The government’s free learning platform, Cyber Explorers, is set to play a crucial role in developing cyber skills among secondary school students as the new school year approaches. With the cybersecurity industry being recognized as one of the world’s largest markets, there is a growing demand for professionals in this field.
Since its establishment in early 2022, Cyber Explorers has already attracted over 2,000 schools nationwide, with 50,000 students having access to the platform. Aimed at 11-14-year-olds, the platform focuses on the learning objectives of Key Stage 2 and Key Stage 3, providing interactive activities, quizzes, and scenario tasks to enhance students’ cyber, computing, and digital skills.
Teachers have expressed their delight at utilizing Cyber Explorers in their classrooms. Karen Morris, a Year 8 teacher at Stroud High School, praised the platform for engaging students in an effective and creative way. The fact that it is free makes it even more fantastic.
Cyber Explorers is designed to progress students up to Key Stage 4, where they can further their growth and opportunities through computer science courses. The platform also offers informative programs hosted by leading companies like Amazon, demonstrating how to effectively utilize cyber skills.
As Britain holds a prominent position in the cybersecurity landscape, with a worth of £10.5 billion, the government is keen on nurturing future talent in this sector. Cyber Minister, Viscount Camrose, emphasized the need for accessibility to the cyber sector and creating opportunities for young people to kick-start exciting careers in cyber.
Government research from last year revealed a cybersecurity skills gap in roughly half of all companies, with a 30% increase in cybersecurity job postings. However, the research also highlighted a lack of diversity in the industry, particularly in senior positions.
Chris Ensor, Deputy Director of the National Cyber Security Centre (NCSC) for Cyber Growth, stressed the importance of initiatives like Cyber Explorers in uncovering cyber talent and supporting young people in exploring career opportunities in the thriving cyber industry.
Cyber Explorers is part of the government’s CyberFirst program, led by the NCSC, which aims to develop under-25-year-olds from diverse backgrounds by providing support, experience, and opportunities to learn relevant skills.
By nurturing future generations of cybersecurity professionals through initiatives like Cyber Explorers and CyberFirst, the government hopes to address the skills shortage in the industry and promote diversity in senior positions. This will not only benefit the cybersecurity sector but also bolster Britain’s digital economy.