CyberFirst is proud to support the ACE-CSE Cyber Security Competition 2026 – a free, nationwide challenge designed to inspire young people to explore the exciting world of cyber security.
Led by the University of South Wales in partnership with other ACE-CSE (Academic Centres of Excellence in Cyber Security Education) universities across the UK, this competition gives students the chance to tackle real-world cyber challenges, develop critical skills, and have fun along the way. ACE-CSE universities are recognised by the National Cyber Security Centre (NCSC) for delivering outstanding cyber security education and helping to address the UK’s growing skills gap.
Who Can Take Part?
- Students aged 14–18 (Years 10–13) in full-time education
- Teams of up to 4 students from the same school or college (mixed ages and genders welcome)
- Open to all students, regardless of whether they currently study digital or computing subjects
- Schools and colleges in the UK
Why Take Part?
- Develop critical thinking and cyber awareness
- Work as a team to solve challenges and strengthen communication skills
- Compete nationally with prizes up for grabs
- Represent your school at a live final hosted by an ACE university
- No prior cyber knowledge required — just curiosity, enthusiasm, and a love of problem-solving
Competition Format
Sign up: Team registration opens 5th October and closes at on 25th October 2026.
Round 1 (Online): Runs 9th November – 28th November 2026
- Teams receive a set of problem-solving questions and brain teasers
- Activities can be completed in any order and printed if preferred
- All answers are submitted together via Microsoft Forms
- Materials and instructions will be sent to each team’s nominated teacher
Final Round: Successful teams will be invited to a live, in-person final at their chosen ACE university in late February or March 2027. More details will be shared closer to the event.
This competition offers a fun, inclusive, and competitive environment to explore cyber security, build valuable skills, and represent your school at a national level. CyberFirst is delighted to support the ACE Cyber Security Competition and help inspire the next generation of cyber talent.
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