Cybersecurity is one of the fastest-growing sectors in the UK, with thousands of unfilled roles and a chronic shortage of skilled professionals. The good news? You don’t need a computer science degree or years of technical experience to get started. What you need is the right approach.
Why Cybersecurity Is Worth Pursuing
The UK government’s Cyber Security Sectoral Analysis 2024 found there are over 160,000 cybersecurity professionals working in the UK — but demand is outpacing supply. Entry-level roles regularly start at £28,000–£35,000, with rapid progression for those who demonstrate the right skills and attitude.
Start With the Fundamentals
Before anything else, build a solid understanding of the basics:
- CompTIA Security+ — the industry’s most recognised entry-level certification. It covers networking, threats, cryptography and risk management.
- Google Cybersecurity Certificate — available on Coursera, self-paced, and a great starting point if you’re completely new.
- TryHackMe / Hack The Box — free and paid platforms where you can practise real-world scenarios in a safe, legal environment.
What Employers Actually Look For at Entry Level
Hiring managers at this level aren’t expecting you to know everything. They’re looking for:
- Curiosity and a willingness to keep learning
- Basic understanding of networking (TCP/IP, DNS, firewalls)
- Familiarity with common threats (phishing, malware, ransomware)
- Problem-solving ability under pressure
- Clear communication — you’ll need to explain technical issues to non-technical people
The Mentorship Advantage
One of the most underrated routes into cybersecurity is working with a mentor who is already in the industry. A good mentor doesn’t just teach you technical skills — they help you understand how real organisations operate, what threats look like in practice, and how to position yourself for your first role.
At Wavingtrees, our training programme pairs candidates with experienced cybersecurity professionals who guide you from upskilling through to job placement.
Your Next Step
If you’re serious about a career in cybersecurity, don’t wait until you feel “ready.” Start with one certification, build a habit of daily learning, and get support from people who’ve already made the journey.
Get in touch with our team to find out how we can help you take the first step.