16 May 2025
Cyber EPQ: What is it and why should your students do it? - A - Level event
If you were unable to join us for the “Cyber EPQ” online community meeting, don’t worry! You can catch up on all the content and a recording of the session below.
Empowering Post-16 Pupils with the Cyber EPQ
Key Takeaways
-
The Cyber EPQ is the UK’s only Extended Project Qualification (EPQ) dedicated exclusively to cybersecurity.
-
It provides students with essential digital and research skills alongside recognised UCAS points.
-
Schools receive significant support with administration, supervision guidance, and marking standardisation.
-
Fully funded places are available for Year 12 and 13 students in English state schools.
-
A new “Headstart” CPD opportunity allows teachers to complete the course modules for free to support supervision.
Exploring the Cyber EPQ: A Recap of the CAS A - Level Community Session
The latest CAS A - Level community session offered a deep dive into the Cyber EPQ – a unique qualification developed by the Chartered Institute of Information Security (CIISec). Hosted by Nicky Bodily and Emily Harfield, the session provided an overview of the programme’s structure, benefits, and how schools can get involved.
What is the Cyber EPQ?
The Cyber EPQ is a Level 3 qualification, equivalent in weight to a standard EPQ and worth up to 28 UCAS points. Designed for students aged 14 and up (with most participants in sixth form), it focuses entirely on cybersecurity – the only EPQ in the UK to do so. Accredited by City & Guilds, it offers students the chance to develop both subject knowledge and essential academic skills like independent research, referencing, and extended writing.
What does the course involve?
Unlike traditional EPQs, students begin with a set of core and optional modules on CIISec’s Moodle platform. These modules introduce students to areas such as cybercrime, digital forensics, AI, and penetration testing. Each module includes interactive content – videos, quizzes, and further reading – followed by a journal entry where students reflect on their learning.
Following this, students complete the familiar elements of the EPQ: a production log, a 5,000-word essay, and a presentation. Supervisors support students throughout, but don't need to be cyber experts. Instead, training and standardised materials help ensure consistent marking.
Support for Schools
One of the key takeaways from the session was the level of support available. CIISec acts as the exam centre, removing the administrative burden from schools. Supervisors receive clear guidance and training on marking, while bi-weekly support calls are offered for both staff and students. For those not ready to jump in, a CPD route – the "Headstart" course – allows teachers to access the learning materials for free and gain a certificate of completion.
Student Impact and Recognition
Students benefit not only from the qualification itself but from a year of free CIISec membership. This includes access to university partnerships, monthly webinars, networking opportunities, and career-focused events such as “CySec Live” and the “Pathway to Progress” summer event. There’s even the chance to be nominated for national awards celebrating outstanding students and supervisors.
Funding and Access
The Cyber EPQ has seen increasing uptake due to funding support. While earlier cohorts were funded by the Department for Science, Innovation and Technology, CIISec has committed to continuing this support themselves for eligible state school students in Years 12 and 13 in England. Independent students and schools can still access the course, though fees apply.
Next Steps: How Might You Use the Cyber EPQ?
As Computer Science teachers, we’re always looking for ways to extend and enrich learning. The Cyber EPQ offers a credible, structured route for students interested in cyber-related careers, but it's also relevant for those exploring broader digital futures.
Consider:
-
Could your school timetable accommodate a weekly session for EPQ students?
-
Might the Headstart CPD course be a good first step to gaining confidence in the subject matter?
-
Do you have pupils who would benefit from this kind of independent research opportunity – particularly those who might not typically see themselves as tech-savvy?
You could explore activities such as:
-
A module taster session during a computing lesson to spark interest.
-
A lunchtime club focused on cybersecurity, using materials from the Moodle.
-
Encouraging students to use Cyber EPQ modules to inform NEA projects or personal statements.
Further Resources