Are you curious about cyber security but unsure how to break into the field? The Bridewell Academy, in partnership with WiCyS UK & Ireland, might be exactly what you’re looking for.

This 18-month programme is designed to recruit and train entry-level cyber security talent, no prior experience required. Just bring your curiosity, motivation, and a desire to make a real impact.

A Partnership with Purpose

WiCyS UK & Ireland is proud to collaborate with Bridewell to support the Bridewell Academy. Our shared mission is clear: to build a more inclusive, diverse, and accessible cybersecurity workforce.

Together, we’re opening doors for women and underrepresented groups to take that crucial first step into a cyber career.

What the Bridewell Academy Offers

The Academy provides paid, fixed-term positions that blend formal training, hands-on experience, and mentorship from seasoned professionals. You’ll:

1. Develop technical and professional skills in either Consulting or Managed Services

2. Work on real client projects and earn industry-recognised certifications

3. Receive guidance from a dedicated mentor and career development framework

Graduates have already gone on to thrive in consulting, managed services, and cyber operations roles.

Who Can Apply?

Bridewell sets the eligibility criteria. To apply, you’ll need:

• To be eligible for UK security clearance (UK national or resident for at least five years)

• A Cyber Security degree or equivalent, or completion of a cyber-focused training course or bootcamp

• A detailed background check, including any criminal or financial history

How WiCyS Supports You

We’re here to help you put your best foot forward. WiCyS UK & Ireland is offering:

• A CV writing toolkit tailored for the Academy application

• A blog post to help you understand the roles available

• CV review and feedback for the first 5 WiCyS members who apply (limited slots!)

• Interview prep sessions in December

If you’ve been thinking about a career in cyber security, this is your moment.

When & How Do I Join The Spring 2026 Bridewell Academy Cohort?

📅 Applications are now open: Friday, 10th November
🔗 Apply here: https://www.bridewell.com/bridewell-academy 

Two Cyber Career Pathways, One Powerful Start: Inside the Bridewell Academy

Breaking into cybersecurity can feel overwhelming, but it doesn’t have to be. The Bridewell Academy, supported by WiCyS UK & Ireland, offers a clear and structured route into the industry through two distinct career pathways: Consulting and Analyst. Whether you're drawn to strategic problem-solving or hands-on technical defence, Bridewell’s 9-month roadmap sets you up for success.

Let’s explore what each pathway looks like and how you’ll grow from day one.

Pathway 1: Consulting

If you’re interested in advising clients, shaping security strategies, and working across diverse projects, the Consulting track is for you.

📅 First 3 Months

• Onboarding at Bridewell’s Cardiff office

• Assigned a mentor and buddy for guidance

• Complete SANS Foundations training

• Dive into Bridewell’s Learning Management System courses

🔍 Months 3–6

• Shadow experienced consultants

• Gain client-facing exposure with your hiring manager

🚨 Months 6–9

• Begin working in Salesforce and contributing to project delivery

• Meet utilisation targets and expectations

• Earn certifications: ISO 27001 Lead Implementer & Auditor, CISMP

• Graduate as a Bridewell Academy Certified Consultant

This pathway builds your confidence in client engagement, project delivery, and compliance frameworks—ideal for those who enjoy strategic thinking and communication.

Pathway 2: Analyst

Prefer to be on the front lines of cyber defence? The Analyst track prepares you for life in a Security Operations Centre (SOC), where you’ll monitor threats and respond to incidents in real time.

📅 First 3 Months

• Onboarding at Bridewell’s Cardiff office

• Assigned a mentor and buddy for support

• Complete SANS Foundations training

• Access Bridewell’s Learning Management System courses

🔍 Months 3–6

• Shadow SOC Analysts

• Gain client-facing exposure with your hiring manager

🚨 Months 6–9

• Transition into SOC shift patterns

• Complete Microsoft SC-200 and CREST Analyst training

• Graduate as a Bridewell Academy Certified Analyst

This pathway is perfect for those who thrive in fast-paced environments and want to develop deep technical expertise in threat detection and response.

Why Structure Matters

Bridewell’s Academy doesn’t just throw you into the deep end, it provides a scaffolded learning experience with mentorship, certifications, and real-world exposure. By the end of the 9-month journey, you’ll be equipped to step confidently into a cyber security role, whether that’s consulting with clients or defending networks from threats.

Cyber security needs diverse thinkers, and Bridewell Academy is designed to nurture talent from all backgrounds. With two tailored pathways, you can choose the route that aligns with your strengths and career goals.

Ready to take the first step? Applications for the Spring 2026 cohort are now open. Whether you see yourself as a consultant or an analyst, Bridewell and WiCyS UK & Ireland are here to support your journey.