Berkshire Cyber Security Skills Bootcamp

Strong cyber security practices are essential for protecting all aspects of a business. This course, delivered in partnership with The Skills and Business Hub in Berkshire, introduces you to fundamental Cyber Security concepts, tools & defence techniques. If you live in Berkshire and are employed, self-employed, or currently seeking work or a career change, this is a valuable chance to develop sought-after cyber security skills that will support safer digital environments and contribute to organisational success.

Hurry! Our next fully-funded (FREE) course for eligible learners starts 15th July 2025. Find out more below & register your interest today.

Duration: 60 hours learning over 10 weeksCourse Fee Information
Cyber security Skills Bootcamp Berkshire

Course Overview

Whether you’re beginning a career in IT, overseeing digital systems, running a business, exploring a new professional direction, or actively looking for work, the Berkshire Cyber Security Skills Bootcamp can help you move forward. This programme equips you with essential knowledge and practical skills to recognise threats, safeguard data and manage cyber risks. You’ll also have the opportunity to gain the industry-recognised CompTIA Security+ certificate that can enhance your CV and boost your prospects in the rapidly evolving cyber security field.

 

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Duration:60 hours learning over 10 weeks
Timings:The Bootcamp runs one day a week, typically from 9:30am to 4pm, across a 10-week period. Each day includes regular breaks and time set aside for lunch.
Study Modes:Fully online, this group-based training & coaching experience includes a mix of dynamic, hands-on activities designed to keep you engaged and actively involved.
Qualifications and Level:The industry recognised CompTIA Security+ certificate. Certificate of completion from Fareport Training & The Skills and Business Hub 
Entry requirements:

To apply, you must be a resident of Berkshire and at least 19 years old by the 31st of August 2025. The Bootcamp is open to a wide range of individuals, including employed professionals, sole traders, freelancers, business owners and those who are unemployed or looking to change careers. Applicants must have the legal right to work in the UK and have lived in the country continuously for the past three years.

A keen interest in Cyber Security and a strong dedication to building your skills through the programme is essential.

Cost:If you're located in Berkshire and are a sole trader, freelancer, unemployed, or operate a business with no staff, you could qualify for full funding of the course, fully subsidised by The Skills and Business Hub. For small to medium-sized businesses (1–250 employees), a 10% employer contribution is required, with the remaining 90% covered by The Skills and Business Hub. Larger companies with more than 250 employees are asked to contribute 30%, while the remaining 70% is funded by The Skills and Business Hub. Please note, all funding support is dependent on meeting the full eligibility criteria.
Who is this aimed at?

If you’re a Berkshire resident – whether employed, self-employed, wanting to transition to a new career, or currently job hunting – this Skills Bootcamp is tailored to help you develop your Cyber Security knowledge, skills and expertise.

Course DateInformation
Tuesday 15th July 2025For unemployed individuals looking to enter a cyber security related role. Includes employability training & guaranteed job interview. The programme is held once a week on Tuesdays, running from 9:30am to 4pm, spread over a 10-week period. Each session includes scheduled breaks and a dedicated lunch break. Going on holiday during the course? No problem. You can pause your learning for up to 2 weeks & catch up after.
Wednesday 23rd July 2025The programme is held once a week on Wednesdays, running from 9:30am to 4pm, spread over a 10-week period. Each session includes scheduled breaks and a dedicated lunch break. Going on holiday during the course? No problem. You can pause your learning for up to 2 weeks & catch up after.
Thursday 21st August 2025The programme is held once a week on Thursdays, running from 9:30am to 4pm, spread over a 10-week period. Each session includes scheduled breaks and a dedicated lunch break. Going on holiday during the course? No problem. You can pause your learning for up to 2 weeks & catch up after.

Module 1: Security Foundations & Core Concepts


This module covers the basics of cybersecurity and the core principles of the CIA Triad – Confidentiality, Integrity, and Availability. It introduces security controls, the difference between authentication and authorisation, and key security roles such as analysts and CISOs. Participants also receive an overview of the CompTIA Security+ exam and its main focus areas. This week lays the groundwork for understanding essential cybersecurity concepts.

