A new scheme to help develop the next generation of cybersecurity experts and protect the UK against sophisticated, evolving threats has been announced by Defence Secretary Gavin Williamson.

The Cadets CyberFirst programme, which will be delivered by the Ministry of Defence cadet organisations and GCHQ’s National Cyber Security Centre (NCSC), will train more than 2,000 cadets every year and help cultivate the next generation of cyber leaders.

Defence Secretary Williamson announced the initiative during National Cadet Week celebrations.

The Next Generation

Over £1 million will be invested in the programme each year, the government says, and will give cadets the opportunity to learn how to protect web-connected systems from cyber attacks. Cadets will be given the chance to choose from introductory courses covering the basic tools, knowledge and skills to protect small networks, to advanced courses covering more detailed, in-depth topics.

The programme will build on GCHQ’s CyberFirst initiative, which aims to teach young people cybersecurity fundamentals. It will also offer a ‘train the trainer’ course, which will teach more than 50 Cadet Force Adult Volunteers so they can deliver the course to future entrants.

Speaking on the announcement, Williamson said: “We live in a modern world where our phones are rarely out of our hands and we rely on computers to make daily tasks easier.

“Cyber threats to the UK are constantly evolving and this exciting initiative to train and develop ‘cyber cadets’ – the first of its kind in a NATO state – reaffirms our leading role in tackling security threats head-on.”

Growing Threats

Developing future cyber talent is a key issue as global threats continue to grow. The UK faces significant cyber threats and Williamson insisted it was important to have the right skills to combat an ever-evolving risk.

In September, it was reported that the Ministry of Defence and GCHQ would collaborate to create the UK’s first “cyber force“, aimed at improving the UK’s defences in a changing world.

Britain’s futuristic cyber force will be comprised of up to 2,000 specialists, made up of GCHQ officials, military personnel and contractors. According to sources, the force will receive more than £250 million in funding.