The NHS Cyber Security Apprenticeship Scheme cohort 2

The NHS’s shift towards digital health and the rise in sophisticated cyber security threats have reinforced the need for a robust cyber security workforce within the NHS.

Following the success of the first cohort which began in September 2025, the Cyber Profession is delighted to be inviting Expressions of Interest for the second cohort of the L4 Cyber Security Technologist Apprenticeship which will start in September 2026.

Designed to attract and nurture talent, the programme aligns with the Cyber security strategy for health and social care: 2023 to 2030. It also reflects the NHS’s dedication to providing career pathways, particularly for individuals seeking to upskill in an ever evolving digital landscape.

The level 4 (L4) Cyber Security Technologist Apprenticeship is a 24-month apprenticeship programme aimed at those who are looking to develop their knowledge and understanding of key cyber security concepts and techniques.

NHS England will be launching the second cohort of the L4 apprenticeship starting in September 2025. This cohort is only open to existing NHS staff where cyber forms part or all of your role. 

Once you enrol onto the apprenticeship programme, you will also become part of a wider NHS Cyber Security Apprenticeship Community.

This will provide you with further opportunities for networking and development within the profession and help you to build your cyber security career in the NHS.

Find out more details on the apprenticeship

The cyber security apprenticeship programme will be delivered through an online classroom, with the opportunity to attend free residential sessions at set intervals during the programme. There are other delivery options available if you prefer not to join the NHS England cohort.

During the programme, apprentices will have the opportunity to achieve the following industry recognised qualifications:

• CompTIA Network+
• CompTIA Security+
• EC-Council Certified Network Defender (CND)

The apprenticeship will be funded from your organisation’s apprenticeship levy or via a levy transfer (if required) therefore there is no cost burden for departments.

An overview of the Cyber Security Level 4 Apprenticeship Scheme can be found on the Cyber Associates Network site on NHS Futures. Please email [email protected] if you need access to this.

Next steps

Once interested candidates have received approval from line managers, they can speak to the organisation’s Apprenticeship Lead and complete the Expression of Interest form.