Teens embrace cyber gig

Tech-savvy 14 to 17- yearolds took part in five- day programmes at Paisley’s university.

The University of the West of Scotland was the venue for the event by the National Cyber Security Centre (NCSC), a part of GCHQ.

Pupils took part in the free courses – CyberFirst Defenders, Futures and Advanced – which covered a range of topics including how to secure IT networks and how to protect family and friends from online threats.

The NCSC says it is fully committed to defending the whole of the UK against cyber threats and addressing the cyber skills gap to develop and grow talent.

Chris Ensor, NCSC deputy director for Cyber Skills and Growth, said: “There has never been a greater need for young, talented people to get involved in cyber security and the children in Scotland have really taken to the courses.

“We’re delighted that even in the middle of a heatwave during the summer holidays, they have swapped parks for programming.

“As well as equipping young people with cuttingedge skills, CyberFirst courses will help prepare them for a future career and role in making the UK the safest place to live and work online.”

The NCSC was created as part of the UK Government’s £1.9 billion five-year National Cyber Security Strategy ( NCSS), which will make Britain confident, capable and resilient in a fast-moving digital world.

D av i d Lidington, Chancellor of the Duchy of Lancaster and Minister for the Cabinet Office, said: “The CyberFirst courses play a vital role in equipping young people with the skills they need to stay safe online.

“We hope that some will go on and play a crucial role in safeguarding the United Kingdom against cyber threats in the future.

“Cyber security is a serious concern for all citizens of the UK. The Government is committed to developing the capabilities and skills to protect people online, support growth and jobs and stimulate technology across the United Kingdom.”

Young people interested in learning more about cyber security and CyberFirst should visit www.ncsc.gov. uk/information/cyberfirstcourses.