Government launches cybersecurity programme to address skills gap

New programme aims to train 14 to 18-year-olds for a career in cybersecurity

The government has launched a £20m education programme to train nearly 6,000 teenagers in a cybersecurity skills initiative.

The Cyber Security Schools Programme - which kicks off in the autumn - is being rolled out to help address the well-publicised IT skills shortage in the UK.

Matt Hancock, minister of state for digital, said: "Our Cyber Schools Programme aims to inspire the talent of tomorrow and give thousands of the brightest young minds the chance to learn cutting-edge cybersecurity skills alongside their secondary school studies.

"I encourage all those with the aptitude, enthusiasm and passion for a cybersecurity career to register for what will be a challenging and rewarding scheme."

Aimed at 14 to 18-year-olds, the programme will see teenagers study a range of cybersecurity areas alongside compulsory education through a network of clubs, activities and online content.

The programme will be delivered through BT, online education platform futureLearn, cybersecurity training institute SANS and Cyber Security Challenge UK.

The government has set the target of having at least 5,700 students graduating the course by 2021, with routes into employment provided to successful participants.

Students, teachers and industry organisations can register their interest in the programme through its official website.