CyberFirst

CyberFirst is a pivotal part of the UK government’s National Cyber Security Programme, helping young people explore their passion for tech by introducing them to the world of cyber security.

Each activity is designed to give talented young people the technical skills, practical experience and industry exposure they need to start their journey toward cyber-related careers and opportunities, preparing them for a possible role in making Britain the safest place to live and work online.

It’s hard to find an element of life that technology doesn’t touch. From gaming and chatting with friends to shopping or seeing a doctor, we’re constantly sharing our personal data. Data that needs protecting.

Attacks on the digital infrastructure we rely on are increasing every day, both in terms of frequency and sophistication. So, stopping them means being smarter, more inquisitive and quicker to adapt. That’s where you come in.

CyberFirst is about using your passion for technology to shape the cyber security community of tomorrow. You don’t have to be a coder or secret software developer – we’re looking for people from all walks of life and backgrounds. Live streamers, Instagrammers, vloggers, gamers – whatever your thing is – it’s your enthusiasm we’re interested in.

To learn all kinds of practical insights into digital safety and how everyday technology really works, explore the activities below to see which is the right one for you.

Interested in exploring and expanding what you know about online security? CyberFirst’s programme of free face-to-face courses could be just the thing to develop essential skills.

The CyberFirst bursary scheme is led by the National Cyber Security Centre (NCSC) and aims to support and prepare undergraduates for a career in cyber security.

NCSC partners with other government departments and selected industry, offer students £4,000 per year and paid cyber skills training to help you kick start a career in cyber security.

Each summer you will either: carry out work experience with cyber security teams in government or industry, for which you’ll be paid £250 per week plus accommodation. Or, offered paid cyber security training over an 8-week period known as CyberFirst Academy.

You can find out more and register on the Government Communications Headquarters (GCHQ) website.

The courses, designed and developed by QA in collaboration with the NCSC, offer over 2500 free places to 12 to 17-year-old students annually at universities and colleges across the UK. In 2019 the CyberFirst courses were formally recognised by The Scottish Qualification Authority who credit rated them comparable to GSCE level, against their robust and rigorous educational framework.

If you have any questions about CyberFirst courses or other CyberFirst activities or are interested in supporting any events, please get in touch with us.

The CyberFirst team are always looking for passionate cyber security enthusiasts to help us inspire the next generation of cyber professionals.

If you are interested in any of the roles listed below and would like to apply, please get in touch with us for further information at CyberFirstAdministration@qa.com