You could contact local locksmith companies to see if they're prepared to take you on as a trainee.

You'll find it helps if you have good practical skills, and some experience of carpentry, mechanical work or electronics.

You can do training courses with private training providers or a professional body like the Master Locksmiths Association. Courses are available from beginner's level to advanced.

Do your research before signing up for a course to make sure it's the right one for you.

You'll need:

• the ability to use, repair and maintain machines and tools
• to be thorough and pay attention to detail
• customer service skills
• knowledge of public safety and security
• patience and the ability to remain calm in stressful situations
• analytical thinking skills
• persistence and determination
• the ability to work well with your hands
• to be able to carry out basic tasks on a computer or hand-held device

You'll need to:

• have a full driving licence
• pass background checks

As a locksmith, you will:

• assess jobs and give quotes for times and costs
• remove old or broken locks
• install new locks to doors and windows, and cut keys
• fit combination locks and timing devices to safes
• sell, service and repair locks and other security devices
• repair locks on motor vehicles
• respond to call-outs from people locked out of their premises or after break-ins
• give advice to customers about home and business security
• keep up to date with security technology

You could work at a client's business or at a client's home.

Your working environment may be outdoors in all weathers and you'll travel often.