In today’s digital world, inspiring students into cybersecurity is more than a career pathway – it’s a public good. Across the UK, the CyberFirst programme is delivering measurable results towards this and in Wales, we’re not just keeping pace – we’re stepping up CyberFirst Wales social impact.
According to the newly published CyberFirst Social Value Report 2025, the initiative has delivered a record-breaking £41.4 million in social value nationwide, from a £6.9 million investment. That’s a £5.94 return for every £1 spent.
In Wales, we’ve seen year-on-year growth.
In 2023–24, the CyberFirst ecosystem in Wales delivered a strong £7.64 return per £1 invested. This year, we’ve taken it even further, achieving an impressive £8.41 social return on investment across our national ecosystem.
That improvement is not just a number, it’s a signal of deepening impact and smarter, more inclusive delivery.
Here’s what that looks like in practice:
- £1.95 million in ecosystem social value, up from £1.6m last year
- £955k through the CyberFirst Girls’ Competition, closing gender gaps in cyber
- £370k via the CyberFirst Bursary, helping Welsh students thrive without financial barriers
- £185k from extra-curricular activities, giving young people hands-on exposure to real-world cyber learning
So, what’s driving this progress in Wales?
Through our structured Engagement Framework, every awarded school in Wales receives consistent, coordinated outreach. By delivering the right interventions, at the right time, for the right students, we’re building interest in cyber where it matters most.
We’re also proud to work hand-in-hand with the National Digital Exploitation Centre (NDEC)—a Welsh Government-funded initiative delivered by Thales and the University of South Wales. Together, we’re filling the gap in primary cyber inspiration, especially in areas of economic deprivation. This alignment means our reach is not only wider—it’s fairer.
As one regional partner noted in the report:
“By coordinating the CyberFirst and NDEC efforts, greater equity in access has been created for the schools which need the most support in engaging with cyber and computing outreach.”
What does CyberFirst Wales social impact add up to?
- More diverse students engaging with cyber from a young age
- Stronger pathways into computing and cybersecurity subjects
- A growing local pipeline of tech talent
- Enhanced wellbeing, confidence, and career aspirations
- Local economic benefit through volunteer hours, SME spend, and regional investment
CyberFirst in Wales is not just creating cyber skills—it’s creating social value in every sense: educationally, economically, and socially.
Let’s continue building on this momentum. If you’re a business, educator, policymaker, or potential volunteer—get involved. The returns are measurable. But more importantly, they’re meaningful.
Read the full report here.
How do I apply for a CyberFirst award?
There is an application that you will need to complete – we’ll support you through the entire process with draft reviews, and step-by-step guidance. There is no fixed deadline, so you can submit when you feel confident!
