Black Onyx Academy Reviews 24

TrustScore 4.5 out of 5

4.7

While we don't verify specific claims because reviewers' opinions are their own, we may label reviews as "Verified" when we can confirm a business interaction took place. Read more

To protect platform integrity, every review on our platform—verified or not—is screened by our 24/7 automated software. This technology is designed to identify and remove content that breaches our guidelines, including reviews that are not based on a genuine experience. We recognise we may not catch everything, and you can flag anything you think we may have missed. Read more

See what reviewers are saying

Rated 5 out of 5 stars

I recently completed a Close Protection course and had a great experience. The instructors were highly experienced, professional, and explained everything clearly. The course balanced theory with rea... See more

Company replied

Rated 5 out of 5 stars

I recently completed the CP Top-Up Course with Black Onyx Academy, and it was outstanding from start to finish! The course was professionally delivered, well-structured, and incredibly informativ... See more

Company replied

Rated 5 out of 5 stars

Having successfully completed the SIA Level 3 Close Protection Course with Black Onyx Academy I am confident to say that I would highly recommend them. They are extremely professional, they have a we... See more

Rated 5 out of 5 stars

Completed my frec 3 course a few weeks ago. Lee Brett is an phenomenal instructor. His knowledge is off the scale . Great course Just completed my CP top up course. Again outstanding delivery of t... See more

Company replied

Company details

  1. Training Centre

Written by the company

Black Onyx Academy provides training in close protection and emergency first aid from a diverse team of former British Royal Navy and Army personnel with over 50 years experience in complex and high-risk environments in both hostile and peacetime operations. Bringing you top-class instruction with Highfield-approved courses, our team will teach you the skills and knowledge surrounding protection and first aid whilst guiding you to excel in these fields. Those who meet and exceed our performance standards in training will be given the opportunity to work directly for Black Onyx Concepts on live projects.


Contact info

4.7

Excellent

TrustScore 4.5 out of 5

24 reviews

5-star
4-star
3-star
2-star
1-star

How this company uses Trustpilot

See how their reviews and ratings are sourced, scored, and moderated.

Companies on Trustpilot aren't allowed to offer incentives or pay to hide reviews. Reviews are the opinions of individual users and not of Trustpilot. Read more

Rated 5 out of 5 stars

This course has been exceptionally…

This course has been exceptionally fruitful, significantly enhancing and motivating us regarding the promising future of the Close Protection (CP) industry. We are deeply grateful to the management, particularly the tutors, for their outstanding delivery of the course material. I wholeheartedly recommend Black Onyx Academy to individuals considering a career as a CP officer in high-profile security.

February 13, 2026
Unprompted review
Black Onyx Academy logo

Reply from Black Onyx Academy

Thank you for your fantastic feedback Kaveni.

We are delighted to hear the course strengthened your confidence in the future of the Close Protection industry and provided real motivation. Your kind words about our tutors and management mean a great deal to the whole team.

We appreciate your recommendation and wish you every success in your CP career. Carry on that consistency.

Rated 5 out of 5 stars

Great

I recently completed a Close Protection course and had a great experience. The instructors were highly experienced, professional, and explained everything clearly. The course balanced theory with realistic practical scenarios, which really built my confidence. Small class sizes meant plenty of hands-on training and personal feedback. I left feeling well-prepared and ready to work in the industry.
Cheers Daz,Dennis,Matt n Steph 👍 🔥

January 26, 2026
Unprompted review
Black Onyx Academy logo

Reply from Black Onyx Academy

Thank you Bati, it was great to have you join us on the recent CP course. Your energy throughout the course is to be commended and very welcomed. You should be proud of yourself of what you have achieved as the whole training team here Black Onyx Academy are of you too. All the best for the future mate and speak soon.

