NextGen Digital Pathways

Cyber Security Essentials

Course Information

This Cyber Security Essentials short course is a practical, one day course designed to build essential cyber awareness and safe digital behaviours for all users of technology. As digital tools become integral to everyday work and learning, cyber security is no longer just an IT concern, it is everyone’s responsibility.


Cyber attacks such as phishing, malware, ransomware and data breaches increasingly target individuals through everyday technologies including email, cloud platforms, mobile devices and collaboration tools. A single mistake can lead to significant disruption, financial loss, reputational damage, or loss of personal and organisational data.

Aligned to the Gateway Qualifications Level 1/2 Award in Cybersecurity, this cyber short course provides learners with a clear understanding of common cyber threats, how attacks happen, and the simple but effective actions individuals can take to protect themselves and their organisations.

The Cyber Security Essentials course focuses on real world scenarios and everyday digital activity, helping learners recognise risks, respond appropriately to incidents, and develop confidence in using digital tools securely. It supports organisations in strengthening their human firewall by reducing cyber risk through improved awareness, knowledge and accountability.

By the end of the day, learners will be better equipped to spot suspicious activity, handle information responsibly, and follow the right steps if something goes wrong. This builds confidence at an individual level and helps teams reduce avoidable risk across the organisation. 

  • Introduction to Cyber Security
  • UK GDPR Core Compliance
  • Remote Working Security
  • Phishing and Social Engineering
  • Password Security and MFA
  • Email Safety
  • Ransomware Awareness
  • Incident Reporting and Cyber Escalation
    Summary, Q&A, and Knowledge Check

There is no formal exam for this cyber essentials course. Learning is supported through guided discussion, practical examples and scenario-based activities across the day. The session closes with a summary and knowledge check, and an optional short quiz can be used to reinforce key points and confirm understanding.

Why Learn With Us?

Accredited certifications

Practical, workplace-relevant learning

Full or part funding available

Flexible delivery options

Frequently Asked Questions

No, this course is not accredited. It is aligned to the Gateway Qualifications Level 1/2 Award in Cybersecurity and is designed to build essential awareness and safe everyday behaviours.

You can contact us directly via the contact page, or fill out the form here.

This cyber essentials training course is suitable for employees at all levels who use digital tools as part of their role, learners and apprentices entering the workplace, and non technical staff who want a clear and accessible introduction. It is also ideal for organisations focusing to reducing cyber risk.

No. The course is designed to be accessible and hands-on, guiding learners through key concepts and practical activities.

You will leave with a clearer understanding of common cyber threats and practical steps you can take to protect yourself and your organisation. You will feel more confident spotting suspicious activity, handling data responsibly, and reporting incidents quickly and appropriately.

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