School children step into cyberSTEM with Newcastle United Foundation

Over one hundred school children have taken their first steps towards a career in the North East’s cyber industry with support from Newcastle United Foundation.

As part of National Careers Week, Newcastle United Foundation and staff from the North East Regional Organised Crime Unit (NEROCU) hosted an event designed to make young people aware of potential dangers of becoming involved in cyber-crime but also sparking interest in pursuing a future in the cyberSTEM industry.

The event, held at St James’ Park, featured workshops and information stalls from NHS, Northumbria University and other key cyber partners – as well as the NEROCU team’s new Virtual Reality (VR) experience.

The innovative and immersive project was developed last year by NEROCU officers and is aimed at both children and parents to educate them about the potential dangers of becoming involved in cyber-crime.

Gav Ferry, Learning and Skills Senior Manager at Newcastle United Foundation, said: “As a Foundation, we are committed to providing life-changing opportunities for young people which allow them to connect with their future careers.

“To be able to provide first-hand experience of what a job in the cyber industry could look like is a great opportunity to help motivate and inspire young people to pursue career opportunities right here in the North East.

“We would like to say a huge thank you to staff from the North East Regional Organised Crime Unit who have shown their shared commitment to improving the lives of the next generation.”

Sergeant Paul Maddison, who works for NEROCU’s Cyber Protect and Prevent Unit, was delighted with how the project was received.

He said: “We knew as we were creating the experience, we had something special but to see how the children have engaged with it has been fantastic.

“It is really important that the project helps them identify dangers and informs them how to report concerns but also how to still explore the internet and gaming and enjoy all the positives it can bring.”

Sgt Maddison continued: “We wanted to create an event, with the support of partners, that gets people excited about the cyber world, while also ensuring they have the tools and information to keep themselves, their children and other vulnerable people safe.

“The world of technology is ever evolving, and we work with others in law enforcement to make sure we remain at the forefront of cyber-crime and one digital step ahead of anyone looking to exploit, defraud or target others online.”

One of the teachers in attendance was thrilled for the fantastic opportunity for the children, she said: “This is something the pupils haven’t had access to before and to see them so engaged in cyberSTEM and the activities that are helping keep them safe online is fantastic.

“It’s a new experience and they’ve embraced it so well. They’ve loved being involved and I know they’ll be taking a lot away from it.”

Schools, employers and training partners across the region are invited to get involved with Newcastle United Foundation’s NU Futures programme to expand opportunities for young people in the North East. For more information, email gavin.ferry@nufc.co.uk.

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