NCC Group signs up to government-backed CyberFirst programme

North West cyber security business NCC Group is taking new steps to encourage more young people to consider a career in the industry.

The company, which is headquartered in Manchester, will now offer student bursaries as part of the government-backed CyberFirst initiative.

Launched by GCHQ’s National Cyber Security Centre (NCSC), the programme was set up to equip secondary school-age students with the tools and knowledge to operate securely online while highlighting the career options available.

Under the initiative, the CyberFirst team will offer free activity days and residential courses for youngsters from Year 8 to Year 13, leading to the opportunity to apply for a bursary of £4,000 per year of undergraduate study at university.

Ollie Whitehouse, NCC Group technical director, said: “We are proud to be supporting GCHQ’s latest CyberFirst initiative, especially as the scheme aligns with our gender diversity strategy.

“We hope it will inspire a new generation of young people into a career in cyber.”

He added: “The skills shortage in cyber security is evident for all to see so it couldn’t have come at a better time.”

The deputy director for NCSC skills and growth, Chris Ensor, commented: “This is the first time government and industry have come together to make a concerted attempt to inspire and support a whole generation of young people to take up a role in cyber security.”

Last week, NCC Group announced the launch of a new office in Singapore.