The inaugural event took place at Co-op Academy Walkden, where around 300 students aged 13-14 took part in an interactive session led by some of the most respected names in the cybersecurity world.

Students heard from:

• Mivy James, Chief Digital and Technology Officer at the Ministry of Defence
• Greg Francis, cyber offender prevention consultant at 4D Cyber Security and former SOCA/NCA cybercrime investigator
• Chris Kubecka, internationally recognised cyberwarfare expert

Together, they offered honest insights into the realities of cybersecurity, the importance of ethical hacking, and the wide range of future career opportunities available to young people with digital skills.

The Inspire Session is part of a wider national partnership between Co-op and The Hacking Games - an initiative created to identify young digital talent early and guide them toward positive pathways.

Alongside these school events, the programme will grow to include mentoring opportunities and routes into apprenticeships and careers across the cybersecurity sector.

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What our partners said

Rob Elsey, Chief Digital and Information Officer at Co-op, said:

“We want to show young people that their digital skills can make a real difference. The partnership with The Hacking Games is about prevention through opportunity, helping young people to see a future for themselves in tech and using those skills to protect rather than harm. This first Inspire Session is an exciting step in turning that ambition into action.”

Fergus Hay, Co-founder and CEO of The Hacking Games, said:

“The scale of untapped digital talent across the UK is huge. Many young people have the potential to thrive in cybersecurity if given the right direction and role models. This partnership with Co-op is about meeting them early, showing them what’s possible and inspiring a new generation of ethical hackers.”

Chris Kubecka, international cyberwarfare expert, said:

“Cybersecurity isn’t just about defending systems, it’s about protecting people and communities. By introducing young minds to ethical hacking early, we’re giving them the chance to use their skills for good and build careers that make a real difference. Today’s session shows that curiosity can be a powerful force for positive change.”

Lily, a student at Co-op Academy Walkden, said:

“My key takeaway from The Hacking Games was realising that you can hack ethically - and be paid for it - which opens up the possibility of a career where you can travel. I’m interested in coding and ICT, so a career in ethical hacking and cybersecurity is definitely something I might pursue. I found Chris particularly inspirational; it was motivating to hear how she achieved great success despite coming from a more troubled background.”

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The partnership between Co-op and The Hacking Games was first announced in July 2025 as part of Co-op’s long-term commitment to tackling the root causes of cybercrime and creating fair opportunities for young people.

By combining the reach of 38 Co-op Academies with The Hacking Games’ expertise in digital skills and offender prevention, the programme aims to empower thousands of young people to use their abilities for good - shaping a safer digital future for everyone.