Programme Overview
A comprehensive 12-month journey from foundation to professional readiness in cybersecurity.
Programme Structure
The Global Cyber Talent Initiative is structured as a 12-month intensive programme divided into four progressive phases. Each phase includes checkpoints, evidence capture, and performance review to ensure continuous development and measurable outcomes.
Phase 1: Foundation Phase
Duration: Months 1-3
This foundational phase establishes core cybersecurity concepts and professional expectations. Participants develop a solid understanding of:
- Fundamental cybersecurity principles and terminology
- Systems thinking and security architecture
- Professional standards and workplace expectations
- Basic threat landscape and attack vectors
- Introduction to security frameworks and compliance
Learning Outcomes
By the end of Phase 1, participants will have a clear understanding of cybersecurity fundamentals and be prepared to apply these concepts in practical scenarios.
Phase 2: Applied Skills Phase
Duration: Months 4-6
Building on the foundation, this phase focuses on hands-on application through labs and real-world scenarios:
- Practical security tool usage and configuration
- Vulnerability assessment and penetration testing basics
- Incident detection and initial response procedures
- Security monitoring and log analysis
- Network security fundamentals
Hands-On Learning
All labs are scenario-based, simulating real organisational environments to ensure practical, applicable skill development.
Phase 3: Project & Collaboration Phase
Duration: Months 7-9
This phase emphasizes teamwork and professional collaboration:
- Team-based security projects
- Incident response exercises and simulations
- Documentation and reporting practices
- Communication with stakeholders
- Project management in security contexts
Real-World Application
Projects are designed to mirror actual workplace scenarios, preparing participants for collaborative security work in professional environments.
Phase 4: Professional Readiness Phase
Duration: Months 10-12
The final phase prepares participants for employer engagement:
- Workplace behaviours and professional ethics
- Advanced reporting and documentation
- Employer-facing delivery and presentation
- Portfolio development and evidence compilation
- Career readiness and interview preparation
Employer Engagement
During this phase, participants may engage with employer partners through supervised projects, placements, or short-term assignments, providing real-world experience before full employment.
Assessment & Performance Framework
Throughout the programme, participants are continuously assessed across four key domains:
Technical Execution
Problem-solving ability, tool proficiency, and technical accuracy in security tasks.
Reliability
Consistency, follow-through, and dependability in completing assignments and projects.
Communication
Clear documentation, effective reporting, and professional interaction with peers and stakeholders.
Security Mindset
Ethical judgement, risk awareness, and professional security thinking.
Performance Tiers
Based on continuous assessment, participants are ranked within a structured framework:
- Platinum: Consistently high performers ready for complex responsibilities
- Gold: Highly capable and reliable, performs strongly with minimal supervision
- Silver: Solid foundational capability with growing confidence
- Bronze: Early-stage learners actively developing core skills
Programme Delivery
The programme combines multiple learning modalities:
- Structured Learning Modules: Core curriculum delivered through interactive sessions
- Hands-On Labs: Practical exercises in controlled environments
- Real-World Projects: Application of skills in realistic scenarios
- Mentorship: Guidance from industry professionals
- Peer Collaboration: Learning through teamwork and knowledge sharing
Ready to Begin?
Applications are open for our next cohort. Start your application today and take the first step toward a career in cybersecurity.