WIREDGOV

Teenagers are gaining a fascinating insight into the world of cyber security as they take part in a GCHQ cyber security summer school in Wales.

• Welsh pupils to attend GCHQ’s free CyberFirst summer courses
• ‘CyberFirst’ programme in Cardiff will introduce 14 to 17 year olds to cyber security
• Registration of interest for CyberFirst bursaries and degree apprenticeships is now open.

Teenagers are gaining a fascinating insight into the world of cyber security as they take part in a GCHQ cyber security summer school in Wales.

This week, the National Cyber Security Centre (NCSC), a part of GCHQ, began delivering three five-day programmes in Cardiff for 14 to 17-year olds.

Pupils in Wales will have the chance to take part in the free courses - CyberFirst Defenders, Futures and Advanced – which cover a range of topics including setting up a home network, creating strong passwords and social engineering and fraud.

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

‘The CyberFirst courses are an exciting and engaging way for young people to learn about cyber security’

‘The pupils who have taken part have had the opportunity to learn essential cyber security skills that they can use to protect themselves and their families’

“The NCSC is fully committed to developing and growing the next generation of cyber security experts to help make the UK the safest place to live and work online”

Working with training experts QA and education charity, The Smallpiece Trust, 1,150 free CyberFirst places have been offered to 14 to 17 year olds across the UK, giving them an insight into the tools, knowledge and skills required for a future career in cyber security.

The CyberFirst programme also offers bursaries for young people interested in studying cyber security at university. The bursary offers undergraduates £4,000 per year financial assistance and paid cyber security work experience to help kick start their career in cyber. Registration of interest for the 2019 bursary scheme is now open.

Those interested in learning more about cyber security and CyberFirst courses should visit www.ncsc.gov.uk/information/cyberfirst-courses. Further information about the bursary scheme can also be found by clicking on 'Latest Vacancies' here: https://www.gchq-careers.co.uk/index.html.