Apprentice Courses

Apprentice Cyber Security Courses

Kick-start your entry level IT security training today by applying to one of our listed cyber security courses.

As new threats online emerge at ever increasing speed, many new opportunities are being created for apprenticeships in Cyber Security. The world of online and IT fraud is a rapidly expanding problem that can only be tackle by training many more new recruits into roles that involve taking on the hackers, head first. This has resulted in an explosion of new InfoSec Apprentice Courses and schemes to help them to learn the ropes. Great for anyone looking for their first role as a junior information security analyst or assistant!

If you are looking to start a new career in IT and cyber security then starting as an apprentice would be a great idea. From there you will find many further career options such as in Penetration Testing, Vulnerability Assessment, and Security Analysts right up to CISO (Chief Information Security Officer) where you would be the central point of control relating to information security matters within your organisation.

As an information security apprentice, working to defeat cyber crime, there are a great many training courses available to give you a good fundamental grounding in the discipline. These range from the most basic of introductory IT courses through practical penetration testing techniques to analysis and reporting of the threats that are discovered and recommendations to mitigate them. These tasks could all be part of your job role, depending on the organisation that you are working for.

NCSC accreditation is government backed

There are many great apprenticeship schemes for school and college leavers across the country, which are government backed too. These allow young people to get their foot on the first rung of the ladder in careers such as Information Security and IT, helping to make the information age a safer place for everyone to work in. There are many new apprentice schemes available in Cyber Security due to the immature seeming nature of the information age and how it is nowadays being used both as a weapon and for criminal exploitation.

There are numerous training courses focused on IT Cyber Security apprentices too. At this level, a good foundation module in overall data security, information security and network security will stand a student in good stead. Many colleges and universities provide training both on campus and in secondary locations for apprentices to attend. There are also many training organisations offering similar training for beginners in Cyber Security. The right course for any individual will naturally depend upon their background and the organisation that they are working as an apprentice for. Courses will usually be arranged and funded by the student’s employer.

In the UK, the government has recognised the rapid rise of online crime and espionage by prioritising the accreditation of IT Security professionals. In conjunction with GCHQ (Government Communications Headquarters) its daughter organisation NCSC (National Cyber Security Centre), the government has ensured that cyber security certifications are now backed by the authorities. This is the new CHECK scheme for CHECK Team members and CHECK Team Leaders. Once you have worked as an apprentice and become a qualified penetration tester, these exams will provide you with the next step in your cyber security career as you gain full accreditation with industry recognised qualifications.

What qualifications might you need to join an apprentice scheme course?

Many people move into jobs such as penetration tester or vulnerability assessor after gaining a little experience first in roles such as web developer or network operations. Qualifications up to levels such as Higher Apprenticeship Cyber Security Technologist Level 4 or, in Scotland, SQA SCQF 6 Diploma in Information Security or SQA SCQF 8 may be required. This varies though depending on the organisation that is considering individuals for an apprenticeship.

Potential employers for those seeking a Cybersecurity Apprenticeship may want to see individuals with qualifications such as GCSE ‘A’ levels in ICT, Business and Computing, a BTEC Extended Diploma in IT or an international Baccalaureate level 3 in ICT.

Training for Information Security Apprenticeships

As discussed above, an apprenticeship in Cyber Security will provide apprentices with a good overall grounding in the field. Apprentices come from a variety of different backgrounds, often, but not necessarily with a focus on IT.

As part of an apprentice scheme, on the job training is usually provided. There is nothing better for learning than real world training, where the apprentice can actively engage in the work of penetration testing, including fire-fighting initial threats, reporting on them and learning how to identify issues in a timely manner.

In addition, there are many Information Security Courses that an apprentice may be required to attend or take part in online. These training modules will cover everything from pen testing and analysis to reporting and security auditing.

Cyber Security Apprentice Courses and Training on the job

The courses needed first and subsequent tasks that an apprentice may then be assigned will probably include the following major elements: –

1) Foundation level training in IT and cyber security including courses accredited by CompTIA and others plus pen testing, where appropriate, will get apprentices off to a good start.

2) The overall aim of a Cyber Security specialist is to keep both information and systems secure.

3) Writing reports and ensuring compliance with the enterprises IT Security related procedures and policy.

4) Liaison with 3^rd party vendors and suppliers. Some vendors provide training in their products by providing formal courses.

5) InfoSec Compliance review participation. Course in Information Security Compliance are available for students.

5) The management of any information security risks.

6) Offering advice, training and general guidance to other staff regarding Cyber Security within the organisation they are working for.