Now enrolling for the updated 2026 SFJ Awards course — no final exam required when you train with UKPITA. We’re the only UK provider offering the latest syllabus.

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Led by Experience, Driven by Integrity

Our team of former police and military professionals deliver high-quality, real-world training to help you build a credible and successful career in professional investigation.

Real-World Training from Professionals Who’ve Been There

At the UK Professional Investigator Training Academy (UKPITA), we’re committed to raising the standard of professional investigator training in the UK. Our courses are designed and delivered by seasoned professionals with decades of combined experience in law enforcement, surveillance, commercial, and private sector investigations.

We don’t just teach theory. We share what works in the real world.

Meet the Founders

Chris is a retired senior police officer with over 30 years’ experience in criminal investigations. His career includes:

  • Leading complex investigations and multi-agency operations
  • 14 years as a hostage and crisis negotiator, trained alongside UK Special Forces
  • Assisted with the delivery of the Metropolitan Police’s Negotiator Course at Hendon
  • Serving as a Tactical Firearms Commander, directing covert and overt armed operations where surveillance was often key

Chris also holds an MSc in Police Leadership and Management from the University of Leicester. As Centre Manager, he oversees course design, administration, and quality assurance — ensuring every student receives a first-class learning experience.

Mike served in the Royal Green Jackets before launching his own private investigation business, which he later sold after years of success. His career has included:

  • Founding and operating multiple PI agencies across the UK:
    Cotswold Private Investigations, Somerset Private Investigations, and Red Dragon Private Investigations
  • Working across a broad spectrum of private investigations
  • Authoring the companion book to the course: So You Want To Be A Private Investigator
  • Drawing on both military and civilian investigative experience to guide the next generation of investigators

Mike’s practical insights are embedded throughout the course content, helping students understand not only how to investigate but how to run a successful PI business.

Our Training Team

All of our instructors are former police officers, selected for their:

  • Extensive operational experience in specialist roles
  • Professional teaching qualifications
  • Commitment to ethical, high-quality training

This ensures that every student benefits from real-world experience, supported by structured, competency-based learning.

Backed by Accreditation & Quality Assurance

We’re proud to be a registered centre for the SFJ Awards Level 3 Certificate for Professional Investigators, accredited by SFJ Awards, a nationally recognised awarding organisation regulated by Ofqual.

In addition to our accredited qualification, our core skills workshops and learning materials are accredited by The CPD Group and independently listed on The CPD Register, providing further reassurance of the quality and professional value of our training.

Our course content and delivery are regularly reviewed through external quality assurance processes to ensure we continue to meet the high standards expected by both accrediting bodies.

Supporting Your Next Step

We believe in preparing our students for more than just passing an assessment. We prepare you to:

  • Operate ethically and professionally in the commercial and private sector
  • Launch and manage your own agency
  • Transition confidently from military, police, or civilian backgrounds
  • Become part of a supportive and trusted alumni network

Whether you’re switching careers or starting fresh, UKPITA is here to give you the tools, training, and support to succeed.

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