Cyber Students Wow Judges in Prestigious National Competition
Learners at Burnley College are shaping the future of technology, from developing software to train the next generation of cyber experts, to building revision tools that make learning more accessible.
These innovations were just part of the winning entry that saw Burnley College named National Cyber School of the Year 2025 at a prestigious ceremony in London.
Other exceptional activities which impressed the judges included an outreach programme where the pupils of local schools get to explore their cyber skills.
Maz Iqbal, Curriculum Principal in A Levels says the level of skill our students demonstrate every year is incredible:
“The dedication, the commitment, the real love of technology and programming from our learners is always outstanding.
“From the moment they enrol we see incredible levels of motivation and imagination.
“To see our young people truly engaging with a subject and taking control of their futures is inspiring.
“It’s a privilege to enable them on their journey as they follow their dreams and make huge leaps forward in the world of technology.”
The National Cyber Awards, celebrating excellence in cybersecurity and technology education, are widely recognised as a true hallmark of achievement within the sector.
Being chosen as a finalist from among hundreds of nominations is a testament to the achievements and skill levels of the students at Burnley College.
The college is also committed to ensuring the subject remains inclusive, with a project specifically aimed at enabling young women with a passion for coding to flex their skills in what can often be a male-dominated industry.
Interim Principal Kate Wallace says the award reflects the raw talent in the region:
“Every year we see our students achieving extraordinary things and we are proud to play a part in their journeys.
“Their determination, supported by our tutors and facilities, allows them to reach higher, go further and shape their own futures in the industries they will transform.
“Seeing students developing apps to support their peers with training and revision shows not only their talent but the strength of our Burnley College team, where ambition and tuition go hand in hand.
“We can’t wait to see what they achieve next.”
The college offers an advanced T Level in Cyber Security which will see learners get real-world work placements, giving them vital experience.
Students have taken advantage of the college’s state-of-the-art Security Operations Centre (SOC), unveiled in 2024 by Parliamentary Secretary Abena Oppong-Asare MP.
The Security Operations Centre was funded as part of the Lancashire and Cumbria Institute of Technology of which Burnley College is proud to formsss part of.
Explore where you can go with our Digital Support and Security T Level and Computing A Level and vocational courses: Home – Burnley College
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