Can organisations nominate more than one employee?

Yes, organisations can nominate multiple participants, and there is no minimum requirement to join the pilot.

How are participants selected?

Participants should be nominated by their employer and will complete a baseline assessment to help shape their learning pathway.

How much time should participants commit each week?

We recommend allocating at least 1–2 hours per week during work hours, in addition to self-paced study outside of work.

What support will SANS provide throughout the programme?

Dedicated programme team guidance, access to subject matter experts, mentoring, check-ins, soft skills development, and technical support throughout the learner journey.

Will there be future cohorts?

Based on pilot outcomes, additional cohorts are expected in 2026 and beyond.

How is programme impact measured?

Baseline and follow-up assessments covering technical skills, soft skills, job satisfaction, confidence, and role alignment.

Do participants have to follow a fixed training path?

No, pathways are tailored based on participants’ role, aspirations, and assessment results, with flexibility to select alternate courses.

Can the programme fit around participants’ current roles?

Yes, the programme is self-paced over 18 months and designed to be manageable alongside existing responsibilities.

How is the training delivered?

Courses can be taken via InPerson, LiveOnline, or OnDemand, depending on individual preference and availability.

When does the training start?

The training is planned to launch in April 2026.

SANS Talent Accelerator

Develop. Retain. Lead. The SANS Talent Accelerator is a high-impact development programme designed for established cybersecurity professionals. Over 18 months, participants accelerate their technical expertise, strengthen strategic capabilities, and chart a clear path to advancement, while helping employers build the resilient teams they need to thrive in today's threat landscape.

Programme Highlights

Tailored Development Plans

Each participant receives a customised learning pathway drawn from the full SANS curriculum and aligned with their aspirations and your organisation’s priorities.

Three SANS Courses + GIAC Certifications

Participants complete three world-class SANS training courses and corresponding GIAC certifications, flexibly delivered via InPerson, LiveOnline, or OnDemand.

Built-In Mentorship & Peer Engagement

From Capture-the-Flag challenges to SANS instructor talks and community events, participants connect with experts and peers to expand their network and sharpen their skills.

End-to-End Programme Support

Dedicated guidance throughout, from onboarding to certification, ensures individuals stay on track and organisations see measurable impact.

Why Join?

1. Retain and Inspire High-Potential Talent

Show your rising stars you're invested in their future. This programme gives your team purpose-driven development and a tangible pathway forward before your competitors come calling.

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2. Technical Mastery on Your Terms

Participants complete three advanced SANS courses (your choice from the SANS curriculum) with GIAC certifications included and delivered flexibly via InPerson, LiveOnline, or OnDemand to suit organisational and individual needs.

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3. Shape the Future of Cyber Talent

As a pilot initiative, early partners will influence the programme's future. Help us design the gold standard for structured cyber talent development in the UK.

A Strategic Investment in People

Joining the Talent Accelerator means more than just training. It's a statement of intent: to develop, retain, and empower your most promising cybersecurity professionals. Employers gain future-ready teams who are loyal, engaged, and equipped to lead.

Participants leave the programme with:

Industry-recognised certifications
Enhanced confidence and clarity in their career direction
A deeper connection to the UK cyber ecosystem
Sharpened communication and collaboration skills

Frequently Asked Questions

Learn More About SANS Institute Cyber Security Training Programmes

SEC595: Applied Data Science and AI/Machine Learning for Cybersecurity Professionals