WIREDGOV

Children in Gloucester will benefit from an innovative cyber environment in one of the NCSC's latest Cyber School Hubs.

School children will experience new ways of learning in an innovative cyber environment at one of the National Cyber Security Centre’s (NCSC) first Cyber School Hubs to engage the next generation cyber-skilled professionals.

The ground-breaking initiative at Beaufort Co-operative Academy, Gloucester, is equipped with cutting edge technology including 3D printers, virtual reality and an ethical hacking environment for students to develop their understanding of cyber security.

This facility is unique to Beaufort Co-operative Academy who will be at the forefront of improving Cyber and Computing education.

Chris Ensor, NCSC Deputy Director for Skills and Growth, said:

“Launching this innovation facility is an exciting step to support local schools”

“The site at Beaufort Co-operative is forward-thinking, housing some of the latest technology and a one of its kind environment for students to experience.”

“The facility is designed to encourage a new approach to teaching and learning in alternative environments to develop the next generation of tech-savvy, cyber professionals.”

Through the new creative facility, the NCSC are looking to explore the concept of what an innovative space and the different ways of working that it supports has on the impact of Computing and Cyber education within a school.

The space will also be used by students not only from Beaufort Co-operative Academy, but also from feeder junior schools and other local secondary schools.

Computer Science teachers will be running joint after-school Cyber clubs to help motivate, inspire and engage more students, hoping to encourage them to select Computer Science at both GCSE and A-level.

The innovative facility will also be used to enable industry supporters to provide support for activities to both students and teachers to help educate on the opportunities that exist within the Cyber Security and Computing industry.

David Bishop, Principal at Beaufort Co-operative Academy, said:

“Everyone at Beaufort Co-operative Academy is extremely excited to be a part of this cutting-edge project with our partners from the NCSC.

“Their input will provide a first-class environment for students to develop their skills as well as industry leading expertise and knowledge.

“These facilities will encourage more students to undertake courses in these areas and begin to produce the talent of the future.”