The Flagpole

We thought we would take this opportunity to remind you of what we do and where we can be found. Our office is now in F49 on Lower Pugin, and Kerry Low and I welcome visits from students and staff with queries and questions. 

Here is reminder of what we aim to do.

For pupils

For all year groups we can talk about pupils' choices and options for subjects and careers. We offer each student a one-to-one guidance interview in Y10 and Y11 and again in L6. Students are also welcome to pop into F49 at lunch, tutor or breaktime for further help. We also contribute to the careers curriculum that runs from Yr7 to Yr13 in PHSE and provide information for all the choices the students will need to make at the appropriate time.

For parents

Parents can contact the careers team via email and one of us will get in touch. 

Finally, we are now responsible for Work Experience and the biannual Careers Fair, next scheduled for March 2023. If you are a parent and feel you could contribute in terms of offering a work placement or exhibiting at our Careers Fair please get in touch.

Jacqui Quinney   
Head of Careers

CyberFirst Student Bursary and Development Scheme is a unique opportunity to join the CyberFirst student community that rewards students for their talent and commitment whilst they study at University. Working with GCHQ, the National Cyber Security Centre (NCSC), as well as over 150 industry members and other government departments, you’ll gain unrivalled insight into the constantly evolving world of cyber security, taking on some seriously unique, real-world research tasks and projects. Think cyber-attacks, espionage, terrorism, and organised crime. It’s a challenging, varied and meaningful development opportunity that you simply won’t find anywhere else while gaining your degree of choice.

The programme could potentially lead to exciting roles within government and industry. Particularly in intelligence and national security organisations or their industry partners, where you’ll help to shape and further advance their technical capability, including the ability to tackle national security threats.

You’ll be working with some of the most advanced technology and will develop a broad range of skills including teamwork, communication and leadership. Throughout the scheme you’ll be part of a close-knit cohort, providing opportunities for support and learning within this community. Ultimately, you’ll be making a real contribution to the UK as a whole.

During the years you study at university, you will receive a Bursary of £4,000 per year. Each summer, you’ll complete either training at a CyberFirst Academy or an 8-week development placement with the NCSC, a government body or one of the industry members. Wherever you are placed for the summer, you will receive a summer placement payment equivalent to £2,000. In addition, you may receive expenses towards accommodation and travel. There is also the potential for a year in industry placement, if this is required by the university and course that you chose. If at the end of your degree course, you would prefer to continue with academic study, there may be the opportunity to do post graduate research in cyber security, with the possibility of funding.

To apply for this opportunity, you must meet their nationality, residency, and security requirements. You must be 18 years of age on or before 31 December 2023. You will find more details here