Build practical cyber security knowledge and learn how organisations protect their systems, networks and digital information from modern security threats.

JSTA’s Cyber Security programme combines foundational learning with practical security exercises, individual assignments and team-based activities, helping participants understand both the technical and workplace aspects of cyber security.

Programme Details

Duration: 3 Months | 6 Months | 1 Year
Format: Initial Training | Individual Security Tasks | Group Exercises | Hybrid Working Module
Group Size: Up to 10 participants

Participants begin with guided training before applying their knowledge through security exercises and collaborative activities. The Hybrid Working Module also introduces remote teamwork, online meetings, task reporting and secure digital working practices.

What Participants May Do

Participants can gain experience with tasks commonly associated with junior cyber security and IT security roles, including:

• Identifying common cyber threats and vulnerabilities
• Reviewing basic network and system security
• Recognising phishing, malware and suspicious activity
• Supporting security checks and risk assessments
• Reviewing access controls and password security
• Documenting security incidents and findings
• Researching emerging cyber threats
• Following data protection and secure-working procedures

As their knowledge develops, participants may explore more advanced activities involving vulnerability assessment, threat intelligence, network monitoring, incident response, security testing, encryption concepts and security risk analysis.

What Candidates Can Learn

The existing JSTA programme introduces several fundamental areas of cyber security, particularly network security, cryptography and cyber threat intelligence.

Network & System Security
Understand how computer networks and systems can be protected against unauthorised access, malware, phishing and other security threats.

Cyber Threats & Vulnerabilities
Learn to recognise potential vulnerabilities and understand common attack methods, including phishing, malware and denial-of-service (DoS) attacks, which are highlighted in the existing programme.

Cryptography & Data Protection
Explore the principles of encryption and decryption, including introductory concepts around symmetric-key and public-key cryptography.

Cyber Threat Intelligence
Develop an understanding of how potential threats are identified and analysed, and how organisations can prepare appropriate responses to reduce security risks.

Security Awareness & Risk Management
Learn about secure working practices, access management, cyber risk, incident reporting and the importance of protecting sensitive digital information.

Practical Cyber Security Projects

Participants may reinforce their learning through practical or simulated security scenarios such as:

• Security Assessment – Reviewing a simulated system for potential security weaknesses
• Phishing Awareness Exercise – Identifying suspicious messages and understanding social-engineering techniques
• Network Security Project – Exploring network activity and common protection measures
• Vulnerability Assessment – Identifying and documenting vulnerabilities within controlled training environments
• Incident Response Scenario – Investigating a simulated security incident and preparing an incident report
• Cyber Risk Project – Assessing digital risks and recommending appropriate security controls

All cyber security exercises should be carried out within authorised, controlled training environments, helping participants learn responsible and ethical security practices.

Building Cyber Security Career Skills

Alongside technical knowledge, participants can develop analytical thinking, problem-solving, attention to detail, documentation, communication, teamwork and risk awareness.

The programme can support participants exploring pathways such as Junior Cyber Security Analyst, SOC Analyst, Information Security Assistant, IT Security Support, Cyber Security Technician, Vulnerability Analyst and other entry-level cyber and information-security roles.

The existing page describes the programme as suitable both for people interested in pursuing cyber security careers and those wanting to improve their knowledge of protecting digital assets.

Please Note: Our core mentoring, workshops and work-experience programmes are 100% free for eligible young people aged 16–25. We also deliver paid commercial training to businesses and individuals; 100% of that profit is reinvested into our free youth programmes.