Highland Schools Encouraged to Explore CyberFirst Opportunities

Highland schools are being encouraged to embrace the future of technology and cyber security by engaging with the CyberFirst Schools programme.

On Monday 8th September, Darren Brown, Faculty Principal Teacher of IT at Inverness High School, hosted an online meeting for IT teachers across the region, supported by Developing the Young Workforce (DYW) Inverness & Central Highland and Ginger Cat Cyber Security, a consultancy led by Colin Topping. The session offered teachers an introduction to CyberFirst and the pathway to becoming a CyberFirst-accredited school.

CyberFirst is a UK Government–backed outreach and education initiative, designed to inspire young people from all backgrounds to consider future-focused careers in areas such as cyber security, artificial intelligence, quantum computing, data, and software development.

During the session, Darren showcased the range of free teaching materials available through CyberFirst, highlighting how simple the application process is for schools to become involved. The programme provides ready-to-use resources, from S1 level through to the NPA Cyber Security Level 6 qualification, making it relevant not just for computing staff, but also for business, IT, digital literacy and PSE teachers.

Darren said, “CyberFirst is a UK-wide initiative aiming to bring cyber security education into all schools from upper primary to SQA qualifications in the senior school. There are ready-made, fun and interactive lessons with materials for all ages, with systems running professional-level cyber security software available for free for seniors, as well as funded pathways into further education and industry. Schools can contact me for a chat, a visit, and any support in applying to be a CyberFirst school.”

The CyberFirst Schools programme also depends on strong support from industry.

Colin Topping, Owner and Consultant at Ginger Cat Cyber Security, encouraged local businesses to play their part, “CyberFirst Schools thrive when supported by passionate practitioners. I call on cyber security professionals to step up, connect, and become STEM Ambassadors, creating a trusted bridge between industry expertise and the next generation of talent.”

DYW Inverness & Central Highland is proud to support this initiative as it opens up exciting opportunities for young people across the region.

Liz Fletcher, Programme Lead at DYWICH, said, “Digital skills are vital to the future of the Highland economy. By helping schools access CyberFirst resources and linking them with industry partners, we can equip young people with the knowledge, skills and confidence to thrive in technology-driven careers. We’re delighted to see teachers across the region showing real enthusiasm for this programme.”

DYWICH is calling on local businesses and cyber professionals to support schools as they explore CyberFirst. If you’d like to get involved by providing insight into industry projects or becoming a STEM Ambassador, please get in touch by emailing us at info@dywich.co.uk