PlanBEE Cyber

cyber security student

Developed by Cyber North, Northumbrian Water Group, and Gateshead College, PlanBEE Cyber is a unique Cyber security technologist (Cyber Security Engineer) higher apprenticeship programme.

It prepares you for a career in designing, building and testing secure networks or security products or systems with a particular focus on the security aspects of the design.

The programme builds on the successful award-winning PlanBEE programme which was developed by Ryder Architecture and Gateshead College in the North East and has been running successfully within the construction sector for 8 years.

From the moment you join, you’ll be a valuable member of the team, working for some of the region’s leading employers and we’ll make sure your work is well rewarded. So, we won’t just train you for a well-paid career; we’ll pay you a salary from day one.

With a starting salary of circa £23,151 per year, you’ll also benefit from a pension plan and a generous holiday entitlement every year.

The programme will give you a flavour of the wide variety of employers in the industry. Over the two-year programme, you’ll work with four different companies from different sectors to gain the breadth of knowledge, skills, and experience, needed to succeed in your future career as a Cyber Security Engineer.

What will I study?

You will complete a Higher Apprenticeship programme in Cyber Security Technologist (2021) specialising in the Cyber Security Engineer route.

You’ll spend one day a week studying and developing your knowledge through a combination of lectures, hands on experience and tutorials at Gateshead College

Throughout your apprenticeship you will be developing a range of skills and behaviours which are key to the various roles in the cyber sector.

You’ll gain knowledge in design, build and test secure networks or security products or systems with a particular focus on the security aspects of the design.

What are the entry requirements?

This programme is open to anyone aged 18 and over with a passion for digital technologies, cyber and networking. 

It’s not for the faint hearted; the pace will be fast and you will be expected to excel in your development so you can progress to the next stage. 

You should have already completed GCSE (Level 2) and A Level (or equivalent Level 3) study and eligible to apply for university level study in the UK.    

You need 3 A Levels at grade C and above or a BTEC Extended Diploma (averaging merits/distinctions), or the equivalent of 96 UCAS points plus GCSE Maths, Science and English at grade 4 (C) or above.  

A qualification or experience in the digital sector would be desirable.  

Beyond your academic qualifications, we’ll be looking for evidence that you’re genuinely enthusiastic about developing a career in cyber. 

You’ll be analytical, methodical and good at solving problems, as well as articulate, driven and a fast learner.  

You must also be living at a North East postcode or attend a North East school or college to apply for the programme. 

To join PlanBEE Cyber you must be eligible to live and work in the UK before submitting an application. If you have already completed a degree level programme you will not be eligible to join PlanBEE Cyber.

How do I apply?

Applications for December 2024 are now open.  

Step 1: Application  

Complete and submit your application form by clicking the link below. We will let you know we have received it.Click here to start your application. Applications close on Thursday 31st October.  

Step 2: Shortlisting  

We will shortlist your form against the set criteria. If you meet the criteria you will be invited for interview and assessment.  

Step 3: Interview & Assessment  

If you are successfully shortlisted, you will be invited to take part in our Assessment Centre. This will consist of a range of assessments, including literacy, mathematics, communication and problem-solving skills. Subject to successful completion of the assessments, you will also be invited to a formal interview with a panel of employers.  

Step 4: Success – you’ve got the job!  

If you’re successful at interview, you will be contacted within 1 week and told the good news. If not we will work with you to advise you on other options available to you.