UK government launches ‘boot camp’ initiative to form anti-hacker squad

It has been announced that the Government has launched an X Factor-style boot camp training initiative which has been designed to produce and deliver more skilled cyber security experts as part of the newly unveiled National Cyber Security Strategy.

Those applying for the Cyber Retraining Academy course do not need to have any previous cyber expertise, however they are looking for applicants with a natural aptitude. Those that are interested can undertake an online quiz to determine their suitability for the course. Click on this link to take the test, you only have 5 questions to answer and if you answer enough correctly you are then invited to register:- https://www.cyber-academy.co.uk/pre-application

Experts from the SANS Institute will deliver the training, graduates on the course will deal with everything from overcoming malware attacks to hacking into flying drones.

Applications can be made now and then the training will take place in London from 23^rd of January 2017. Apparently the aim of this programme is to roll it out to others cities in the years ahead.

Matt Hancock is the minister of state for digital and culture, he has explained that speed is of the essence in lessening UK cyber skills shortage, the course is going on for 10 weeks and will cover two years of cyber training in that time.

“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,” he said.

“The programme is integral to our ambitious skills plan, and will fast track new talent into this competitive, exciting and rewarding field which last year contributed almost £22bn to the UK economy.”

Stephen Jones is the SANS Institute UK managing director, he has added that the intensity of the course is fitting because it will make the relevant candidates understand and realise the ever-changed world that we live in with reference to cyber threats being faced in the UK.

“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,” he said.

For candidates that complete this course they will have strong job prospects promised by Stephen Jones, this is due to the importance of cyber security to all of the UK.

“This is a great opportunity for candidates looking for a secure and exciting career, and one where they can command a very good salary,” he said.

“The industry is only showing signs of growth as organisations and governments continue to strengthen their cyber defences.”