Rated 5 out of 5 stars

Close Protection Course

I recently completed the full Close Protection course with Black Onyx. The staff were friendly, approachable, and highly professional, each bringing valuable real-world experience from within the industry. The course also includes the Door Supervisor qualification, which adds great value. The training location was easy to find, with ample parking and a great learning environment.

May 26, 2025
Unprompted review
Rated 5 out of 5 stars

Level 2 Close Protection Top Up Course

I recently completed the Level 2 Close Protection top up course at Black Onyx Academy, and I must say the experience exceeded my expectations.

The booking process was straightforward and hassle free. I was able to secure my spot with ease, thanks to their user-friendly website and clear instructions.

The pre course materials were excellent, providing a solid foundation and ensuring I was well prepared for the training ahead.

The delivery of the course was highly professional. The instructors were knowledgeable, engaging, and offered practical insights drawn from their extensive experience in the field. They created an interactive learning environment that encouraged questions and discussions, which enhanced the overall experience.

I also appreciated the efficient administrative process. I received my certificate within a week, which was impressive. Additionally, I was promptly notified by the SIA that they had received my results, allowing me to apply for my license renewal without delay.

Overall, I highly recommend Black Onyx Academy for anyone looking for a security training provider. The combination of excellent course materials, professional instruction, and efficient administration makes it a top choice in the industry.

March 3, 2025
Unprompted review
Rated 5 out of 5 stars

Recently completed the CP Top-Up…

I recently completed the CP Top-Up Course with Black Onyx Academy, and it was outstanding from start to finish! The course was professionally delivered, well-structured, and incredibly informative. The instructors were top-notch—knowledgeable, engaging, and highly experienced. A huge thank you to the entire team for their support and expertise.

An added bonus was the free gym passes.

You even get COFFEE & BISCUITS thrown in 👌
Oggy

March 3, 2025
Unprompted review
Black Onyx Academy logo

Reply from Black Onyx Academy

David, Thank you for your course feedback. It was a pleasure having you at the Academy and we look forward to welcoming you back in the future. Glad you enjoyed the biscuits

Rated 5 out of 5 stars

CPO Course with Black Onyx Academy

On the 11th November, 2024 I started my journey with Black Onyx Academy. It is here that I undertook my journey to become a qualified Close Protection Operative. Firstly, I did an intensive First Aid Course (FREC 3) First Responeder and passed.Then on 18th November, 2024 I undertook my intensive 18 day CPO course.

On arrival at the Academy all the team were welcoming, professional and very experienced in what they do and nothing was too much trouble. If you had a query or a problem with the course the team were only to happy to help you sort the problem out and their wealth of knowledge shone through. Well done and thank you to all the team Mark, Carl, Daz and Andy for your support.

Keep up the brilliant work, you are all a credit to your profession and I wouldn't hesitate to recommend you to anyone taking up this career.

November 11, 2024
Unprompted review
Rated 5 out of 5 stars

Excellent Close Protection Course

Having successfully completed the SIA Level 3 Close Protection Course with Black Onyx Academy I am confident to say that I would highly recommend them. They are extremely professional, they have a wealth of experience in the industry and the teaching methodology is second to none.
Thank you Mark, Carl, Daz & Andy for all you’ve done. Nothing but praise!

December 5, 2024
Unprompted review
Rated 5 out of 5 stars

Great course, professional set-up & brilliant instructors!

As a CPO and TL within the private security industry I was keen to find the best value course to top up my license. Black Oynx were recommended to me by a fellow CPO and I am very pleased I decided to go with this company. The pre course briefing was comprehensive and well organised, the course itself was very interesting and relevant with superb instructors. There was a good mix of experience within my training group which meant that all of the lads could learn from eachother. I would thoroughly recommend Black Onyx for any CPD and/or other security industry courses.

