At the same time, Bruxelles Formation wanted to create a concrete opportunity for unemployed residents of the Brussels Region. By financing a dedicated preparation pathway, it enabled candidates to discover a profession with real employment prospects before entering the formal recruitment and certification process.

AHLEX brought both needs together in a two-week pre-employment programme. Rather than asking candidates to apply for a role they barely knew, the pathway allowed them to experience the environment, expectations and responsibilities of aviation security first. Throughout the programme, AHLEX acted as the bridge between the candidates and G4S, creating space for honest information, observation, feedback and mutual decision-making.

The first part of the programme introduced participants to the airport ecosystem and the role of G4S at Brussels Airport. They explored the importance of security culture, the difference between procedures and instructions, and the consequences of even small deviations in a safety-critical environment. The reality of 24/7 work, shifts, mobility, uniforms, punctuality and reliability was discussed through concrete situations rather than abstract descriptions.

The learning journey also focused strongly on the human side of the profession. Participants worked on communication, professional posture, vigilance, emotional control, teamwork and the ability to remain calm under pressure. Sessions on human factors, mental load, stress management and wellbeing helped them reflect on their own behaviour and resilience. Realistic scenarios and group exercises encouraged them to connect theory with the situations they could encounter on the job.

After five days, an intermediate assessment evaluated each participant’s potential, motivation and fit with the role. This was not only a selection moment, but also an opportunity to provide direction and constructive feedback. During the second week, participants continued to deepen their understanding of aviation and security while preparing for a final assessment.

The final assessment combined a knowledge test, practical scenarios, oral and written responses and an individual jury interview. This gave G4S a richer view of each candidate than a conventional recruitment interview could provide. It also allowed participants to make an informed decision about whether the profession matched their expectations, abilities and ambitions.

Twenty participants started the programme. The original objective was to identify fifteen candidates with the potential and motivation to continue. By the end of the intensive pathway, however, the connection between candidates and employer had become strong enough for all twenty participants to progress to the formal aviation-security-agent training pathway at Brussels Airport.

The result illustrates the value of pre-employment learning. By combining job discovery, behavioural development, realistic practice and structured assessment, the programme reduced uncertainty for both employer and candidate. G4S gained access to a motivated and better-informed candidate pool, while participants received a genuine opportunity to prepare, demonstrate their potential and take a concrete next step towards employment in aviation security.