Calling all teachers across Wales. It is time to bring real cyber excitement into your classroom. The Cyber Explorers Cup 2026 is back and bigger than ever, offering a free, UK-wide online cyber security competition for students aged 11 to 14.
This is a fantastic opportunity to inspire young people, build essential digital skills, and give pupils an exciting challenge that fits perfectly into the school calendar.
🧠 What is the Cyber Explorers Cup?
The Cyber Explorers Cup is an interactive, online competition built on the UK government’s Cyber Explorers learning programme. The programme is completely free and introduces students to key cyber security concepts through engaging, gamified learning.
During the competition, pupils work in teams to tackle real-world inspired cyber challenges. They must solve puzzles, think critically, and race against the clock to help the Cyber Squad save Cyber City’s Smart Mall.
Teams will:
🤝 Work together to solve engaging cyber security scenarios
🧩 Apply what they have learned through the Cyber Explorers platform
⏱️ Compete in a timed one-hour session during competition week
🏫 Take on schools from across the UK
🏆 Compete to become Cyber Explorers Cup Champions for their nation
There are also exciting rewards available, including technology vouchers for schools and exclusive Cyber Explorers assemblies for winning teams.
📅 Important Dates for Your Diary
- Entry deadline: 6 March 2026
- Competition week: 16 to 20 March 2026
- Winner announcements: 1 April 2026
- Format: Online, so schools can take part directly from the classroom
💡 Why Take Part?
The Cyber Explorers Cup is more than a competition. It is a powerful learning experience that supports digital education and future career awareness.
By entering, your school will:
✔ Help students develop practical cyber and digital skills
✔ Boost confidence, teamwork, and problem-solving abilities
✔ Access a ready-made enrichment opportunity with minimal preparation
✔ Showcase your commitment to future-focused learning
✔ Introduce pupils to exciting cyber and technology career pathways
Because the Cup builds on the free Cyber Explorers programme, students feel confident applying their knowledge in a fun, competitive environment.
What Wales’ 2025 winners have to say
Beyond the prizes, the competition itself really captured students’ interest in cyber security and has influenced many to choose IT at GCSE.
Anwen Worsfold, IT teacher, Ysgol Gyfun Gymraeg Llangynwyd
Sign Up and Get Involved
Now is the perfect time to get your students involved. Register your school and teams today
Please note that students must be signed up to the Cyber Explorers platform before taking part in the competition.
Whether you are new to cyber education or already delivering digital learning, the Cyber Explorers Cup 2026 is an exciting and accessible way to engage your students. Do not miss this opportunity to inspire the next generation of cyber talent. Sign up now and let the challenge begin.
