A Ballymoney school are one of five local schools and colleges in Northern Ireland that have been given special recognition for their high standard of cybersecurity teaching for the first time.
Dalriada School has received a Bronze award from the National Cyber Security Centre (NCSC) in a scheme supported by the NI Cyber Security Centre within the Department of Finance.
Five Northern Ireland Schools and colleges, including a special school, have received CyberFirst Schools and Colleges Gold, Silver and Bronze awards in a programme which has been developed to encourage and support students interested in pursuing a career in cybersecurity.
Congratulating the schools and colleges, Finance Minister Conor Murphy said: “The cyber world is very much part of our everyday lives and it is great to see that local schools and colleges are leading the way when it comes to developing digital skills and cybersecurity education.
“This recognition is well deserved and I am particularly pleased to see that one of our local special schools is the first to receive an award too. Congratulations to everyone involved and I look forward to hearing about more schools receiving this award in the future.”
Education Minister Peter Weir added: “I want to congratulate all of the schools that received awards and have been recognised for the quality of their cyber security teaching. We all know that the internet is a rich source of information and entertainment, however, it is vital that young people are aware of the potential dangers and are protected and educated on appropriate and responsible usage.
“Teachers and parents play a crucial role in supporting children to identify the risks and make the most of technology. Teachers can give pupils opportunities to use and create positive online content and at the same time give them the confidence and the skills to seek help should they encounter problems online. Parents can help by encouraging them to talk about their online experiences.”
Further details of the scheme and the application process that is open to all secondary schools, 6th forms and colleges in NI, can be found at: https://www.ncsc.gov.uk/cyberfirst/cyberfirst-schools
