Preparing Students to be the Next Generation of Cyber Professionals

As the digital landscape evolves, the UK faces an urgent need to cultivate a new generation of cyber professionals. The public sector has a crucial role to play in this endeavour, particularly by engaging school students early on and preparing them for careers in cybersecurity and related STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) fields. This strategy is essential not just for filling the existing skills gap, but also for ensuring the nation’s security and technological leadership in the coming decades.

Public Sector Cyber Security Conference

The Current State of STEM Education and Workforce in the UK

Despite significant efforts, the UK still faces a considerable skills gap in STEM fields, which extends to the cybersecurity sector. Women, for instance, constitute only 26% of the STEM workforce, and while there has been a gradual increase, at the current rate of change, gender parity in STEM careers won’t be achieved until at least 2070. Moreover, specific fields like engineering and computer science continue to see low female representation, with women making up just 12% of engineering professionals and 24% of computer science graduates (IET, Stem Women).

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The UK’s shortage of STEM skills is a long-standing issue, impacting productivity, economic growth, and the ability to meet broader policy goals such as net-zero emissions. The Government’s initiatives, including T-Levels and the National Skills Fund, are steps in the right direction, but more targeted efforts are needed to address this gap (UK Parliament).

The Role of the Public Sector in Cyber Education

To effectively prepare the next generation of cyber professionals, the public sector must focus on several key areas:

Early Engagement in STEM Education: Encouraging interest in STEM subjects from an early age is crucial. The Department for Education has already implemented several initiatives, such as enhancing teacher training and providing resources like the Isaac Physics platform, which supports students’ transition from GCSEs to higher education. These programmes are vital for laying the groundwork for future cyber professionals (Education Hub).
Promoting Diversity in STEM: Addressing the gender imbalance in STEM fields should be a priority. This can be achieved through targeted campaigns, scholarships, and mentoring programmes aimed at young women and underrepresented groups. By showcasing diverse role models in cybersecurity, the public sector can help break down stereotypes and encourage more students to pursue these careers (Stem Women).
Developing Cyber-Specific Educational Pathways: The creation of specialised cyber education tracks within the broader STEM curriculum is essential. This could involve partnerships with universities and industry to offer cyber-focused modules at A-Level and equivalent qualifications, coupled with real-world learning opportunities like internships and apprenticeships. Degree apprenticeships, in particular, should be expanded and made more accessible to students across the country (Committees – UK Parliament).
Enhancing Teacher Training and Resources: The shortage of qualified STEM teachers, particularly in computer science and related fields, is a significant barrier. Addressing this through improved pay, professional development, and more attractive career structures for educators will be key to sustaining long-term improvements in STEM education (Beyond100K).
Fostering Industry and Public Sector Collaboration: The public sector should collaborate closely with the private sector to ensure that the skills being taught align with industry needs. This could involve joint curriculum development, funding for educational programmes, and the establishment of cyber academies that provide specialised training for students interested in pursuing careers in cybersecurity.

Preparing for the Future of the Public Sector in Cybersecurity

The UK’s ability to become a global leader in cybersecurity depends on its success in nurturing the next generation of cyber professionals. The public sector has a pivotal role to play in this by creating an educational environment that not only excites young people about STEM but also equips them with the skills needed to thrive in a rapidly changing digital world. By addressing the existing gaps and promoting inclusivity, the UK can ensure a robust and diverse cybersecurity workforce capable of meeting the challenges of the future.

As we look to the future, the role of STEM education in shaping a knowledgeable and skilled workforce cannot be overstated. Governments, educational institutions, and private organisations must continue to support and expand STEM initiatives to ensure students are well-equipped for the challenges and opportunities of the 21st century.

The Future of STEM in Education

STEM education is a cornerstone of modern education, vital for fostering innovation, critical thinking, and technical proficiency. By addressing challenges such as teacher shortages and lack of diversity, and by leveraging technology and real-world applications, we can create an educational environment that prepares all students to thrive in a rapidly evolving world.

To discover how schools should be preparing school students to be the next generation of cyber professionals, please see our latest event below.

REGISTER FREE: Public Sector Cyber Security Conference

How the Public Sector Could be Engaging and Preparing School Students to be the Next Generation of Cyber Professionals

Speaker: Andrew Pape, Head of Computer Science. Online Safety Coordinator, Thomas Tallis School.
Winner – ICT Innovation Award 2024 – Education Business Awards.
Finalist – National Cyber School of the Year 2023 – National Cyber Awards

Join us at The Public Sector Cyber Security Conference 2025 to receive the latest updates on the threat landscape. Discover the strategies and tactics required to successfully defend your organisation against attacks. Share experiences with your peers around the UK. Find the partners and solution providers you need to meet your challenges and stay secure.

As the digital landscape evolves, the UK faces an urgent need to cultivate a new generation of cyber professionals. The public sector has a crucial role to play in this endeavour, particularly by engaging school students early on and preparing them for careers in cybersecurity and related STEM fields. This strategy is essential not just for filling the existing skills gap, but also for ensuring the nation's security and technological leadership in the coming decades.