The final of this year’s CyberCenturion competition took place in April, bringing together 16 teams from across the UK and overseas territories, and was the culmination of three prior virtual rounds of intense competition between more than 450 teams!
In today’s world, whether we realise it or not, we are becoming more and more reliant on the internet. Where we go, what we do, who we communicate with, what we buy... this data is valuable, and it's important to keep it safe. It’s vital therefore that the young people of today are equipped with the cyber security expertise that will be required for us all to operate securely in an increasingly cyber world.
CyberCenturion, now in its 8th year, gives 12-18 year olds the opportunity to develop these skills. It explores areas of cyber security that extend and enrich the computing curriculum, equipping them with a skillset which demand is rapidly increasing for, and can be readily applied to real-world situations.
Dave Gibbs, senior subject specialist for computing and technology, said: "Cyber security is integral to learning in computing and is an area of massive growth in the UK. Safe and secure computer systems and networks are relied upon across STEM and beyond, and there are those around the world who seek weaknesses to exploit. Cyber skills underpin future careers and are vital for young people to stay safe in the immediate future too".
Six junior teams and 10 senior teams took part in this year’s final at the RAF Museum London. Over four intense hours of competition, teams worked against the clock to secure a range of computer systems. The stages put participants in authentically challenging defensive cyber security situations, building valuable skills.
In the end, there could only be two winners. Bishop Team 3 from Bishop Stopford School emerged as the winning junior team, holding off stiff competition.
The senior crown went to CyberAces from the Isle of Man Code Club with the top spot swapping places several times throughout the final moments and the teams separated by the finest of margins!
Each team taking part in the final receives commemorative CyberCenturion coins to mark their achievements. The winners receive the prestigious CyberCenturion junior and senior trophies, Raspberry Pi kits and all expenses paid experience days!
If you’d like to find out more about the CyberCenturion competition take a look at the CyberCenturion webpage here where you will find supporting resources and guidance for prospective teams. Keep an eye out for updates on next year’s competition!
CyberCenturion is the UK version of the proven CyberPatriot competition, part of a global youth cyber STEM education programme created by the Air Force Association and presented by Northrop Grumman.