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Can I Complete a Security Course if I Have a Learning Disability?
Learning Differences and Career Ambitions
At Asset College, we understand that not everyone learns the same way. Many students with learning disabilities have the desire and ability to complete a security course – and go on to build rewarding careers. However, it’s important to recognise that training and working in security involves specific learning and communication requirements that may be more challenging for some.
This article is designed to help you understand whether a security course is right for you, what to expect, and how you can make an informed decision about your training journey.
What Is a Learning Disability?
A learning disability affects how a person processes and understands information. It may impact skills such as reading, writing, memory, comprehension, or communication. Common examples include:
- Dyslexia – difficulty with reading, spelling or interpreting written text
- Dysgraphia – challenges with writing and organising thoughts on paper
- Dyscalculia – difficulty with numbers, patterns, or time concepts
- Auditory processing disorders – struggling to understand verbal instructionss
- Working memory limitations – difficulty holding and using information at the same time
Having a learning disability is not a reflection of intelligence. Many people with learning disabilities are highly capable, especially when the right support is available.
What Are the Learning Requirements in a Security Course?
The Certificate II in Security Operations involves both theory and practical learning. Throughout the course, you’ll be expected to:
- Read and understand laws, policies, and procedures
- Interpret written instructions, signs and diagrams
- Complete incident reports clearly and accurately
- Listen to and follow verbal instructions
- Respond to scenarios and demonstrate communication skills
- Recall and apply information under pressure
These tasks reflect the real-world demands of security work – where communication must be accurate, fast, and clear. Literacy and comprehension are essential for both your training and future job roles.
How a Learning Disability May Impact Your Training
Depending on your individual strengths and challenges, a learning disability may affect:
- Reading and interpreting assessment tasks or legal information
- Completing written reports or statements
- Following multi-step instructions
- Remembering procedures in high-pressure situations
- Verbal communication and clarity when speaking with others
We recognise these barriers – and we’re committed to working with you to explore possible solutions.
What Adjustments Might Be Considered?
At Asset College, we will consider reasonable adjustments to support you in training – provided they do not compromise:
- The integrity of the course or assessment
- The safety of you or others
- The practicality of delivery
- The experience and participation of other students>
Examples of adjustments might include the use of assistive technology, extra time on assessments, or changes to how instructions are delivered. However, we will not alter the competency standards or change the requirements of the qualification.
Each adjustment is considered on a case-by-case basis and only if it is safe, fair, and feasible.
Working Together to Understand Your Needs
Our trainers are experienced, supportive and trained to work with a wide range of learners – but we are not educational psychologists or specialist support providers. Some of our staff have lived experience of learning differences, and we bring that empathy to our teaching. However, we may ask for a Fitness to Participate form to be completed by a professional (such as a doctor or learning support specialist) if we need to better understand your support needs.
Decision-Making Checklist: Is This the Right Course for Me?
Before enrolling, consider the following:
- Am I able to read and understand written materials such as laws, procedures, and signs?
- Can I complete basic written reports in clear, understandable English?
- Do I feel confident following instructions in a group setting?
- Am I able to speak clearly and confidently with unfamiliar people?
- Can I apply what I’ve learned in practical scenarios?
- Have I had advice from a teacher, support worker or medical professional about this course or career path?
If any of these are a concern for you, that doesn’t mean you can’t train – but you may benefit from additional support, planning, or a longer preparation time before enrolling.
Your Strengths, Your Journey
Having a learning disability does not mean you can’t succeed in security training – but it does mean you need to be clear-eyed about the communication and literacy skills the course and industry require. You have the right to make your own decision, and we’re here to help you navigate it respectfully and realistically.
Asset College will do everything we reasonably can to support you – but we’ll also be honest about the challenges you may face and the limits of the support we can offer.
Asset College will do everything we reasonably can to support you – but we’ll also be honest about the challenges you may face and the limits of the support we can offer.
Disclaimer
Please note: Training with Asset College does not guarantee that you will be eligible for a security licence or employment in the industry. Licensing decisions are made by the relevant state or territory regulators. Employers may have their own requirements for fitness for duty, availability, and role suitability. We recommend seeking independent medical and professional advice before making enrolment or career decisions.
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