Whether you’re curious about technology, thinking about university, or just want to do something genuinely useful this summer — this free course is built for you.
Part of the Mayor’s Fund for London Holiday Hope programme, the Cyber Essentials Course at Northumbria University London gives young Londoners a real taste of higher education — in a relaxed, welcoming environment — alongside practical cyber skills that employers actually want.
What You’ll Gain
- Real Cyber Skills: Hands-on learning in cyber essentials — one of the most in-demand fields in the UK job market right now.
- Free Daily Lunch: A nutritious meal provided every day. No need to worry about bringing food or spending money.
- University Experience: See what studying in a London city campus actually feels like — no pressure, just curiosity welcome.
- A Route Into Uni: Learn about our flexible admissions, including reduced offers for young Londoners from all backgrounds.
Pick Your Week
Two identical courses run across the summer — grab a spot on whichever week works best for you. Spaces are limited to 30 per course.
Course 1
- Dates: Monday 27 July – Friday 31 July 2026
- Times: 10:00 – 14:30 each day (lunch included)
- Sign-up deadline: 20 July 2026
- Sign Up: please email carly.foster@northumbria.ac.uk to sign up
Course 2
- Dates: Monday 17 August – Friday 21 August 2026
- Times: 10:00 – 14:30 each day (lunch included)
- Sign-up deadline: 10 August 2026
- Sign Up: please email carly.foster@northumbria.ac.uk to sign up
Where We Are
The campus is easy to reach from across London, close to Liverpool Street, Aldgate and Bishopsgate.
Northumbria University London
110–114 Middlesex Street, London, E1 7HT
- Liverpool Street (Underground) — 5 minute walk
- Aldgate (Underground) — 10 minute walk
- Aldgate East (Underground) — 15 minute walk
- Bishopsgate (Bus) — 5 minute walk
Is This For Me?
This course is open to any young Londoner aged 16–24. You don’t need any previous experience with technology. You just need to be curious.
If you’ve taken part in a Holiday Hope activity before, or if any of the following apply to you, you may also be eligible for a reduced university offer if you decide to apply for a degree later:
- Previous Holiday Hope participant
- From an area with low rates of progression to higher education
- Care experienced
- Black, Asian or Minority Ethnic background
- Eligible for free school meals
- First in your family to go to university
- LGBTQ+
- Has unpaid caring responsibilities
- Connected to the Armed Forces (serving or family member)
- Estranged from parents
- Refugee or asylum seeker status
- Gypsy, Roma, Traveller, Showmen or Boater community
- Student parent or has parenting responsibilities
- Living with a physical or mental health condition, long-term illness or learning difference
Not sure if you qualify? Apply anyway — we look at each application individually and we’re here to help. The course itself is open to all young Londoners aged 16–24 regardless of background.
The Course Is Just the Beginning
If you enjoy the week and start thinking about university, Northumbria University London offers undergraduate degrees in some of the most sought-after fields in London:
- Cyber Security Technology
- Artificial Intelligence
- Computing and Technology
- Data Science and Big Data Technology
- International Banking and Finance
- Global Business Management
- Enterprise and Innovation Management
- Tourism and Hospitality Management
Our programmes are delivered flexibly in blended study modes — designed for people who are juggling life, work and ambition. You’ll work on real employer projects, take on short internships, and be taught by people with genuine industry experience.
Holiday Hope graduates who go on to study with us can even earn academic credits by giving back — supporting future summer school participants as part of their degree. It’s education that keeps paying forward.
How to Reserve Your Free Place
Spaces are limited to 30 per course, so don’t leave it too late. Here’s how to secure your spot:
- Check the deadline for your preferred week. Course 1 closes 20 July · Course 2 closes 10 August.
- Apply through the Northumbria University London website. You’ll need your name, contact details, age and a brief note about yourself.
- Receive your confirmation. You’ll get an email confirming your place. Keep it — you may need it if you later apply for a contextual university offer.
- Show up and get stuck in. Come to 110–114 Middlesex Street at 10:00 on the Monday of your week. Lunch is on us.
Northumbria University London · 110–114 Middlesex Street, London, E1 7HT
