Coleg Cambria ‘Gold Standard’ award for inspiring next generation of cyber security experts

The CyberFirst Gold Standard has been awarded to Coleg Cambria for their work inspiring the next generation of cyber security experts.

The North East Wales based college received the award as part of the National Cyber Security Centre (NCSC) CyberFirst Schools initiative which aims to address the UK’s cyber skills gap.

Sue Price, Coleg Cambria’s Principal, said: “We are delighted to have achieved the CyberFirst Gold Award in conjunction with the National Cyber Security Centre.

“This is a significant achievement for Coleg Cambria, recognising the great work the team are doing in a critical area that is growing in strategic significance and importance to the economy.

“Having this award will give employers and our learners confidence the qualifications they are achieving are robust and will support them in their future careers.”

Gold, silver and bronze awards have been awarded to 14 schools and colleges across the country in total, with Coleg Cambria receiving the top accolade.

It shows they have demonstrated a range of work engaging pupils, including lunchtime coding clubs and running projects where they link computing to medical sciences as well as more.

Chris Ensor, NCSC Deputy Director for Cyber Growth, said: “Congratulations to all the schools and colleges that have been awarded CyberFirst Schools status for their first-rate approaches to teaching cyber security skills.

“It is inspiring to see the wide range of opportunities being offered to pupils and I’m delighted to welcome the schools to our growing community from around the UK.

“Through the CyberFirst Schools initiative, the NCSC continues to work with schools and local communities to inspire the next generation of cyber security experts.”

Matt Warman, Minister for Digital Infrastructure, added: “The country needs a new generation of talented tech experts to protect our online spaces.

“Ensuring everyone has the digital skills they need to thrive in an increasingly tech-fuelled economy is central to our efforts to build back better from the pandemic.”

Schools and colleges considering an application should also know the National Digital Exploitation Centre (NDEC) has pledged an offer of extra support.

They say they want ‘as many Welsh schools and colleges to benefit from this brilliant scheme.’

Applications for the CyberFirst Schools certification close on Friday June 18.

For more information, visit www.ncsc.gov.uk/cyberfirst.

Also visit www.cambriaold.ac.uk for the latest news from Coleg Cambria.