The CyberFirst Girls Competition was launched on 18 January and we have been inundated with responses. Over 600 schools have pre-registered for this challenging competition. There’s some really talented and enthusiastic girls out there, showcasing various websites, blogs and apps they’re working on.
Our favourite story though has to be one girl who has sent us a message in code. What an amazing way to get noticed and without a shadow of a doubt it did the trick!
As you might know, we’ve got some very talented people here who just love a challenge so they instantly threw themselves into breaking this code and you’ll also be pleased to know it was successfully cracked. Just to prove it, the question was about whether she was old enough to compete. The team have composed a suitable response in Python (her preferred computing language), with a bit of a puzzle thrown in to answer her question and to thank our fellow coder.
We thought the coded message was great, but please save your cyber talents for the competition itself. :o)
The team have been grinning from ear-to-ear as it’s always inspiring to see the amount of cyber talent and passion out there. We want to encourage and nurture this talent because there are some amazing cyber security careers ready to be pursued. As our Director said:
“I work alongside some truly brilliant women who protect the UK from all manner of online threats. The CyberFirst Girls competition allows teams of young girls a glimpse of this exciting world and provides a great opportunity to use new skills. Enjoy the experience and I look forward to meeting some of you.”
So check if you’re eligible to enter, pre-register, build a team and tell your social network. We’re looking forward to challenging you all!
Ian E.
National Cyber Skills Lead
Source: National Cyber Security Centre
