The establishment of a Training Centre at MLA Head Office enabled the organisation of a basic training programme in 1992. This has proved very successful and is now renown throughout the locksmithing industry as the only formal locksmithing accreditation.

These courses provide a starting point for newcomers and beginners to the industry through to existing locksmiths who want to learn new skills or update their knowledge. At members request, specialist training may also be arranged.

Having a long history of providing training to locksmiths (either those who are starting off in the trade or those who want to further their knowledge in specific technical areas), the MLA has been awarded the prestigious City & Guilds "Approved Centre" status (No. 027758) enabling the association to offer a tailored City & Guilds award in Basic Locksmithing (No. 1841) which is based on its entry exam.

A PROFESSIONAL LOCKSMITH

There are several skills that are prerequisites to becoming a professional locksmith; excellent manual dexterity, an interest in mechanical and electronic gadgetry, good communications/public relations, maths and possibly some carpentry skills are all assets.

However, locksmithing is one career that will keep your interest because there is a constant need for Continued Professional Development. This is due to the continuous development of new products; these require new perception and techniques on the part of the locksmith. In locksmiths craft is very diverse as there are also many specialist fields; some locksmiths will have a business that covers some of these fields; some businesses will specialise in one area.

Often your local locksmith may be able to offer you work as an “apprentice” (although there is no formal apprenticeships in locksmithing). An other way to gain an understanding of the industry is to attend a BLI General Locksmithing Course at MLA’s Training Centre. The dates of the current courses are printed below and early booking is recommended, as courses always prove very popular. You will be asked complete an application for membership to the British Locksmiths Institute; this enables references to be taken up prior to course commencement.

Places on all courses are strictly limited and bookings, together with appropriate fees, will be dealt with on a first come, first served basis.