June 12, 2024
Unprompted review
Rated 5 out of 5 stars

Recently completed CP Top Up Course…

Recently completed CP Top Up Course with Black Onyx Academy.
The course throughout was excellent, very well delivered and professional. Great team of instructors, which I'd like to thank.
Free gym passes for a awesome gym also!
Overall Excellent

April 15, 2024
Unprompted review
Rated 5 out of 5 stars

Completed my frec 3 course a few weeks…

Completed my frec 3 course a few weeks ago. Lee Brett is an phenomenal instructor. His knowledge is off the scale . Great course
Just completed my CP top up course. Again outstanding delivery of the course, presentation and knowledge , second to none. Carl Manton great instructor. Would highly recommend

March 22, 2024
Unprompted review
Black Onyx Academy logo

Reply from Black Onyx Academy

Thank you Tracy for your kind words, always a pleasure knowing that all of our instructors get the knowledge and experience passed across to all of our students. Thank you

Rated 5 out of 5 stars

FREC Level 3 Course

I have just completed the FREC Level 3 with Black Onyx Academy and it was absolutely fantastic! The course instructor, Lee Brett is a phenomenal instructor and delivered the course perfectly! Lee’s background and hands on experience in this field means that any student taught by him is very fortunate indeed!
The course content was great and I learnt a lot from it, especially having been out of the military for 8+ years. If anyone is considering this course then DO IT!!! I promise you WILL NOT be disappointed!!! I very highly recommend this course!! The level of instruction is second to none!! Lee is a true professional and captivates his audience when teaching. The pace of the course was perfect too. From the moment I walked in the building, the entire team at Black Onyx made me feel welcome and part of the team as it is a very much family environment. Everyone is friendly, approachable and makes you feel at ease and take the time out to speak to you as well as assist you with any questions throughout the course. A nice friendly environment!
I was very fortunate also to have 3 quality students on my course so a special thanks to Tracy, Jamie & Dave it was a real pleasure to meet you guys and I had a great time on course with you all, especially the 5 oatcakes!! 🙈 Haha!

I’m back again on the 29th April on the CP Level 3 Cse which I’m really looking forward to already, can’t wait!

Finally, I’d like to close with a personal “Thank You” to Lee. I thoroughly enjoyed this course and your knowledge is second to none!! You’re a great guy and it was an absolute pleasure and privilege to be taught by you. You have my utmost respect and your experiences are truly mind blowing!!! I really appreciate your time and knowledge and I wish you all the best on your future adventures. Thank you very much. Best wishes, Chris.

February 22, 2024
Unprompted review
Black Onyx Academy logo

Reply from Black Onyx Academy

Chris, The Team from Black Onyx Academy would like to thank you for your kind words and it was such a pleasure having you on one of our many courses. You will gain enormous amounts of knowledge from our Top Instructors over your Level 3 Award for Close Protection Operatives. We look forward to seeing you again soon. We will pass your kind words on to Lee Brett.

Kindest Regards

Black Onyx Academy

Rated 5 out of 5 stars

Lee brett is a very good instructor…

Lee brett is a very good instructor with all the knowledge he possesses that he passes across in his theory and practical, top lad and top frec 3 course, money well spent. Would recommend to anyone who's in the security sector or who is going into the security sector or in general.

February 16, 2024
Unprompted review
Rated 5 out of 5 stars

Recently had to undertake the S.I.A top…

Recently had to undertake the S.I.A top up training to renew my security licence, Was enrolled on the top up training with black onyx academy, they proved to be helpful and professional and helped me with the training package provided that enabled me to pass the security exam.

February 6, 2024
Unprompted review
Rated 5 out of 5 stars

I highly recommend this SIA Top Up…

I highly recommend this SIA Top Up Course with highly experienced instructors who are able to steer you through both the practical and theoretical aspects of the course simply and smoothly in a spacious and comfortable setting.

January 22, 2024
Unprompted review
Rated 5 out of 5 stars

I recently completed the Black Onyx…

I recently completed the Black Onyx Level 2 CP Topup Course, This course is an absolute for anyone looking to enhance their skills in the field.

