THE LOCKSMITH TRAINING COMPANY

"Please take the time to read through the following FAQ's. We want you to be sure that becomming a Locksmith is right for you, and for you to understand it's process. We do not want you to have false expectations which can be the case from companies giving  exaggerated and misleading website content."

 Q: Will I learn enough in just two days to start working as a Locksmith?

A: This is a yes & no question! Yes, you will be able to pick and manipulate a good range and the most popular locks, and have a good understanding of these locks, and the trade itself, but No, you will not at this stage be able to call yourself a locksmith, but you will have the skills to do basic lock opening work. Confused......read on. Our two-day course will give you the foundation needed to becomming a Locksmith, it will not however make you a 'Locksmith'. Over the two days you will have opened the types of locks in most common use today, and gained an understanding of how and why these locks can be picked and manipulated using various opening techniques. There are of course hundreds of different locks out there and it would be impossible for us to show you them all. Attending the course will get you off on the right foot, though we have to stress that you will still have a vast amount to learn, and this takes time, commitment, and a will to achieve. Having gained the skills and understanding you will have been shown on the two-day course, you will be able to improve your knowledge and techniques in your own time and at your own pace. This is why we run the Advanced courses so you can learn at a sensible and realistic pace, and to also suit your budget.

 Q: Some Locksmith training companies offer a five-day course?

A: You will learn the same on our two-day course, as any five-day course on offer. In fact we cover more types of lock than many of the five-day courses availiable. The main difference is that each module is condensed down, giving maximum ‘Hands on’ training, as opposed to stretching each module out, this can become 'mind numbing'!. The theory side is covered throughout the course and there is no written work required as all the information you need is contained in your course manuall. This then allows you to leave the course and practice your skills at your own pace and in your own time. It also saves you ££££’s.

 Q: Can I visit the workshop before I decide to book a course?

A: Yes. Anyone thinking of attending a course is welcome to come and visit us at our training workshop. You are also more than welcome to bring along some locks of your own so you can see first hand these being picked. Just give us a call to arrange a visit.

 Q: Where will I get my work from when I first start my business?

A: Any new business takes time to grow and become established. Most new Locksmiths tend to be mobile based and therefore do not have the advantage of shop based business's who can profit from passing trade. Phone books for instance are only published once a year so it may be a case of having to wait a while to advertise in these. It is simply a case of letting people know that you are there, work will not initially come to you! Business cards, flyers, and local newspaper advertising are cheap & simple ways to get your business noticed. Websites are a good form of advertising and needn't be expensive to set up. How you get your business noticed is a matter of choice, but we will show you what we know works, from a Locksmiths perspective.

  Q: How do I start my business?

A: As part of our Two-day course you will recieve a comprehensive manual covering everything you have learnt during the course. Also within the manual is general Business start up advice and information. This covers subjects such as: Registering as self employed, Advertising, Insurance, Vehicles, and record keeping. Their are also many organisations offering business start up advice which is totally free, as well as the wealth of information available on the internet. Don't waste money paying for business advice!

 Q: Some Locksmith Training Companies offer work from third parties after completing their course?

A: This is commonly known as sub-contracting, and can be a good way of getting work straight away whilst perhaps waiting for your own advertising to get under way. Take a look through the yellow pages and you will see numerous national Locksmith companies. They do not do the work they get themselves as they are merely a call centre who will then pass the work on to local Locksmiths who are registered with them. It is simply a matter of choice if you choose to do this type of work. We are happy to pass on details of companies who offer sub-contracting though we do not make promises of work. Island Locks beleive that by having a good business plan, support from ourselves, and promoting your business positivley, is the best way of obtaining your own jobs. The more work you put into your business, the more success you will have.

 Q: What qualifications do I need to trade as a Locksmith, and do I have to join an Association? 

A: Currently there are no qualifications required to trade as a Locksmith. Though some Locksmith associations offer there own ‘qualifications’ and ‘standards of practice’ joining should be thought about carefully. There are numerous associations available for Locksmiths to join, so choosing one can be difficult. Some training companies offer membership to certain locksmiths associations, and some associations offer training services. Be aware also, that companies offering membership to associations after completing a course, are actually the associations! It is simply a matter of choice if you join an association, and if you think this would benefit your business.

 Q: What if I need additional help or advice after attending a course?

A: After you have been on our course we will back you up with on going 24hr help and support for whatever reason. If you’re stuck on a job, or if you need to source a lock or tool, we will always just be a phone call away. This is available for as long as you need us, and has no cost or time restriction attached. You are also more than welcome to come back at any time and refresh your skills at our workshop, and this again is totally free.

 Q: How do I choose the right Training company?

A: Choosing a company to train with can be hard and confusing. Comparing companies and seeing exactly what you get for your money is a must. Course cost, location, overnight stays etc are always a consideration, but should not dictate your choice. Opting for a particular company on these grounds can be costly. Most importantly, choose a company you are comfortable with and feel will give you the most for the investment your making for your future.

 Q: Why should I choose Island Locks?

A: All our courses are run by full time trading locksmiths, who use the techniques you will be taught, on a day-to-day basis. We are dedicated in training you to the highest standards and ethics, and being soleley a Locksmith company, we have no other vested interests. Our policy is to always, where possible, use non-destructive opening methods, and ensure that you have the skills necessary to use these methods upon completion of the course. This we guarantee.

 Q: Why is Island Locks a member of an American Association?

A: We are active members of ALOA - Associated Locksmiths of America as we believe that anyone in the locksmith trade should work to a code of ethics. Though this an American association, membership is worldwide and membership numbers are greater than any other association or trade body. As members we are obliged to work to a recognised code of ethics which we strongly believe in. Joining any association is always though a matter of choice. 

 Q: Can I get financial help to train as a Locksmith?

A: Yes. We are a registered Locksmith training company working with the LSC - Learning & Skills council. They are able to assist you in obtaining a CDL - Career development loan, to enable you to attend a course. Click here for more Info.

 Q: I have other questions?

A: Just give us a call and we’ll be happy to answer them.