CESG cyber security education scheme introduced

Training in cyber security certified by CESG recently launched, with 12 courses and eight firms all granted accreditation.

The initiative was launched by GCHQ’s cyber security arm and APM Group, with the purpose of progressing the National Cyber Security Programme Objective Four, which seeks to  build the UK’s knowledge, capability and skills in the field of cyber security. The programme accredited six of 27 master’s degrees in cyber security courses earlier in 2014.

CESG National Technical Authority’s deputy director, Chris Ensor, told SCMagazineUK.com that the scheme isn’t aiming to reach specific numbers of trainees. However, he did say that its main aim is to help anyone working in the sector to illustrate or improve their level of skill to meet independent criteria. This will assist them in making their way through the information security training environment.

The APM Group CEO, Richard Pharro, commented:

“[CESG accredited courses] let the board know if they are getting the right advice. Previously you could ask, who says that the Risk Officer knows anything? Now, as a professional filling a role, they can demonstrate they are meeting standards established by CESG. And this demonstration of capability is equally good for the wider private sector.”

With more trained cyber security professionals in the industry, the scheme is bound to be a boost for businesses looking to improve their IT security departments. In the meantime, those companies would be making a smart move by taking advantage of the current crop of trained personnel and opening up cyber security jobs.