What is Cyber Switch Up?
Powering young minds for a digital future
Cyber Switch Up is a digital & cyber skills competition aimed at students aged 11-18 years in Key Stages 3, 4 and 5.
Open to students in all secondary schools and colleges (including home-educated) across the Yorkshire & Humber region.
Free to participate Online Qualifier, which can be completed in school or at home.
Chance to compete at the in-person Live Finals Event in a number of different digital and cyber themed challenges.
Chance of winning merch, trophies and other cool tech prizes for Finalists and their respective school or college.
CHECK OUT OUR 2026 PROMO VIDEO!
Competition Format
The Online Qualifier is the first stage of Cyber Switch Up and is open to all students.
A series of short, interactive exercises and questions.
Covers exciting digital and cyber themes
One entry per student
Can be completed online at school or at home
Every participant receives an e‑certificate to recognise their achievement
A fun, accessible way to test skills, build confidence, and get involved — no prior experience needed.
ONLINE QUALIFIER OPEN TO EVERYONE!
The highest‑performing students from Key Stages 3, 4 and 5 will be invited to the Cyber Switch Up Live Finals Event.
Finalists will compete in hands‑on digital and cyber challenges in our exciting Challenge Arena, using a fast‑paced carousel format. There’s the chance to win merch, trophies, and cool tech prizes, plus enjoy inspiring keynote speakers and a fun, interactive Exhibition Hall.
An unforgettable day of learning, competition, and inspiration.
IN-PERSON FINALS
Key Dates
REGISTRATION OPEN NOW!
Online Qualifier 2026 - 1st September 2026- 31st September 2026
Live Finals Event- 24th November 2026 Leeds Trinity University
Key Information
Participants must have the express support of their Teacher and/or Parent or Legal Guardian in order to compete in Cyber Switch Up.
Participants must have access to a computer / device with internet access to compete in the Online Qualifier.
If successful in the initial Online Qualifier and subsequently invited to attend the Live Finals Event, participants who are under 18 must attend with a named responsible adult
(Parent, Legal Guardian, Teacher, or other Responsible Adult).
If you could like further information about Cyber Switch Up 2026, please contact us via email:
cyberprevent@yhrocu.police.uk
Showcase the digital and cyber skills & talent of students across Yorkshire & Humber
Educate and promote digital & cyber pathways for higher and further education
Raise awareness of the diverse digital & cyber career pathways available to young people
Promote Cyber Choices messaging – encourage positive, rewarding and lawful cyber behaviours in young people
Designed and delivered by
Yorkshire & Humber Regional Cyber Crime Unit
In collaboration with our Partners, Cyber Switch Up aims to:
Thank you to all of our Partners involved in Cyber Switch Up 2025
Marketing Resources
Cyber Switch Up 2026 Promotional E-Flyer
