The UK's saviours in the fight against cyber crime could come from SE6 after a pioneering new curriculum was launched at a Catford secondary school.

It has been funded by the government, sponsored by the National Crime Agency along with industry giants like BT and is coming to a school near you.

Last week, cybersecurity experts from BT’s security academy chief to a former Serious Organised Crime Agency expert dropped in to Sedgehill School to deliver the first cyber security class for the 2014 curriculum.

Funded by the Cabinet Office, the new curriculum features lessons incryptography and cyber-policing designed by leading industry employers.

Cyber Security Challenge UK has launched the pioneering lesson plan to engage students in cyber security, in response to growing industry concern over a severe talent shortage.

Schools programme manager Brian Higgins explained: "The cyber security talent shortage is a major concern for industry, with fears that it could take 20 years to close the skills gap. 

"There is widespread consensus in the business community that whilst the existing curriculum moves the game on considerably, cyber security should be prominent. "

A schools pack features ready-made teaching resources designed by the UK’s leading cyber employers to help young people discover why cyber security matters and inspire them to consider a career defending the UK online.

The lesson plan includes case studies of international cyber-crime attacks, sessions on cryptography and malware, all contributed by leading UK sponsors including the National Cyber Crime Unit, defence specialists Raytheon, IT trade association CompTIA, Sophos and telecoms company BT.
  
These organisations are just some of many that are concerned the UK faces a severe cyber security skills shortfall, at a time when there is an increase in online threats. 

Mr Higgins said: "We have been working with leading employers to design lesson plans that get young people engaged in what is a vital subject and give them the desire and knowledge to pursue careers in an industry which offers great career options for young people and is in dire need of skilled workers."

The lesson plans include: 

Real-life case studies from the National Crime Agency for students to discuss in class

Crypto Battleships - a game to help remind students that cryptography is at the heart of computer science

An infographic demonstrating facts about cyber security and the career opportunities for students 

A firewall activity designed by BT Security.

The SOPHOS Cyber Security Quiz which demonstrates key malware threats currently facing the UK

Competition and teacher packs are available at cybersecuritychallenge.org/education