Schools to offer qualifications in cyber security

Scotland is set to become the first country in Europe to offer qualifications in cyber security as part of the school curriculum.

The Scottish Qualifications Authority (SQA) are currently working with employers, colleges and schools to devise a range of national progression awards touching on the likes of ethical hacking.

Deputy First Minister John Swinney, who made the announcement at a Holyrood conference on cyber security, said he hoped the initiative would boost numbers going into the profession amid repeated warnings of a skills shortage.

“These qualifications will be the first school-based courses in this specific field in Europe,” said Swinney. “These awards, alongside other SQA computing qualifications, will help our young people to develop the skills and knowledge they need to be safe online.

“And I hope, in time, the new awards will inspire young people to consider a career in cyber security or computing science.”

NPAs are currently available in range of sectors, including the likes of childcare and construction as well as enterprise and employability.

A spokesman for the SQA said: "Work has started on developing our National Progression Awards (NPA) in Cyber Security. The awards are being developed in partnership with industry, meaning the skills and knowledge acquired will meet the needs of employers and also allow learners to move on to higher qualifications.

“The new NPAs will be available at SCQF level 4, 5 and 6 - broadly equivalent in challenge to National 4, National 5 and Higher courses. The awards will have a similar structure across the various levels so candidates will study a number of units including; Information Security, Ethical Hacking, and Ethics and Professionalism."