Level 4 Cyber Defend Apprenticeship (Warwick)

Based in Warwick
Course: Level 4 Cyber Security Technologist 
Programme Length: 2 years
Provider: Firebrand  

Join us and help be the energy behind the change.

National Gas is the backbone of Britain’s energy system. We keep gas moving safely and reliably to power stations, industry and over 23 million homes, while also leading the way towards a cleaner, net zero future. As the UK’s energy system becomes more digital and more connected, protecting it has never been more important.

Cyber security plays a vital role in keeping the lights on and the gas flowing, protecting the physical, corporate and digital systems that keep people warm and safe. As a Cyber Technologist Apprentice in our Cyber Protect team, you’ll be based in our Warwick office and will work across areas that help keep our people, systems and data safe. 

You’ll learn how we defend our organisation from cyber threats and gain exposure to both technical security and real world protective work across the business.

What you’ll be doing

As a Cyber Technologist Apprentice at National Gas, you’ll blend practical, hands on learning with dedicated training, giving you the skills and experience you need to begin a career in cyber security. 

You’ll be part of our Cyber Protect team, where you’ll work alongside experienced cyber specialists who help protect National Gas from cyber threats. You’ll learn how we keep our systems, data and critical infrastructure safe, everything from our physical buildings to the digital technology that keeps gas flowing across the country. 

During your apprenticeship, you’ll get involved in real cyber security work across our Protect and Detect functions. This could include learning how we monitor cyber threats, understanding how security tools work, supporting investigations, helping maintain security controls, and getting insights into physical security too. You’ll be working with people from all over the organisation, learning how cyber security fits into the bigger picture of keeping the UK’s energy secure. 

Alongside your on the job learning, you’ll study towards your Level 4 Cyber Technologist qualification with Firebrand, building key skills such as problem solving, analysing security risks, understanding how systems can be protected, and using security tools and technologies. This apprenticeship gives you everything you need to start a strong career in one of the fastest growing areas of the energy industry. 

Throughout the programme, you’ll receive regular feedback, support and guidance to help you develop. You’ll follow a personalised training plan, ensuring you build confidence and gain experience at a pace that suits you. By the time you finish, you’ll have the technical understanding, workplace experience and professional qualification you need to take the next step in your cyber security career.

About You

This apprenticeship is ideal for someone who’s motivated, enjoys learning new things and isn’t afraid to get stuck in. You don’t need any previous cyber security experience to apply, as what matters most is that you have a genuine interest in cyber security, a willingness to learn, and the drive to take ownership of your work. If you’re passionate about solving problems and curious about how things work, you’ll fit right in.

You’ll be working with different people across the business, so having good communication and collaboration skills, along with the confidence to talk to others and ask questions, will really help you succeed. You’ll also be trusted with sensitive information, so being responsible and able to keep things confidential is important. Over the course of your apprenticeship, you’ll gain the skills and knowledge you need to become a well-rounded cyber professional.

The Essentials

This is a 2-year fixed-term apprenticeship. To be considered for this scheme, you’ll need:

• A minimum of 5 GCSEs or a passing score on a BKSB assessment or a level 3 qualification in a relevant subject (ideally STEM/Digital subjects). This must include Maths and English.
• A cover letter is essential to help us understand why you're a great fit for the role. Check out our guidance below!
• As part of our Hybrid working approach, your time will be split between office days (primarily at the Warwick Head Office) and working from home.
• You'll need to have permanent right to work in the UK for the entirety of this programme, as we are unable to offer visa sponsorship for this role.
• As you’ll be working on Critical National Infrastructure, you’ll also need to pass enhanced National Security Vetting, meaning you’ll need to be able to provide a 5-year UK address history. Your eligibility for certain roles may be affected by your place of birth, nationality, current or former citizenship, and any residency you hold or have held. Further details are available at United Kingdom Security Vetting: clearance levels - GOV.UK (www.gov.uk)

Studies suggest that women tend to apply only if they meet 100% of the criteria. If you resonate with our mission, the role excites you and your skills align, we encourage you to apply.

What should you include in your cover letter?

A cover letter is a chance for us to get to know you as a person – we understand you may not have workplace experience yet, and that’s absolutely fine! Let us know about your personal qualities and interests. Your cover letter should be no more than one A4 page. Make sure it includes:

• Why you’re interested in working at National Gas
• What personal skills and qualities you have that would make you a great apprentice
• Why you want to become a Cyber Technologist Apprentice. This could be anything from an interest in Cyber Security or practical, hands‑on activities to enjoying technology and how it works.

What you can expect from us

You’ll receive a range of benefits that reward your great work.  

• Starting annual salary of £24,242, with annual performance-based increases
• A generous holiday allowance of 26 days plus statutory bank holidays, with the option to buy and sell additional days (capped at 5 days)
• 2 paid days each financial year to volunteer for a worthwhile cause
• A generous pension scheme with a double-match contribution – if you contribute 6%, we’ll contribute 12%, helping you build a strong financial future
• Professional development and career progression
• Employee assistance programme offering free confidential professional counselling 24 hours per day 

At National Gas, we pride ourselves on a supportive and collaborative work environment. We understand the importance of maintaining a healthy work-life balance and support our employees in achieving it. We strive to create an inclusive environment where everyone can perform at their best. Whether you’re starting out after school or looking to build on your existing experience, you’ll find an apprenticeship where you’re valued, supported, and encouraged from the moment you join.

You'll be mentored by experienced professionals and have opportunities to work on impactful projects. We ensure that you gain hands-on experience, with opportunities for career advancement and professional development. 

We encourage all apprentices to take ownership of their journey. You'll strive to grow and develop, taking advantage of all that National Gas has to offer. 

The 'nice to knows'

You'll start in a large cohort of other graduates and apprentices, where you'll attend an in-person induction in early September 2026, fostering strong workplace relationships that will build the foundation of your future networks.

Your next steps…

You'll be offered additional support and guidance throughout the application process by our Early Careers team. Eligible applications will be reviewed by a human, every step of the way.

You’re only able to apply for one of our apprenticeship schemes, so please consider this carefully. When reviewing your application, if we feel you might be a good fit for something else, we'll be sure to let you know.

If your online application is successful, you’ll be invited to complete a virtual solo-interview. The final stage is then an in-person Assessment with the team you’ll be joining, so please keep this in mind. Support is available towards travel costs if required.

Applications close on Sunday 8th March 2026.  Each year, we receive a large volume of applications, so we'd encourage you to apply early.

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At National Gas we value everyone's unique contributions and perspectives. If you require reasonable adjustments to complete the application process, please contact us at earlycareers@nationalgas.com