Module 2:  Common Threats, Actors & Attack Vectors


This module explores various types of threat actors, including their motives and capabilities. Students learn about social engineering, phishing, and credential attacks that exploit human behaviour. The week also covers different forms of malware, physical attacks, and the common vectors used to deliver these threats. This knowledge helps learners recognise how attacks are carried out and who may be behind them.

Module 2 Basic Networking Concepts

Module 3: Vulnerabilities & Exploits


This module focuses on identifying and understanding weaknesses in software and hardware that attackers can exploit. Topics include zero-day attacks, misconfigurations, and privilege escalation, which allow unauthorised access or control. Participants also learn about Common Vulnerabilities and Exposures (CVEs), vulnerability scanning tools, and the use of vulnerability databases for tracking known issues. This week emphasises the importance of proactive detection and mitigation of security flaws.

Module 4: Defensive Tools & Techniques


This module introduces key technologies used to protect systems and networks from threats. Course attendees learn about firewalls, IDS/IPS, and anti-malware tools that detect and block malicious activity. The week also covers network segmentation, SIEM systems, packet sniffers, and patch management tools for monitoring, analysis, and maintaining security. These tools form the backbone of an effective defence-in-depth strategy.

Module 4 Protecting Personal and Organisational Data (Mitigation techniques) 

Module 5: Security Architecture  


Module 5 focuses on designing secure systems and networks. Topics include network security zones and secure network design principles that help isolate and protect critical assets. Learners also explore cloud security, virtualisation, secure protocols, and basic application security concepts. This week emphasises building security into infrastructure from the ground up.

Module 5 Operating System Security  

Module 6: Access Control & Identity Management (IAM)


Week 6 covers how users are identified, authenticated, and granted access to resources. Participants learn about authentication methods, authorisation models like RBAC, and the role of identity providers. The week also explores Single Sign-On (SSO), federation, directory services, and the creation of effective access policies. These concepts are essential for managing secure and efficient user access in any organisation.

Module 6 Introduction to Cybersecurity Tools 

Module 7: Security Operations & Hardening


This module focuses on maintaining and strengthening the security of systems over time. Key topics include setting security baselines, applying secure configurations, and using endpoint detection tools to monitor for threats. Participants also learn about change management, monitoring and logging, and backup planning to ensure systems remain secure and resilient. This week emphasises proactive measures to protect and maintain IT environments.

Module 7 Hands-On Activities 

Module 8: Incident Response, Governance, Risk & Compliance and Forensics  


This module covers how organisations prepare for and respond to security incidents. Learners explore the phases of incident response, digital forensics basics, and maintaining a proper chain of custody for evidence. The week also includes an overview of security policies, risk management, and key compliance standards. These topics help ensure both effective response and adherence to legal and organisational requirements.

Module 8 Program Management & Oversight 

Module 9: Review, Exam Prep & Labs 


This week focusses on reinforcing knowledge and preparing for the Security+ exam. Learners engage in practice exams, key concept reviews, and troubleshooting scenarios to test their understanding. The week also covers exam strategies, hands-on live labs, and a final Q&A and feedback session. This comprehensive review helps solidify skills and boost confidence before the certification exam.

Module 9 Careers and Further Learning 

Module 10: Review, Exam - CompTIA Security+ Industry Recognised Accreditation


Module 10 marks the culmination of the course with final preparations and exam completion. Learners go through ID checks, exam setup, and receive guidance on time management during the test. The exam is administered remotely. The week concludes with celebration, feedback, and discussion of next steps in their cybersecurity journey.

CompTIA Security+ industry recognised accreditation and Skills Bootcamp wrap up

Over the course of just 10 weeks, our Berkshire Cyber Security Skills Bootcamp will boost your confidence and capability in protecting systems, data, and organisations from cyber threats. Through a carefully designed series of modules, you’ll build practical knowledge, explore industry tools, and gain a solid foundation in cyber defence strategies.

