Cyber security focus of new GCSE

An upcoming GCSE in computer science, created by exam body OCR, will be introducing the topic of cyber security to secondary schools.

The request for approval of the new qualification was submitted recently to  Ofqual. OCR intends to toll out the GCSE in September of next year.

Rob Leeman, OCR computer science subject specialist, commented:

“This specification builds on OCR’s pioneering qualification development in this subject area. We have consulted with companies such as Google, Microsoft and Cisco, as well as teachers and higher education academics and organisations like Computing At School (CAS) to ensure that the content is relevant.”

OCR said in its press release that the GCSE is aimed at improving computer skills necessary for the 21st Century. The focus will be on providing experience and skills to students who may develop the next smash-hit computer game, create a new social media giant, or even join the best of the best at MI5.

Much of the course will be revolving around cyber security issues, such as firewalls, malware and phishing, and will address the belief that humans are the weakness when it comes to secure systems. Legal and ethical concerns associated with computer science technology will also be on the curriculum.

If the new qualification is successful, we will likely see improved talent and a greater number of applicants for cyber security jobs in the future, which can only be a good thing for UK SMEs. The future of British firms will hopefully be in safer hands in an age when cyber security is at the forefront of business concerns.