From the moment I enrolled, I was impressed by the professionalism and organization of the course. The curriculum is meticulously designed, covering a comprehensive range of topics that are crucial for professional development in the industry. The instructors are not only knowledgeable but also skilled at presenting the course concepts in a clear and accessible manner.

One of the standout features of the course is the hands-on approach to learning. The practical exercises and real-world case studies provided valuable insights and helped me apply the theoretical knowledge to practical scenarios. The course strikes a perfect balance between theory and application, ensuring that students not only understand the concepts but can also implement them in real-world situations.

The learning materials provided are top-notch, with well-structured modules, informative videos, and supplementary resources that enhance the overall learning experience.

The instructors are readily available to answer questions and provide guidance, fostering a collaborative learning environment.

Thank you Lee and John.

January 24, 2024
Unprompted review
Rated 5 out of 5 stars

Excellent Organisation

I am delighted to have just completed level 3 Top Up in Close Protection with First Aid at Work with the Black Onyx Academy, which I have thoroughly enjoyed. I would particularly like to thank both Mark and Carl for their expertise in teaching both in an approachable and professional manner. I feel privileged to have been in their company as they are both ex veterans and bring with them a wealth of invaluable knowledge experience. I would highly recommend this academy to any future potential students.💯🙌🏽

January 22, 2024
Unprompted review
Rated 5 out of 5 stars

Black Onyx Academy a brilliant training experience.

Top up CP course completed with Black Onyx Academy over the past three days.
What had the potential to be a drab and boring course was actually a good and interesting course, due to the Instructors and the knowledge they brought to the table, all with the perfect blend of humour, professionalism, put together with the perfect balance of theory and practical lessons, not just death by PowerPoint unlike some other course providers out there.

The staff were always attentive to the students needs, and any queries and questions were always answered, questions were always explained to the students in an understandable manner and the class always felt relaxed.
The facilities were great also, the parking was spot on with lots of spaces and there was constant tea and coffee throughout the day on tap, the staff at Black Onyx were always around for a friendly chat during break times.

Iv been to many training facilities all over the world and I can honestly say that this was a great experience and up there with the best of the best training providers, I have already booked up for another course and will definitely continue my CPD With this training academy.
Thanks very much guys and Iook forward to my next course. 10/10

Regards,
Matt

January 12, 2024
Unprompted review
Black Onyx Academy logo

Reply from Black Onyx Academy

Matt, Thank you for the review. It is always Black Onyx Academy main aim to make the best training environment for all the students that come on our courses. We are glad you had a good experience and look forward to seeing you soon.

Rated 5 out of 5 stars

Top up course

Upon booking my top up course they were very quick in replying to me with the confirmation and joining details.

On arrival at the centre the training team were welcoming and professional. Once the course had started all information for the 3 day course were given to us.

The training team (Carl and Daz) were very knowledgeable and helpful throughout the course and any questions were answered.

In all a very well organised course and company which made it worth booking. I would recommend booking the Top up course with them.

January 8, 2024
Unprompted review
Black Onyx Academy logo

Reply from Black Onyx Academy

Mark, Thank you for your kind words. It was a pleasure having you on the course and we at Black Onyx Academy hope to see you again soon for your future courses. All the best for 2024.

The Trustpilot Experience

Anyone can write a Trustpilot review. People who write reviews have ownership to edit or delete them at any time, and they’ll be displayed as long as an account is active.

Companies can ask for reviews via automatic invitations. Labeled Verified, they’re about genuine experiences.

Learn more about other kinds of reviews.

We use dedicated people and clever technology to safeguard our platform. Find out how we combat fake reviews.

Learn about Trustpilot’s review process.

Here are 8 tips for writing great reviews.

Verification can help ensure real people are writing the reviews you read on Trustpilot.

Offering incentives for reviews or asking for them selectively can bias the TrustScore, which goes against our guidelines.

Take a closer look