Here is what you will find valuable:

• Understanding and preventing common cyber threats (e.g. phishing, malware, ransomware)
• Learning the basics of networking, firewalls, and VPNs
• Practising secure habits like safe browsing and password management
• Gaining hands-on experience with anti-virus software and basic intrusion detection tools
• Exploring operating system security, updates and patches
• Engaging with real-world scenarios such as spotting phishing scams and configuring firewalls
• Preparing for the globally recognised CompTIA Security+ certification
• Exploring career pathways and further progression opportunities in the Cyber Security industry

Where can our Cyber Security Skills Bootcamp make an impact in your Berkshire business?

Finance Teams
Cyber Security is essential for protecting sensitive financial data. This Bootcamp can equip finance professionals with the knowledge to recognise cyber threats, manage risk, and ensure systems and processes are secure – reducing the likelihood of costly breaches and enhancing regulatory compliance.

HR Teams
With access to confidential employee data, HR teams are a key target for cyber attacks. This course can help HR professionals understand how to keep data secure, spot potential threats like phishing and promote good cyber hygiene practices throughout the organisation.

Operations Teams
Smooth operations depend on secure systems. This Bootcamp introduces best practices in protecting business-critical applications and managing digital assets, helping operations teams reduce downtime and strengthen business continuity planning.

IT Teams
Cyber Security sits at the core of every IT department. This Bootcamp reinforces foundational skills in threat prevention, detection, and mitigation. It’s an ideal way for IT professionals to deepen their knowledge, support wider cyber strategies and prepare for further technical certifications.

Sales and Marketing Teams
Sales and marketing often handle large databases and customer interactions, making them a key part of the security chain. This Bootcamp helps teams understand secure data practices, avoid common scams and contribute to an organisation-wide culture of cyber awareness.

Small Business Owners
With limited resources, small businesses are often more vulnerable to cyber attacks. This Bootcamp gives business owners practical tools to protect customer data, secure digital assets and develop basic risk management plans. It’s an investment in long-term resilience and peace of mind.

 

Thomas Curwen

Thomas Curwen

Trainer

With a strong background in cybersecurity and project management, Thomas is a passionate and knowledgeable tutor dedicated to helping learners build real-world technical skills. Drawing on his experience in both public and private sector roles, he specialises in cyber risk management, application security, and threat intelligence, with a talent for making complex topics easy to understand.

Key personal skills include a calm and engaging teaching style, excellent communication, and a genuine passion for helping others grow. Thomas is known for his learner-centred approach, practical mindset, and commitment to industry best practices. With recognised certifications including CompTIA Security+ and PMI’s CAPM, he brings both depth and clarity to the virtual classroom. He looks forward to supporting you on your journey into cybersecurity.

We’ll soon be featuring feedback here from our Cyber Security Skills Bootcamp course attendees, but in the meantime, take a look at our Skills Bootcamp testimonials at the bottom of this page.

Q. What certification will I obtain after completing this Cyber Security Skills Bootcamp?
Q. What is the Cyber Security Skills Bootcamp?
Q. Who is eligible to attend the Cyber Security Skills Bootcamp?
Q. Is the Cyber Security Skills Bootcamp course free or part funded?
Q. I have already completed a Skills Bootcamp, can I enrol on another?

Why choose to learn with Fareport Training?

Fareport Training was established in 1981 in order to offer young people a route into work through work based training. In 2014 the business was purchased with support from entrepreneur Theo Paphitis by Natalie Cahill and Marinos Paphitis. Since then we have been building on Fareport’s excellent reputation for high quality training, delivering apprenticeships, HTQ’s and Skills Bootcamps across England. We are proud to offer:

  • Expert-Led Instruction: Gain insights from industry leaders and seasoned professionals.
  • Cutting-Edge Curriculum: Stay ahead with the latest trends, tools, and techniques.
  • Flexible Learning Options: Balance your education with your professional and personal life.

Register your interest now!

Please fill out the brief form below & a member of our Skills Bootcamp team will get in touch to guide you through the next steps of your application. Going on holiday during your preferred course? No problem. You can pause your learning for up to 2 weeks & catch up after – so please continue to register below.

Customer Testimonials

Real experiences, real success—hear from our learners and employers about how our training programmes have made a difference.

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