Unlocking Cyber Futures: 12,000 Lancashire Pupils Dive into Tech Careers

A Dive into Cyber Careers

Students from across Lancashire schools recently experienced a taste of high-tech careers during a week-long cyber skills takeover. This initiative involved over 200 schools, colleges, and universities and is part of the 2025 Lancashire Cyber Festival, organized by the Lancashire Cyber Partnership.

Engaging Activities for Young Minds

Throughout the week, more than 12,000 children and young people from primary school to university level explored study pathways and job opportunities within the county’s cyber sector. Approximately 40 schools from East Lancashire participated in a variety of activities, including visits to local colleges such as Blackburn College, Burnley College, Accrington and Rossendale College, and Nelson & Colne College.

Hands-On Experience

Students engaged in immersive cyber activities that provided insight into potential cyber courses and careers. Notably, Blackburn College and Accrington and Rossendale College students traveled to Edge Hill University, while others visited the University of Central Lancashire’s Burnley campus. This exposure aimed to showcase the diverse career opportunities available in Lancashire’s growing cyber economy, especially with the establishment of the National Cyber Force (NCF) HQ in Samlesbury.

Voices from the Initiative

Rosie Fearn, Director of The Lancashire Colleges group, emphasized the significance of this initiative, stating, “This brilliant countywide initiative has meant pupils from schools across East Lancashire have had the chance to see exactly what kind of cyber-related courses are on offer.” She highlighted that the message throughout the activities was clear: cyber opportunities are accessible and attainable for everyone.

Lancashire Cyber Partnership, a collaboration between various educational and governmental institutions, aims to ensure that all residents benefit from the county’s burgeoning cyber economy. They focus on providing education and training that can lead to high-skilled careers in the cyber sector.

Phillippa Williamson, Leader of Lancashire County Council, noted that this program has provided thousands of young people with a glimpse into the exciting skills and job opportunities available in the cyber sector.

Additional Events

The week also featured online assemblies for primary schools, a virtual ‘capture the flag’ competition for college and university students, and an interactive cyber discovery day specifically designed for Year 8 and 9 girls, further enriching the educational experience.