The UK Government has launched a new cyber academy to train students with the skills required to combat cyber-attacks.
The GCHQ-certified Cyber Retraining Academy has been created in partnership with the cybersecurity training firm SANS Institute.
The programme will see students take a 10-week course to give them the tools required to work in the industry.
It will create a group of cyber security professionals who will be capable of protecting the country against major cyber attacks.
The recruits are required to pass several tests before being considered for the boot camp. A multiple-choice quiz will be held prior to submitting an application.
The training for the selected candidates will take place in London from 23 January 2017. The government plans to roll out the programme to other cities in the coming years.
The programme will be funded as part of the government’s £1.9bn National Cybersecurity Strategy, intended at protecting the government, businesses and citizens from online threats and state-sponsored hackers.
UK Minister of State for Digital and Culture Matt Hancock said: “This new academy will give students the skills the nation needs to fight cyber-attacks and help us achieve our ambition of making the UK the safest place to live and do business online.”
SANS Institute UK managing director Stephen Jones said the programme is designed to address the skills gap here and now, condensing cyber training into a matter of weeks.
Read: Where to find the best cyber security skills
“There’s no substitute for recreating a real life environment and here students are exposed to malicious code and practical challenges not seen in other training programmes.
“This is a great opportunity for candidates looking for a secure and exciting career, and one where they can command a very good salary. The industry is only showing signs of growth, as organisations and governments continue to strengthen their cyber defences.”
