setting up your own business and the problems that you may face. As a renowned scholar once wrote "it is always better to learn from someone else's mistakes" the field training allows this. I feel that I have the knowledge, the tools, the skill-set and the ability to answer most Locksmith problems that may be thrown at me, and for those that I cannot answer Bob is at the end of a phone. That makes the A1 SAS Course unique, and in my opinion the best Locksmiths course in the country, plus successful students are Nationally recognised and certificated. Many thanks go to Bob Curry and his team for what will hopefully be, for me, a fantastic career change …. all of my future employees will be have to complete the A1 SAS Locksmiths Training Course.

Saul Lockwood Managing Director
LOX Security Solutions

Hello

If your reading this your probably contemplating a change of career and looking at as many locksmith courses as Google can throw at you ,(I know I did)……..

Well let me tell you why that in my opinion have come to the right place and have no need to look any further. First of all and most importantly is that A1 Safe & Secure locksmith courses are NDE driven and if you see any locksmith jobs advertised then without exception will all ask for competency in Non Destructive Entry and if you opt for one of these three day and you're a locksmith courses you see all over the internet you may be able to start your own business but you will not pick any work up from established locksmith companies and you will destroy an awful lot of locks and maybe your own credibility in the process

I'm not going to list everything I done on the course I took as the A1 team are constantly upgrading using the very latest techniques so what I will tell you is what isn't really said on the website, Things like spending half a day with an accountant specialising in locksmith accounts which was a huge help in starting my own business, Spending a day in a local scrap yard for advanced car and van opening skills, Spending a week with a field trainer who is a qualified locksmith running his own business going on jobs as varied as car and shop entry to letting in the gas board so they can change meters on default accounts .

I must also praise the back up you get with A1 Safe and Secure I know that if I get stuck at two in the morning on a particularly difficult entry in can call Bob the main tutor and he will help me in any way he can .Your not just cut loose with a dodgy certificate and a cordless drill like some of these so called cut price locksmith courses , You get what you pay for ,Yes its not cheap but is it the best locksmith course with the best back you can buy?.............................. In my opinion it is and has guaranteed my future and that of my family. This reference is given freely and if you need to ask me any questions then please don't hesitate to phone or e mail.

GOOD LUCK
Dennis Manning NCFE Locksmith
1Bede Road Baston Peterborough PE6 9PZ
Call01778 560250 or 07950 698242
keymasterlocks@aol.com

After 27 years in the Military I found myself unsure what I wanted to do for my second career. After enquires to numerous locksmith companies and evaluating all they offered, I finally chose A1 as my training supplier. Of all the training providers I questioned over many telephone calls I found A1 to be helpful, honest and forward, readily giving good solid advice (an area many companies fell short with). I found the booking process with A1 completely painless, they organised everything for me including accommodation.

From the start the staff where approachable, friendly and helpful. Instruction was clear and concise with the pace set according to student abilities. Every step was explained in detail, demonstrated by the instructor before sufficient practice time was allocated, "day one and we were already picking locks"….

Throughout the first 2 weeks we were taught all the skills required, following a detailed training program and the instructor imparting his many years of experience and wisdom (priceless information you just can't buy!). This instruction included classroom, theory and practical periods. Not content with just teaching lock picking skills we were taught how to fit and repair locks, what tools to purchase, how to lay out a mobile locksmiths vehicle and just as importantly how to actually set up and run a self employed locksmith company. This included advice on purchasing, costs and setting up accounts.

The final week of instruction saw attachment to a field trainer (a qualified trading locksmith). Again A1 arranged all the details including accommodation! This week working with the field trainer brought together the previous 2 weeks of instruction and served to not only confirm my skills but had it's own field training program, again furthering my knowledge base and skills.

I found the course excellent, hands on from the start with firm supportive guidance given all the way. The course gave me a nationally recognised qualification and best of all once you have completed the course A1 offer you support and advice 24/7 indefinitely, what more could you ask for? In all my pre course research I could not find a company that provided equivalent training or the after course support A1 offers.

If you want a complete career change or just to further your locksmith skills I fully recommend A1 as your training supplier. Look at the other training providers and what they offer then look at A1, there is no comparison.

Carl Harries - Aug 09

I recently had the good fortune to be able to attend a training course run by A1 Safe and Secure,down in Hereford.The comprehensive course was run by Mr.Bob Curry.

Upon arrival at the training facility on day one,we were greeted with warmth,then intoduced to the other students.This was followed by instruction in the course Health and Safety requirements and a mini tour.

The teaching methods used by Bob are by far the most effective that I have ever witnessed,in fact I would go so far as to say that had I been taught with his methods earlier in my education,then I don't think that I would ever have ended up driving lorries.

If Bobs methods are good then his choice of Personal Assistant is truly inspired.Sarah is most professional and yet still approachable, caring for all of their students miriad of problems and concerns.

