Cyber Security Apprenticeships

Can you do an apprenticeship in cyber security?

Absolutely, and demand is growing fast. Cyber attacks are getting smarter and companies are always on the hunt for skilled professionals to help contain and prevent them. That’s where you come in.

Cyber security apprenticeships are a smart way to start your career. You'll work for your employer, learning about your role from experts within the industry, while dedicating time to your college studies alongside it (usually four days a week in the office and one day a week studying). 

You’ll get paid a salary while building real skills and on completion of your apprenticeship, will earn a real qualification to continue climbing the career ladder.

There are so many types of cyber security apprenticeships out there. Some include:

• Cyber security engineer

• Security consultant

• Risk analyst

• Government security

• Digital support technician.

What does a cyber security apprentice do? 

As a cyber security apprentice, you’ll monitor systems, spot threats, and stop hackers before they can cause damage. You'll work across different teams, picking up loads of skills along the way.

From day one you’ll get hands-on experience working with experienced colleagues to set up security tools and figure out what all the data means. By the end of your training, you’ll have a really good idea of what you truly enjoy.

Depending on the apprenticeship you do, you could find yourself:

• Identifying security risks before they become problems

• Responding quickly when threats appear

• Using encryption to keep data secure

• Investigating incidents with digital forensics.

What levels of apprenticeships are there for cyber security?

Cyber security apprenticeships start at Level 4, so if you need a little IT experience beforehand or you’re not quite ready for a Level 4 apprenticeship, you still have options.

You could start with the following:

IT Support Technician (Level 2)

DURATION: 12-18 months

ENTRY REQ: 2 GCSEs

You'll diagnose software issues, repair network components, and install antivirus software.

Digital Support Technician (Level 3)

DURATION: 18+ months

ENTRY REQ: 5 GCSEs

You'll work as the resident IT person within a company, fixing laptops and computers while developing stronger technical skills.

Want to know more about IT apprenticeships? We’ve got a whole guide for you. Click below to read:

Once you’re ready to move on to cyber security, you’ll move on to a Level 4 or Level 6 degree apprenticeship.

Cyber Security Specialist (Level 4 Higher Apprenticeship)

DURATION: Two to four years

ENTRY REQ: Two A Levels or similar

You’ll become an expert in ethical hacking, using cyber-attack simulations to protect security systems, or help assess a company's security through consulting.

Cyber Security Degree Apprenticeship (Level 6):

DURATION: Four to five years

ENTRY REQ: Three A Levels or similar

You'll graduate with loads of hands-on experience that’ll make you highly attractive to future employers. You’ll also earn a degree, without paying any tuition fees! 

Which companies offer cyber security apprenticeships?

Cyber security isn't just for tech companies. Whether it's your favourite brand, a government agency, or even a theme park, every industry needs cyber security experts. Here are some of the top employers offering cyber security apprenticeships:

[ADD EMPLOYERS HERE]

Here’s what this degree apprentice thought about their time at CGI as a security consultant:

“I thoroughly enjoy my apprenticeship programme, rating it a 10/10. The opportunity to balance academic learning with hands-on experience has been invaluable. I appreciate the diverse range of projects I get to work on, which challenge me and help me grow professionally. The rotation scheme allows me to explore different areas of the business.”

How much does a cyber security apprentice earn?

As an apprentice, you’ll get paid for your time whether you’re at work or getting on with your education training. You’ll earn around £26,000 per year. However, this can also depend on your level of experience and employer. Let’s break it down:

Level 2/3 (Intermediate/Advanced) = Between £17,000 and £21,000

Level 4/5 (Higher) = Between £24,000 and £30,000

6 (Degree) = £27,000 plus

This is just the beginning. Cyber security roles tend to pay really well, so there’s real earning potential the more experienced you become.

Cyber intelligence officers typically start around £25,000 and can earn over £50,000 with experience. As an IT security coordinator, you could earn £60,000 or more as you gain experience.

An apprenticeship is a full-time job, so on top of your salary you’ll also get great benefits. These totally depend on your employer but could include perks like a gym membership or free food at the office canteen.

How to apply for cyber security apprenticeships

Most employers recruit between September and March, but some hire year-round. Always check individual deadlines.

You'll need a solid CV and cover letter that shows your problem-solving skills and genuine interest in tech. Don't worry about lacking experience, apprenticeships are about learning.

If you're in an IT club or play around with technology in your spare time, mention it. Employers want to see your curiosity and passion.

If you’re successful, you’ll get invited to assessment centres for group tasks, presentations, and interviews.

Ready to get started? Check out all our application advice, where you’ll find everything from crafting a CV to acing your assessment centre and interviews.