Blackburn College part of Strategic Command bursary scheme

The Strategic Command scheme, coordinated through the Lancashire Skills and Employment Hub, is designed to increase the number of school leavers studying science, technology, engineering and maths.

Blackburn College is one of four colleges in the country – all of which are in Lancashire – to be selected for the scheme.

It comes as the National Cyber Force headquarters are being relocated to Samlesbury.

The bursary scheme begins this academic year and successful applicants receive a two-year bursary and a high-performance laptop, plus a range of mentoring and development opportunities to best prepare them for their future career.

Recipients will also be encouraged to pursue careers in defence – such as at the Cyber Force or in the military or national security services.

Students at the college were made aware of the range of roles available in digital and cyber-defence when Lieutenant General Tom Copinger-Symes, deputy commander of Strategic Command, visited earlier this year.

Fazal Dad, principal and chief executive of Blackburn College, said: “We are extremely excited to be able to offer this fantastic opportunity for our students to develop their skills and take on the important jobs of tomorrow.

“We continue to invest in our campus and facilities to ensure that we are arming our students with the right skills, knowledge and experience needed by employers.

“The College has made a significant £1.2 million investment in computer sciences, networking and cyber security, data science and software development, exposing students to cutting-edge technologies.”

General Sir Jim Hockenhull announced the bursary during a keynote speech at Defence and Security Equipment International (DSEI), saying he wants to attract a new type of military workforce and offer the opportunity of work of national importance.

Information on the application process for this exciting scheme will be shared with students soon.