The UK’s first civilian cyber security training camps have been set up at the Defence Academy in Shrivenham and Glasgow Caledonian University.
The camps, run by Cyber Security Challenge UK, will allow amateurs to gain knowledge about cyber defence from experienced professionals from Serco, the Scottish Police and the National Crime Agency, and build up their skills for a career in the industry.
Activities at the cyber camps started August 28 and last until September 1.
Cyber Security Challenge UK CEO Stephanie Daman said that this is the first time the UK has offered amateur cyber defenders the chance to see what it is really like to work as a professional in the sector.
"The pilot camp we ran last year in Lancaster was so warmly received by everyone involved, professionals and candidates alike, that formalising the programme this year into two fully fledged cyber camps was an easy decision," Daman said.
"The camps present a unique opportunity to work with talented amateurs and show them how exciting the cyber security profession can be.
"I know that all those who join us at either camp will have a great time and learn so much about a sector crying out for more people with their skills."
As part of activities, candidates at the Defence Academy would assume the role of a cyber team positioned abroad to offer security to a military-supported relief effort.
The scenario involves an environmental disaster off the coast of a imaginary Indian Ocean island, Sans Serriffe, due to a crash involving an oil tanker.
Candidates will also asked to safeguard an independent command and control facility, which is being developed, from pirates and prearranged criminal gangs involved in the sinking of the tanker.
In the interim, cyber camp attendees at Glasgow Caledonian University will initially begin with a business-related cyber challenge, followed by a Dragons’ Den-style innovation contest run, which would involve creating a security product and set up a business.
Serco space & national security director Graham Beaver said that cyber security is integral to Serco’s global business and as a skill has become instrumental, and so the ability to recruit from a pool of the best talent in this field is crucial to business.
"We understand the importance of cyber security and the risk it poses to businesses, and by supporting the challenge, we hope to recognise and recruit the leading specialists in this field," Beaver said.
