Social Investment
Cornerstone
A social investment to increase the diversity of teams accessing venture capital support in tech.
Cybersecurity remains a much in demand specialism – but there is a significant shortage of talent with many organisations struggling to recruit for roles and a predicted 33% growth in the cyber security job market to 2030. This is compounded by a lack of awareness among young people of the varied opportunities for well paid and rewarding careers in the cyber sector.
The CyberHorizons programme aims to build students’ cyber skills, excite them about career opportunities in the sector and provide advice on navigating the pathways into jobs. Through the pilot programme, students from the North East of England will benefit from 4 weeks of intensive programming over summer 2025. The support will include employability workshops covering topics such as workplace etiquette, goal setting, and behaviour expectations, before participants have two weeks of hands-on cyber experience, working with industry professionals on real world cyber projects, plus on-site company visits. The programme concludes with a one week in-person ‘CyberDefenders’ course delivered by CyberFirst instructors (covering topics such as common cyber security threats; applying cyber defences; constructing and securing a network; managing digital footprints), and post-placement mentorship throughout Year 13, including on UCAS applications, CV writing, personal statements and interview technique.
The Hg Foundation is providing a £90,000 grant to fund the pilot. The programme leverages CyberFirst's track record of promoting cybersecurity opportunities to young people, and RTC North's experience of delivering STEM programmes to schools in the region. If successful, it is hoped the pilot could provide a blueprint for an expanded programme.
“In our day to day work we see first-hand the critical importance of cybersecurity and what a rewarding and fascinating career it is. But lots of businesses struggle to fill vacancies and many young people do not understand the range of opportunities on offer in the sector. So we are delighted to have helped develop this new initiative, working with expert partners and regional employers to build the next generation of cyber talent.”
“CyberFirst provides opportunities for young people, particularly those from disadvantaged backgrounds, to pursue their interests in technology and Cyber Security. Since 2015, the National Cyber Security Centre has funded 1,399 aspiring cyber security professionals through university, and this pilot initiative between CyberFirst, RTC North, and the Hg Foundation offers aspiring students from the North East a fantastic opportunity to take their first step in to cyber.”