Knockevin Special School receives cyber security award

Knockevin Special School receives cyber security award

24 February 2021

KNOCKEVIN Special School in Downpatrick has been recognised for its high standard of cyber security teaching for the first time.

It was one of five other schools and colleges to have received CyberFirst Schools and Colleges’ Gold, Silver and Bronze awards from the National Cyber Security Centre (NCSC) in a scheme supported by the NI Cyber Security Centre within the Department of Finance.

Knockevin received a bronze award and was the first special school to be included in the scheme.

Principal Sara Liddell said her school was delighted to be part of the CyberFirst Scheme as it continued on its journey to “excellence in cyber security education”.

She remarked: “Knockevin are delighted to be the first special school to achieve the prestigious bronze CyberFirst status. We firmly believe in the rights of all young people to access high quality cyber security education, regardless of disability.

“We aim to ensure that we develop and adapt our cyber programmes to be meaningful and meet the needs of all pupils in our school. We are delighted to be part of the CyberFirst Scheme as we continue on our journey towards delivering excellence in cyber security education.”

Stormont Finance Minister Conor Murphy congratulated all the award winners. He said: “The cyber world is very much part of our everyday lives and it is great to see that local schools and colleges are leading the way when it comes to developing digital skills and cyber security education.

“This recognition is well deserved and I am particularly pleased to see that one of our local special schools is the first to receive an award too.”

Education Minister Peter Weir, who added his support, said: “We all know the internet is a rich source of information and entertainment. However, it is vital that young people are aware of the potential dangers and are protected and educated on appropriate and responsible usage.

“Teachers and parents play a crucial role in supporting children to identify the risks and make the most of technology.”