GC supports Cheltenham to become cyber capital of the UK

Last month Cheltenham Borough Council set out its aim to make Cheltenham the cyber capital of the UK in its three-year corporate strategy. In efforts to support this aim, Gloucestershire College (GC) is now working with Cyber Security Associates and other expert digital security businesses in the county to provide qualifications to train competent Cyber Security Technologists.

The UK has one of the most vibrant digital economies in the world; however, there is not currently the cyber security skills base to match. Both the government and private sector are affected by shortage in skills, and there is a need to nurture an aptitude for jobs that require deep technical expertise.

Recognising this shortage in digital skills, the college is working to provide businesses with access to cutting-edge information security solutions. Partnered with The Chartered Institute for IT (BCS), GC offers digital apprenticeships such as Cyber Security Technologist, which includes industry certifications taught through in college knowledge modules and a range of relevant work based projects.

Dave Woodfine, Director at Cyber Security Associates, recognises the importance of filling the skills gap. He said: “Cyber Security Associates (CSA) places a huge emphasis on retaining local talent within Gloucestershire, that’s why we’re delighted to be supporting Gloucestershire College and their cyber security apprenticeship programme. We’re excited to be helping to develop the future cyber professionals that the industry so desperately needs.” 

Andy Bates, Chief Financial Officer at Gloucestershire College, agrees:“We are pleased to support Cyber Security Associates with our digital apprenticeships accredited by the British Computing Society (BCS). These new qualifications are designed by employers for employers, and are suitable for cyber security organisations as well as in-house teams responsible for protecting their organisation’s systems and people against cyber threats. We offer a range of digital apprenticeships including Cyber Security Technologist, Software Developer, Software Tester, Infrastructure Technician and Network Engineer, and are thrilled to develop the cyber skills needed in the county.”

For more information on Cyber Security apprenticeships at Gloucestershire College please visit: www.gloscol.ac.uk/cyber-security