On May 1, 2026, the Joint Terrorism Analysis Centre (JTAC) raised the UK National Threat Level from SUBSTANTIAL to SEVERE. This change means that a terrorist attack is now considered highly likely.

As a Higher Education (HE) apprentice, you occupy a unique position, splitting your time between your employer’s workplace and your academic studies. While there is no cause for alarm, there is a clear requirement for increased vigilance. Our priority is your safety and well-being, whether you are in centre, in the office, or working remotely.

Understanding the Change

The decision to move to SEVERE follows a period of heightened tension, including recent incidents in London and a recorded increase in extremist activity across various ideologies, including both Islamist and Extreme Right-Wing Terrorism.

While the government stresses that there is no specific intelligence regarding a threat to any single institution, the “Severe” rating is a UK-wide alert designed to ensure that security services, businesses, and the public are in a state of readiness.

Staying Safe: Your Dual Responsibility

As an apprentice, you are part of two professional environments. We encourage you to take the following steps:

1. At Your Workplace: Check in with your employer’s security lead. Familiarize yourself with their specific evacuation and lockdown procedures. Many companies will be reviewing their “Business Continuity Plans” this week; as an apprentice, being proactive in these discussions is a great way to demonstrate professional responsibility.
2. In Your Studies: If you are attending an exam, in centre sessions or workshops, ensure you are up to date with our emergency exit routes and safety protocols.
3. In Public & Travel: You may notice an increased police presence, particularly at major transport hubs. Allow extra time for travel and remain observant.

Action Counters Terrorism (ACT)

The official advice for all citizens remains “Alert, not Alarmed.” The UK government recommends the following protocols:

• RUN, HIDE, TELL: This is the primary guidance for an active incident.
  • RUN to a place of safety. This is a better option than surrendering or negotiating.
  • HIDE if there is no safe route. Remember to silence your phone and turn off vibrate.
  • TELL the police by calling 999 only when it is safe to do so.
• SCaN (See, Check and Notify): If you see something that doesn’t feel right, an unattended bag or someone behaving unusually, trust your instincts and report it to security or the police.

Mental Health and Community Resilience

We recognise that news of an increased threat level can be unsettling. Our community is built on mutual respect and inclusion. During times of heightened national security, it is vital that we continue to support one another and reject any attempts to sow division within our cohort.

If you feel anxious or would like to discuss how this affects your work-study balance, our Learning & Development Coaches and the Safeguarding Team are available for confidential chats.

Essential Resources & Links

Official Government & Security Analysis

• MI5 – Current Threat Level: The authoritative source for current national security status and history.
• ProtectUK: The central hub for counter-terrorism guidance, offering free resources for businesses and individuals.
• GOV.UK – Protective Security for Education: Specific guidance for higher education providers on keeping learners safe.

Training & Tools

• ACT Awareness e-Learning: A free, 45-minute interactive course that provides vital safety information. We highly recommend all apprentices complete this as part of their professional development.
• Anti-Terrorist Hotline: Call 0800 789 321 or report non-emergency suspicious activity online.

Remember: Your safety is a collective effort. By staying informed and vigilant, we ensure that our learning environment remains a secure space for everyone.

If you have any immediate concerns regarding your safety at work or on campus, please contact your Program Lead or the Designated Safeguarding Lead (DSL) immediately.