Cyber Security T Level

course description

The T Level in Digital Support and Security with a Cyber Security specialism is an exciting, industry-focused course designed for students who want to explore how technology is protected in the modern world. Equivalent to three A Levels, this two‑year programme combines classroom learning with hands-on practical experience and a substantial industry placement.

You will learn how organisations protect their systems and data from cyber threats, explore real-world hacking scenarios, and develop the skills needed to prevent, detect and respond to cyber attacks.

Lessons combine theory with practical activities such as configuring networks, analysing security breaches, and completing realistic employer-set projects based on real industry challenges.

A key feature of the course is a minimum 315-hour industry placement, giving you valuable experience in a professional setting and helping you build the confidence and skills needed for future employment.

Course highlights
  • Real-world industry placement with local employers
  • Learn through practical, hands-on cyber security scenarios
  • Develop skills highly sought after in one of the fastest-growing industries
  • Perfect alternative to A Levels for students who enjoy practical, applied learning

Core Examination Paper 1
(Focus: Problem solving, digital support concepts, data)

Core Examination Paper 2
(Focus: Legislation, business context, digital environments, security)

Employer Set Project (ESP)
(A large, practical project based on a real-world industry brief)

Occupational Specialism Assessment – Cyber Security
(Synoptic practical project assessing specialist skills over multiple tasks)

You will study a combination of core digital knowledge and specialist cyber security topics, including:

  • Problem solving and computational thinking
  • Networking and digital infrastructure
  • Data and digital environments
  • Cyber security principles and threats
  • Legislation and ethical issues in computing
  • Risk assessment and incident management
  • Designing and implementing secure systems


Your cyber security specialism will focus on:

  • Identifying vulnerabilities and threats
  • Designing security solutions
  • Applying security controls and best practices
  • Analysing and responding to cyber incidents
  • Cyber security awareness and risk management
  • Network security and system protection
  • Problem-solving and analytical thinking
  • Ethical hacking and vulnerability testing
  • Incident response and system troubleshooting
  • Communication skills for technical and non-technical audiences
  • Project planning and teamwork

This course prepares you for:

  • Cyber Security Technician
  • Network Engineer
  • Digital Support Technician
  • IT Solutions Technician
  • Apprenticeships in Cyber Security or infrastructure

You can also progress to higher education, including degrees in Cyber Security, Computer Science, or Digital Technologies.

  • Two written exams covering core knowledge
  • Employer Set Project based on real industry scenarios
  • Synoptic assessment for the cyber security specialism
Other Courses You May Like
Drama and Theatre Studies
Biology
English Language
Maths
Sociology