The security operations lab at UTC Sheffield Olympic Legacy Park campus aims to equip students with the skills that employers need and prepare them for the latest careers in the computing industry.
 
Its high-tech equipment includes a threat wall powered by major cyber security providers that shows live attacks and data from around the world.
 
The lab will also have a ‘dirty network’ and the latest software to detect, analyse and test cyber security threats and viruses, as well as dual monitor support on state-of-the-art desktop machines to make analysis and tracking of data easier.
 
Dr Sarah Clark, Principal of UTC Sheffield Olympic Legacy Park campus, said: “We are very excited to launch this new high-tech lab, which reflects our commitment to working with employers to ensure our students develop the technical and cutting edge skills that the computing industry needs.”
 
The launch of the new facility is taking place during a free cyber security computing showcase open event being held at UTC Sheffield Olympic Legacy Park campus on Wednesday 25 April from 5pm to 7pm. To book your free place, visit http://www.utcsheffield.org.uk/events/
 
Computing is one of three technical subject specialisms offered at the UTC, alongside health sciences and sport science. Students can join the UTC at the age of 13, 14 or 16 and they complete a technical qualification as well as GCSEs and A Levels.
 
The event will cover a series of live demonstrations including computing projects, cyber security and technologies, encryption and robotics. Employers, including Razor, will attend the showcase event to demonstrate examples of the curriculum projects they set and discuss careers in the industry.
 
Students will demonstrate a ‘dirty network’ interactive activity, which involves building and managing a network to find the keys and phrases that pose a threat within a network’s infrastructure.
 
Colin Smith, Curriculum Director for Computing, will discuss how the UTC is working with employers to create an industry relevant curriculum that provides strong career opportunities for students.
 
He added: “Our students love learning by working with employers in fantastic facilities and applying theory to practice so they develop technical and problem solving skills. Cyber security is a growing industry with increased threats at home and abroad. The high tech lab is a direct simulation of what’s used in the cyber security industry and we are really looking forward to working and learning in the new facility.”
 
To find out more about studying computing at the UTC, go to: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZGh-YkiylGc&feature=youtu.be