SHE@CYBER

Summary

The SHE@CYBER project introduces an inclusive and practical approach to cybersecurity education by making complex technical concepts accessible to non-technical learners, particularly women and underrepresented groups. 

Through a combination of modular training, an interactive learning platform, and a structured train-the-trainer methodology, the project enables VET providers, SMEs, and professionals to develop essential cybersecurity and business resilience competences in a clear and applicable way. By linking cybersecurity knowledge with real-world organisational needs and lowering traditional entry barriers, SHE@CYBER supports a more diverse and adaptable digital workforce and contributes to strengthening digital skills across Europe. 

“She@Cyber proved that a non-technical background is not a barrier. Participating in the pilot provided me with practical knowledge and confidence to manage cybersecurity challenges.” 

Topic(s) addressed

• Cybersecurity upskilling
• Digital inclusion
• Gender equality
• Women’s empowerment
• Employability
• Inclusive digital education 
• Reskilling, and 
• Safer participation in Europe’s digital economy

Target group(s)

• VET
• Trainers
• Disadvantaged groups
• SMEs
• Start-ups 
• Final events: 160 participants 150+ external stakeholders 

Methodologies used

The SHE@CYBER project uses a learner-centred approach designed to make cybersecurity understandable for non-technical learners. 

The training combines basic cybersecurity concepts with key skills such as critical thinking, and ethical awareness, supporting the development of knowledge, skills, and attitudes relevant to the workplace. 

The learning is structured in modules, allowing participants to build their understanding step by step. Simple assessment elements are used to support learning and reflection. The approach combines structured training with flexible, self-paced learning through the online platform, linking formal and non-formal learning. 

Inclusion is a key element of the methodology: it removes barriers to entry and gets learners actively involved through practical examples and scenarios. 

The project has also involved external stakeholders, including SMEs and professionals, who contributed to reviewing and validating the content, ensuring its relevance and practical value.

Innovation environment

SHE@CYBER creates a supportive environment for innovative teaching by focusing on accessibility, especially for non-technical learners. The project brings together organisations from vocational education, cybersecurity, and industry, creating a collaborative and practical learning framework. 

A positive learning environment is supported through clear, easy-to-follow content and flexible learning options, helping learners build confidence regardless of their background. Multilingual materials further support accessibility across different countries. 

The project makes efficient use of digital tools, particularly the online learning platform, which provides ongoing access to the training materials and supports their continued use after the project ends. 

Cooperation between education providers, industry, and certification bodies ensures that the learning environment reflects real needs and can be applied in practice, while also allowing the approach to be used in other contexts.

Teachers’ role

Teachers and trainers in SHE@CYBER act as facilitators and mentors, rather than traditional instructors. They support inclusive and learner-centred approaches, especially for participants with non-technical backgrounds. 

They help create a positive learning environment by encouraging participation, building confidence, and using practical examples to explain cybersecurity concepts. 

Through the project, trainers also develop their own skills in delivering accessible training and adapting content to different learner needs. 

The train-the-trainer approach supports cooperation and peer learning, allowing trainers to share experiences and improve their teaching methods. 

Impact and output

SHE@CYBER has a direct impact on its target groups by making cybersecurity education accessible to non-technical learners, particularly women and individuals with fewer opportunities. 

Through flexible learning pathways, participants strengthen their digital and transversal skills, increase their cybersecurity awareness and gain confidence in applying this knowledge in professional contexts. 

The project’s impact has been further reinforced through dissemination events, including the final conference that promoted project results and stakeholder engagement. Beyond direct beneficiaries, the train-the-trainer approach and open-access resources create a spill-over effect, enabling VET providers and organisations to reuse and adapt the materials, thus ensuring the sustainability and long-term uptake of inclusive cybersecurity education. 

Note: This project is flagged as a Good Practice on the Project Results Platform. 

Learn more about the project