Cookstown High School Year 12 Digital Technology students recently emerged victorious in the highly competitive RFCA NI Schools Cyber Challenge 2023. The competition that was designed to simulate real-world cyber threats, required participants to navigate through complex scenarios and identify vulnerabilities. It was organised by Reserve Forces and Cadets Association NI and was run in collaboration with the NATO Cyber Security team from Belgium, attracting participants from schools across the province.
Amidst stiff competition from 30 other teams Cookstown High School team, rose to the challenge to rank above some of the top schools in the Province. The team comprised of Year 12 GCSE Digital Technology students, who not only secured the top position but also showcased a collaborative spirit, composure under pressure and demonstrated exceptional problem-solving skills.
Particularly noteworthy is that the school were the 2022 runners-up in this competition and in 2023, triumphed as both category and overall RFCA NI Cyber Challenge Winners.
Miss Evans Principal, expressing delight in the students' accomplishment, stated, that she was ‘thrilled that students had the opportunity to participate in such a unique event. The digital world is fast paced and brings enormous opportunities in the future as well as challenges. Students have a deeper appreciation of some of the complexities of the cyber world and the need to continually develop digital and problem-solving skills especially given that it is a growth industry in N Ireland. Students should be proud of their achievements; well done to all involved in the event.’
The Cyber Challenge day not only serves as a platform for students to test their skills but also provides the opportunity to explore further education and career options in the ever-evolving field of Computing, from leading cybersecurity firms and organisations throughout the province.
This year’s achievement not only brings success to the school but also raises the bar for future participants, inspiring a new generation of cybersecurity enthusiasts. Congratulations to the talented students on their outstanding performance in the Cyber Challenge.
Year 12 Digital Technology Pupils (Harry, Martins, Timothy, Timothy, Madisson, Ewan, Peter, Jamie)
Included in the Photograph: (Mrs Jayne White (Digital Technology Teacher), Mrs Gwyneth Evan (Principal), Mr Brian Sykes (Deputy Chief Executive of RFCA for NI)