Introduction

The primary role of a Cyber Security Technologist is to apply an understanding of cyber threats, hazards, risks, controls, measures and mitigations to protect organisations, systems and people.

There are two pathways to this Standard:

Technologist:

• Those focused on the technical side work on areas such as security design and architecture, security testing, investigations & response.

Risk Analyst:

• Those focused on the risk analysis side focus on areas such as operations, risk, governance & compliance.

Whether focused on the technical or risk analysis side, all people in this occupation work to achieve required security outcomes in a legal and regulatory context in all parts of the economy. They develop and apply practical knowledge of information security to deliver solutions that fulfil an organisation’s requirements.

Typical Risk Analyst job roles:

Cyber Operations Manager, Risk Analyst, Governance & Compliance Analyst, Information Security Assurance & Threat Analyst, Forensics & Incident Response Analyst, Information Security Auditor.

Entry Requirements

Individual employers will set the selection criteria, but this is likely to include A Levels, a relevant Level 3 apprenticeship, or other relevant qualifications, relevant experience and/or an aptitude test with a focus on functional maths.

You will also be assessed to ensure you have the ability to complete the English and maths qualifications at Level 2.

Functional Skills

Apprentices will be required to have or achieve Level 2 English and maths prior to completion of their apprenticeship. If this has already been achieved, then development of further English and maths skills will continue for the whole of the apprenticeship.

Duration

The duration of this apprenticeship is typically 24 months.

Progression

This apprenticeship is recognised for entry to both IISP and BCS Associate Membership and for entry onto the Register of IT Technicians confirming SFIA Level 3 professional competence. Those completing the apprenticeship are eligible to apply for registration.

Funding

This apprenticeship is set at Level 4 and in funding band 12. Levy paying employers may fund apprentices on this programme from their Apprenticeship Account and non-levy paying SMEs through the co-funded option. There may be a small fee for some SMEs.

End Assessment

To achieve this apprenticeship standard, the employer, training provider and apprentice will agree when the apprentice is ready and competent to undertake the independent end assessment, which will test their skills knowledge and behaviours required for this role.

The end point assessment uses four assessment methods:

• Summative portfolio
• Synoptic project
• Employer reference
• Interview.