Free Level 3 Cyber Security Course in Liverpool

CostFREE
Duration2 years
LevelLevel 3
DeliveryClassroom based
Start1 Sep 2026
Study modeFull-time
AttendanceDaytime
Awarding bodyOCR awarding body

About this course

Free Level 3 Cyber Security and Networks Course in Liverpool. Classes run at The Academy of St Nicholas. You'll need at least four GCSEs at Grade 4 or above, including English or Maths, to get started. Over two years of full-time daytime study, you'll build practical skills in cyber security and networking, covering how digital systems are protected, how networks operate, and how threats are identified and managed. This level 3 cyber security and networks qualification is awarded by OCR.

Who this course is for

This course is for students who are interested in technology, computing, and digital security. It is ideal for those who want to develop practical skills in cyber security and networking and explore careers in IT, cyber security, or related fields. It suits learners who enjoy problem-solving, logical thinking, and working with technology.

Entry requirements

A minimum of four GCSEs at Grade 4 or above, including English or Maths.

An interest in computing and willingness to engage with technical and theoretical content. Prior experience in IT or Computer Science at GCSE level is helpful but not essential.

What you will learn

  • You'll learn how computer networks are structured and how data moves across them.
  • You'll explore common cyber threats, attack methods, and how organisations defend against them.
  • You'll develop skills in identifying and managing vulnerabilities in digital systems.
  • You'll understand the principles of network security, including firewalls, encryption, and access controls.
  • You'll apply logical problem-solving to real technical security scenarios.
  • You'll gain knowledge of relevant legislation and ethical responsibilities in cyber security.
  • You'll practise using tools and techniques used in IT security roles.

How you will learn

You'll learn through classroom-based lessons at The Academy of St Nicholas, combining theory with practical technical tasks. Assessment is through a mix of coursework and externally assessed components set by OCR. Some units are assessed through assignments you complete during the course; others are assessed through written exams or controlled assessments.

What you will need to bring

The centre will provide most materials. The Academy of St Nicholas will confirm anything else you need before you start.

Where next

Jobs you could do

  • Cyber security analyst: monitoring systems and responding to threats
  • Network support technician: maintaining and troubleshooting network infrastructure
  • IT security technician: protecting systems and data from attack
  • Junior penetration tester: testing systems for security weaknesses
  • IT support analyst: resolving technical issues across an organisation
  • Network administrator: managing and configuring network systems

What you could study next

  • Degree in Cyber Security or Computer Science: a natural next step if you want to deepen your technical knowledge and move into specialist or senior roles.
  • Level 4 or Level 5 Higher National Certificate (HNC/HND) in Computing or Networking: a shorter higher-education route that can lead directly into employment or top up to a degree.
  • CompTIA Security+ or similar vendor certifications: industry-recognised credentials that many employers look for when hiring for cyber security analyst roles.