I cannot praise Bob and Sarah high enough,a superb package that delivers not only a paper qualification,but an individual competant enough to go ahead and provide a service to the general public.

Rumours are abounding that certain other supposed Locksmith training facilities are trying to align themselves to create a benchmark qualification in Locksmithing.We already have one,its the N.C.F.E.standard as taught by Bob.The most worrying trade anomoly has to be where a certain "cowboy"outfit is offering City and Guilds qualification for approx £3k down and a mere 3 days attendance. Surely this is the issue which should be addressed.

Personally,I'm looking forward to attending further courses with Bob(and Sarah) in the future.

Richard B.Mitchell-Lay.

ACE LOCKSMITHS.
Covering the whole of Central Scotland.

I don't hesitate to recommend A1 Safe and Secure for training. The training centre is an ideal learning environment twinned with good instructional technique from Bob. Excellent value for money for MOD leaving the forces.

Regards
NGiblin

Excellent and enjoyable locksmith course. The course was taught at the right pace with plenty of hands on opening and fitting all locks. Looked into some 3-5 day courses and then heard about the 3 week course that A1 Safe and Secure had on offer. Glad I went with them as don't know how you can learn to become a locksmith in 3-5 days. Had a valuable last week spent with a working locksmith going out on jobs etc! Would definetly recommend A1 Safe & Secure if you want to work as a locksmith, well worth the cost! I've been up and running now for 4 months and with the confidence I received after doing the course things are going very well.

Thomas Mclellan
Caledonian Locksmiths, Edinburgh
www.caledonianservices.org
07542 781 131

Andy Porter
MRP Locksmith

In 2009 I attended A1 Safe & Secure 3 week locksmith course. This is unique as most courses only gave 3 to 5 days tuition and did not give the opportunity to work with an accomplished locksmith in the field. I believe that it is not possible to learn this trade in 5 days.

I also don't believe you can learn this trade within 3 weeks, but what this course is unique for, not only the relaxed class room atmosphere, the experience of Bob Curry and how he explains in depth of every scenario, and the help he will provide you when you're running your own business as well as the 24-hour help line witch allows you to tap into Bob's know how at anytime, if you have exhausted all your own knowledge, this is priceless. As I was unemployed at the time I was very nervous about to putting my all into a new career which was going to be managed and maintained by myself but after the first day's induction and training, these nerves had long gone that's when I knew I had made the right choice.

This course has a very unique attribute….the field training. I received my field training around the London area and my field trainer was very friendly and informative and gave confidence in my ability to become a locksmith. The longer training period was definitely more beneficial and I'm now running my own business in Norfolk. This course has provided me with the fundamental skills to become a Nationally Certified locksmith.

This makes the A1 Safe and Secure Course unique, and in my opinion the best Locksmiths course in the country. Many thanks go to Bob and Sarah for what will be, for me, a fantastic career change … All of my future employees WILL have to complete the A1 SAS Locksmiths Training Course. I give this reference freely and if you need to ask me any questions then please don't hesitate to phone or e mail.

Andy Porter
32 Whitsands rd, Swaffham
Norfolk, PE37 7BY
Tel: 01760 722569,
Mobile: 07870520981,
Email: mrp.locksmiths@googlemail.com

" Having been made redundant from my previous job I decided upon taking up a career choice as a locksmith, having spent a lot of time researching various courses on offer I decided upon the A1 safe and secure course in hereford. The course is heavily practical based , which meant I wasn't falling asleep in boring theory lessons! I learnt so much from the 3 week course, the 1st 2 weeks are spent learning about EVERYTHING involving locks - fitting, maintaining, picking, non destructive entry.

The training is then put into practice in week 3 where I was completing real jobs to gain my confidence, after the course is complete I now have many people I can call upon for help in the field which in itself is worth the course fees - definately recommmended. 5 stars!"

" Having completed the intitial locksmith course I saw this as a helping guide when dealing with UPVC doors with my normal day to day locksmith duties, having completed the course it is so much more, this is another string to your bow and will earn you extra money because you can provide a cheaper cost effective solution to upvc problems to residential and business customers alike. You will learn about mechanism faults of door and window openings and how to overcome them, how to measure up and change panes of glass and most importantly how to make more money!. Den the course tutor does a great job and never leaves anyone in the dark ( I was struggling a bit and was a little bit behind the rest of the class), having never touched a pane of glass in my life before I now have a lot of confidence in this field. Once completing the course you will have round the clock over the phone support"

Dickon Payne

Having completed the A1 Safe and Secure locksmith training course last year i felt i needed to carry out further training for when i eventually start up. The UPVC package is the perfect accompaniment to a trading locksmith.

Den's teaching technique is easy and relaxed. He allows the student take in all the lesson content before moving on to the next stage,twinned with good hand outs and plenty of hands on practice.

A great course, however if Den challenges you to a naam bread eating contest then refuse.

N.Giblin
H.M.Forces