Cyber Defender & Responder Level 4 Apprenticeship
Strengthen networks with active defence and incident response skills
The Cyber Defender and Responder Level 4 Apprenticeship Programme develops highly capable cybersecurity specialists who proactively defend networks, monitor threats, and respond to cyber incidents effectively.
Trusted by 4,000+ organisations
Why choose the Cyber Risk Analyst programme?
Develop proactive cyber defence skills
Cyber security is the shield against digital threats. This programme equips learners with critical defence and response skills to help organisations identify breaches, mitigate cyber incidents, and secure networks against evolving threats.
Through safe but realistic hands-on training, apprentices gain the skills to strengthen resilience, reduce risks, and support business continuity.
- Hands-on immersive learning platform
- Secure cloud infrastructure
- Increase skills retention
Programme Overview
- Details of standard: Cyber Security Technologist
- Level: 4
- Total cost: £18,000
- Programme duration: 20 months
- Live instructor sessions: 18 days
Delivered in collaboration with our strategic vendor partners:
Entry requirements
Entry requirements for this programme are as follows:
- An A-Level in ICT
- OR an International Baccalaureate at Level 3 in ICT
- OR a Level 3 apprenticeship in a similar subject
- OR a BTEC Extended Diploma in IT (180 credits)
Learner journey
This programme combines live workshops, self-paced learning, and on-the-job application.
Learners are supported by a dedicated Digital Learning Consultant (DLC) and follow QA’s “Discover, Practise, Apply” methodology.
Modules | 16 months
Module 1: Introduction to Cyber Security
Module 2: Networking Fundamentals
Module 3: Operating Systems with Programming and Scripting
Module 4: Security Foundations
Module 5: Security Management
Module 6: Active Defence
Module 7: Cloud Security
Module 8: Blue Team Operations
EPA | 4 months
- Professional discussion
- Scenario demonstrations with questioning
- Work-based project with report
- Knowledge test
Optional certifications
- Certified Blue Team Level 1: CBT1
- NIST Cyber Security Framework Foundation
Qualification
IfATE CTS4 Qualification Award
Job roles
This programme is suitable for multiple roles, such as:
- Cyber Security Consultant
- Cyber Security Analyst
- Cyber Risk Analyst
- Intelligence Researcher
- Cyber Security Specialist
- Information Security Analyst
- Governance & Compliance Analyst
- Information Security Assurance & Threat Analyst
- Information Security Auditor
Funding
There is no cost to you as an apprentice. Apprenticeships are fully funded through your employer.
If you are an employer, the maximum funding for this programme is £18,000. Expenses for travel to QA centres should be covered by the employer.
Find out how your organisation could benefit from the Apprenticeship Levy.
Tools and technologies
Apprentices will learn to use a variety of tools and technologies, including:
Network simulation and security tools
- Packet Tracer
- Kali Linux
- PowerShell
Security information and event management tools
- SEIM Tools
Cloud platforms
- Azure
- AWS
- GCP
Remote labs and learning platforms
- Project Ares
- Security Blue Team
- GoToMyPC
- Learning on Demand
Digital by Design
Our market-leading approach accelerates skill development and achievement through our Discover, Practise, Apply methodology, ensuring that both learners and employers are fully supported throughout their programme.
Discover
Leveraging QA’s learning platform, learners follow a development path focused on their job role.
Practise
Learners come together for instructor-led training sessions, practising their skills through hands-on labs and sandboxes in a safe environment.
Apply
These learnings are applied through work-based activities at key and sequenced stages, supported by Digital Learning Consultants.
Cyber Defender & Responder downloads
Download programme guideWhat our learners say
"I saw data as something that is always going to be needed in every company. I wanted learn somewhere with hands-on experience, which I would say is as important as the qualification, and that's something that you get much more in an apprenticeship. In my day-to-day role I troubleshoot people's issues and make databases to make everyone's life easier.”
“Originally I was trying to get into med school but couldn’t garner enough funding. I had heard about apprenticeships in school before so I thought I should give that a try. Now, I’m getting paid to learn something I love to do and I really do feel I could become anything and that the sky’s the limit. I think apprenticeships are inclusive, flexible, and challenging.”
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