CyberFirst overview
CyberFirst is a government-backed outreach and education programme designed to create opportunities for talented young people in future-focused tech careers. CyberFirst supports students from all backgrounds to consider a career in tech – including cyber security, AI, quantum computing, software, data and more.
CyberFirst gets bigger….much bigger as it moves to DSIT TechFirst
Following the Prime Minister’s announcement at London Tech Week on 8th June 2025, the UK Government will invest £187 million embedding AI and technology throughout education. The TechFirst programme will be delivered by Department of Science Innovation and Technology (DSIT) and is based in large parts on the successful NCSC CyberFirst programme.
Over the next few months readers will notice an increase in the use of TechFirst as both the CyberFirst Girls Competition and the undergraduate Bursary gradually become the responsibility of DSIT to deliver.
About CyberFirst
CyberFirst is a programme of opportunities to help young people explore their passion for cyber and emerging tech – and discover where it could take them.
CyberFirst offers a wide range of opportunities – including a university bursary scheme, a girls-only competition, opportunities to attend free events and courses across the UK and recognition of a growing eco-system of CyberFirst Schools and Colleges initiative.
Each CyberFirst activity is designed to unlock potential, break down barriers, and welcome a more diverse generation into tech. Whether you’re a problem-solver, a creative thinker, or simply curious about the future, CyberFirst gives you the skills, experience, and support to thrive – and to help shape the UK’s digital future and make the UK the safest place to live and work online.
Got questions? Let’s talk.
If you’d like to know more about CyberFirst or have any questions, we’re here to help. Get in touch via our general enquiries.
Downloads
- 8.65 MB
CyberFirst Annual Report 2024-25
Annual highlight report 2024-2025
- 654.77 KB
CyberFirst pipeline diagram
Interactive pdf showing the development stages from KS2/P3/P4/P5/P6 to KS5/S5/S6 for young people interested in a career in the digital sector.
- 5.62 MB
CyberFirst Social Value Report 2025
Report highlights CyberFirst’s broader contribution to cyber industry, social mobility, diversity, and community development. Review was conducted by the NCSC in collaboration with Social Value Business (SVB).
CyberFirst Annual Highlight Report
Explore the key moments, milestones and impact of the 2024/2025 period.
CyberFirst - Partner with us
We’re looking to work with industry to help support the next generation of tech experts.