RTC North has celebrated the successful completion of the CyberFirst Horizons 2026 programmes across both the North East and Yorkshire & Humber, following two regional celebration events held at North East Futures UTC and UTC Leeds.
Delivered by RTC North in partnership with the National Cyber Security Centre (NCSC) and The Hg Foundation, CyberFirst Horizons is designed to give Year 12 students practical insight into cyber and digital careers, while supporting the development of key skills, confidence and employer connections.
The programme offered students from across the North East and Yorkshire & Humber a hands-on experience, covering employability support, cyber activities, industry workshops and site visits with local employers and higher education partners. Across both regions, students were able to explore real-world cyber challenges, meet professionals working in the sector and better understand the pathways available to them after school.
To mark the end of the programme, RTC North hosted two celebration events which brought together students, families, educators, programme partners and industry representatives to recognise the achievements of the young people who took part and reflect on the impact of the programme across both regions.
Throughout the programme, participants demonstrated enthusiasm and curiosity as they developed new technical and employability skills. The celebration events provided an opportunity to acknowledge their progress and thank the many organisations that supported the programme through workshops, site visits and industry insight.
RTC North would also like to thank Deloitte for its support in providing laptops for students taking part in CyberFirst Horizons, helping participants access the technology needed to fully engage with the programme.
With demand for cyber skills continuing to grow, CyberFirst Horizons is helping to build confidence, awareness and ambition among young people across the North. By connecting students with employers and universities, the programme supports the next generation to take informed steps towards future careers in one of the UK’s fastest-growing sectors.
James Turner, Chief Executive at The Hg Foundation, commented:
“Building a strong talent pipeline into the tech sector means reaching students when they are making key decisions about their future education and career pathways. CyberFirst Horizons does just that: providing insights into the tech world, building skills and laying out the possibilities open to young people before they make crucial choices at age 18.
“It has been great to see the programme successfully expand this year and benefit many more young people.”
Claire Willis, STEM Programme Manager at the STEM Hub, added:
“I am delighted that the programme this year has been such a success, particularly as it has now grown from one region to two. Congratulations to all the students who completed the three weeks and many thanks to all of our industry supporters for delivering workshops or hosting site visits, and to our funders, the National Cyber Security Centre and The Hg Foundation, as without their support, programmes like this can’t happen.”
Chris Ensor, Deputy Director at the National Cyber Security Centre, said:
“Any student that is prepared to devote three weeks of their summer holidays to attend this course to improve their cyber knowledge and career prospects shows real commitment and deserves our full support. I know the local businesses feel the same way, and I am delighted to see over 50 companies across Yorkshire and the North East participated in the course delivery.”
Looking beyond the summer, students will continue to receive mentorship through Year 13, including support with UCAS applications, CV writing, personal statements and interview techniques. Those who complete the programme will also be eligible to apply to the new TechFirst university scholarship scheme, which offers financial support and work experience throughout their higher education.
