This is a Cyber First World

On Monday 17th February 2020, Rolls-Royce hosted CyberFirst’s Trailblazers and Adventurers events. Launched in 2016 and inspired and led by the National Cyber Security Centre (NCSC), CyberFirst began as a programme of opportunities to help young people explore their passion for tech by introducing them to the world of cyber security. The events aim to encourage school students to study computer science at GCSE and beyond – and promote career opportunities in the fields of cyber security, computer science and technology.

The first event – Trailblazers – was aimed at Year 8 students, aged 12-13. It took the students through three different interactive sessions called Go Create, Digital Detective and Media Mogul. They learnt about programming with HTML/CSS, digital footprints and how to create an advert on YouTube.

The second event – Adventurers – was for Year 9 students, aged 13-14. Students took part in three sessions. During Data Games, they looked at big data and how it can be used. In Crack the Code they worked in a team to problem solve and decrypt a secret code. And in 3D Modelling they used Microsoft 3D designer to design a town hall.

An Adventurers student said, “I thought it was very fun and informative! I had so much fun when doing this activity!”

A parent of a student explained, “It has shown me how much cyber is interwoven in our lives and the potential of future employment and educational routes for my child.”

A great day was had by all, with the students wanting to stay longer and enjoy more cyber workshops.