Technology

Posted on November 14, 2018 by staff

Search continues to find future cyber security experts

Technology

A programme designed to inspire teenagers to consider a career in cyber security willc ontinue for a second year following a successful pilot.

More than 23,000 young people aged between 14 and 18 have already taken part in the Cyber Discovery programme, which uses interactive games to teach teenagers about cyber security.

The £20 million scheme, which is being delivered by IT security training firm the SANS Institute, teaches students about subjects including digital forensics, defendign against web attacks and cryptography.

Digital minister Margot James hailed the programme as “a great success so far”.

“We need to inspire young people and show them a career in Cyber Security can be exciting and rewarding, not only to give them more opportunities but also help build a talented workforce for the future,” she added.

“I hope more teenagers will take part and learn that those working in cyber security can come from any walk of life, and have studied any subject.”

The scheme sits within Cyber First, the government’s cyber security skills programme, which is part of the £1.9 billion investment through the National Cyber Security Strategy.

James Lyne, head of research and development for SANS Institute, said: “Based on the success of last year’s Cyber Discovery programme, it’s clear there’s both the appetite and the aptitude to learn about cyber security in the UK.”

Prior to taking part in the programme, Lyne said 40.4 per cent of female students and 35.5 per cent of male students hadn’t even considered a career in cyber security. Those figures dropped to 9.6 per cent and 6.3 per cent respectively.

“We hope to extend this enthusiasm and passion for cyber security across the the UK in year two,” Lyne added.