PlanBEE CYBER SPONSORS

cyber security student
PlanBEE Cyber is a unique shared apprenticeship programme that aims to develop the next generation of cyber security professionals across the digital sector.

The programme was developed by Gateshead College, CyberNorth, and local industry partners to address the sector’s skills shortage, while providing a flexible and collaborative approach to workforce development.

The Higher Apprenticeship Cyber Security Technologist focuses on key areas of cyber defence, risk management, incident response, and network security. It combines study with working for leading companies in the cyber security field.

A second group of PlanBEE Cyber apprentices will start in January 2026, gaining hands-on experience working on major projects in the North East’s rapidly growing cyber sector.

Benefits:

  • Cost-effective and innovative: A practical solution for both large companies and SMEs to recruit and develop talented individuals through a flexible apprenticeship model.
  • Collaborative and employer-led: Working with other businesses to build a strong talent pipeline for the cyber sector.
  • Tailored Higher Apprenticeship: Designed by employers, the programme meets the specific needs of the cyber security industry.
  • Course content aligned with industry needs: Apprentices develop key technical and behavioural skills, including risk management, network security, and incident response.

How does the PlanBEE Cyber programme work?

PlanBEE Cyber is a shared apprenticeship scheme with apprentices employed by NEAC (Gateshead College) as the Flexi-Job Apprenticeship Agency.

Apprentices undertake multiple work placements over two years, hosted by different employer ‘sponsors’. By rotating between businesses, they gain a breadth of experience and insight into the diverse challenges and opportunities in the cyber security field.

From day one, apprentices become valued members of the team, spending four days a week working and one day at college.

Throughout the apprenticeship, apprentices develop a wide range of technical and behavioural skills, including problem-solving, analytical thinking, and communication, all of which are critical for success in the cyber security sector.

On completion of the programme, employers are able to fill skilled cyber security vacancies with PlanBEE Cyber graduates.

“At Northumbrian Water Group we believe that the future is shaped by the talent we nurture today. That’s why we are committed to championing apprenticeships like PlanBEE Cyber. We strive to reflect the communities we serve by building a workforce that is as diverse, dynamic, and forward-thinking as the world around us and PlanBEE Cyber embraces this. Together, we’re not just building careers we’re shaping a better future for our business and our community.”
– Anthony Smith, Head of Cyber Security at Northumbrian Water

If you’re interested in finding out more about becoming a PlanBEE sponsor, please get in touch.