Our year 13 Computer Science learners were visited by The Defence Science and Technology Laboratory for an exciting ELP on cyber security and ethical hacking. Learners were given various tasks which challenged them to put Virtual Machines and the Kali Linux operating system to practical use. 

The DSTL provides world-class science and technology expertise for the UK’s security and defence. Working closely with the government, DSTL have been integral to security and safety of this country. There are six of sites across the country and our visitors work at the headquarters in Porton Down. 

Throughout the two-day ELP, learners were challenged to use their computing skills to tackle real life scenarios that the DSTL face when working to keep the nation safe. After completing various exercises to familiarise themselves with the coding programmes, methods and skills used by the DSTL, learners were set the exciting task of creating a code that will identify and intercept a drone and bring it to a safe landing. This task reflects one of the threats that the DSTL must tackle on a regular basis. Drones can be used for several criminal activities. The DSTL must be alert to this danger and respond in ways to avert danger and minimise risk.  

This task pushed the learners to the limits of critical thinking as they worked in teams to apply the skills they had gathered over the two-day ELP in order to successfully monitor and intercept the drones. With the support of our visitors from DSTL, many of the teams completed the task and saw their code successfully detect and bring down the drone. 

Computer Science learner Lukas shared that, ‘This ELP has been really informative and interesting. We got to work with drones and other equipment that we’ve never used before. It’s been fascinating to see all the technology that the DSTL use in their operations. We’ve had a great time trying to hack and stop the drones.’ 

Thanks to DSTL for helping our learners to better understand key aspects of the Computer Science curriculum and also broadening their career prospects by demonstrasting an exciting career pathway that. Computer Science can lead to. Many learners have already enquired about a future work experience, career or apprenticeship opportunity with DSTL!