The programme develops practical skills across cyber security fundamentals, Security Operations Centre practices, network security, endpoint protection, vulnerability management, security monitoring, incident response, digital forensics, cloud security, identity management, threat intelligence and cyber governance.

The programme is aligned with the Skills England Cyber Security Technician Occupational Standard – OCC0865.

The programme is suitable for individuals seeking employment in cyber security, career changers entering digital occupations and IT support professionals looking to progress into security-focused roles.

It can also support learners who want to build their skills before progressing towards higher-level cyber security occupations.

Applicants must meet the programme eligibility requirements, including age, right to live and work in the UK, funded geographical requirements and attendance commitments.

Previous professional cyber security experience is not required.

Basic computer and digital literacy skills are recommended. Some awareness of networking can be helpful but is not essential.

You will begin with cyber security and networking fundamentals before progressing into security monitoring, vulnerability management, incident response, cloud security and threat intelligence.

You will develop practical skills across network and endpoint security, vulnerability assessment, security monitoring, incident response, digital forensics, Identity and Access Management, cloud security, threat intelligence and Governance, Risk and Compliance.

You will also explore security documentation, professional cyber security practices and responsible use of AI in cyber defence.

The programme combines instructor-led learning with practical demonstrations, guided cyber security laboratories, AI-assisted exercises, independent research, portfolio development and industry scenario-based activities.

This practical approach helps you apply cyber security concepts to realistic situations rather than learning theory alone.

Yes. The programme begins with cyber security fundamentals, the modern threat landscape and networking before progressing into more advanced security topics.

You should have basic computer skills, digital literacy and a commitment to practical learning.

Yes. You will explore how Security Operations Centres operate, including security analyst responsibilities, alert handling, event prioritisation, escalation procedures, incident lifecycles, Blue Team concepts and security monitoring workflows.

The programme can support progression towards entry-level roles including:

Cyber Security Technician
SOC Analyst (Tier 1)
Junior Cyber Security Analyst
IT Security Support Technician
Information Security Assistant
Vulnerability Assessment Technician
Junior Cyber Defence Analyst
Security Operations Administrator
Network Security Technician
Endpoint Security Technician
Security Monitoring Analyst
Cyber Incident Response Assistant

Cyber security skills are relevant across a wide range of sectors including digital and technology, public services, healthcare, financial services, education, advanced manufacturing and defence-related industries.

These skills can support opportunities with employers across York and North Yorkshire.

Yes. Career preparation is included within the programme. You will develop your cyber security portfolio, CV and LinkedIn profile and prepare for technical interviews and employer engagement.

The final stage of the programme focuses particularly on portfolio consolidation, practical assessment and employer readiness.

Applications are assessed against the programme’s eligibility requirements and selection criteria. If your application is rejected, it may be because you do not currently meet one or more of the eligibility requirements, are unable to commit to the programme schedule, or have not achieved the required standard during the application process. 

Common reasons include: 

• You do not meet the programme eligibility requirements. 

• You do not have the legal right to live and work in the UK. 

• You are unavailable to attend the full programme. 

• You are outside the programme’s funded geographical area (where applicable). 

• You did not achieve the required standard during the assessment process. 

No. You will not need to purchase any mandatory software licences or subscriptions to complete the programme. The Skills Bootcamp uses open-source or freely available technologies and free tiers of selected digital, cloud and AI platforms where appropriate. Paid plans may offer additional features, but they are not required to successfully complete the programme.