UK specific- locksmith certification

[streetphantom]

Hello.. im interested in going down the path of getting certifcation, with the view of assisting bailiffs, and people with lost keys. Im very dextrous, and in my engineering apprentiship days, made picks and picked a few locks.

So two questions...
1)
Qualification wise or certification.. which are mickey mouse?, and which are bonafide credible?
I belive city and guilds are a good examining body, particulary with practical engineering qualifications.. but also thare are many different institutions such as the ICL (institute of certified locksmiths) whom charge membership fee's.
(not trying to answer my own question, just waffling/elaborating)

Also..
2)
ICL (as an example) require a police check- my only offence being arrested for Breach of the Peace at an environmental protest
How squeeky clean does your record have to be for membership of a worthwhile institute/guild?


Cheers
Andy

[lockey1963]

That would not hamper you at all.

There is absolutely no valid or recognised certification in the uk locksmith industry, the city and guilds isnt , its done in a day and has no standing at all.
so in short no certification is worthwhile in this industry.

becoming a full ICL member or a full MLA member is however a worthwhile level to attain, as not achieved in days, it takes years and is the nearest thing to a qualification you can get.

[streetphantom]

Thats a great help thanks.
I think i should be able to get the cash together for the new year- to perhpaps do ICL or MLA training..

In the meanwhile i'm going to order the southord 22 peice pick set and get practicing, and see about fabricating some lever lock picks- probaly purchase a lever lock manual/book.
Rome wasn't in a day they say.