Competition Information
Hack the Isles is a national cybersecurity competition developing the next generation of cyber talent through practical and industry-relevant learning experiences.
Combining Capture the Flag (CTF) and Threat Hunt challenges, the programme begins with a series of bootcamps delivered across Northern Ireland, Republic of Ireland, Scotland, England and Wales. These bootcamps will educate participants with the technical knowledge and foundational skills needed to tackle real-world cyber security challenges before progressing to an online qualifier and ultimately the Grand Final at Campbell College, Northern Ireland.
Designed to bridge the gap between education and industry, the competition provides hands-on experience in various areas such as cyber defence, threat hunting, digital forensics, incident response and security analysis. While also strengthening professional soft skills such as teamwork, communication, problem solving and critical thinking. In the qualifier and final stages participants demonstrate their capabilities through realistic technical scenarios that reflect the challenges faced by today’s cyber security professionals.
Think you’ve got what it takes?
10-11th of December 2026
Welsh Bootcamp
Cybexer are delivering our Welsh regional bootcamp from 9-5 across the two days at the Unversity of South Wales. This bootcamp exists to help people develop the skills necesary to compete at our qualifiers.
14-15th of January 2027
Midlands and Southern English Bootcamp
Cybexer are delivering our Midlands regional bootcamp from 9-5 across the two days at the University of Birmingham, with an aditioanl satelite location at the University of Bournemouth – with its own support. This bootcamp exists to help people develop the skills necesary to compete at our qualifiers.
21st of January 2027
Northern Irish Bootcamp
Cybexer are delivering our Northern Irish regional bootcamp from 9-5 across the two days at the Ormeau Labs. This bootcamp exists to help people develop the skills necesary to compete at our qualifiers.
28th of January 2027
Republic of Ireland Bootcamp
Cybexer are delivering our Republic of Ireland regional bootcamp from 9-5 across the two days at AMTCE. This bootcamp exists to help people develop the skills necesary to compete at our qualifiers.
11th of Febuary 2027
Northern England Bootcamp
Cybexer are delivering our Northern English regional bootcamp from 9-5 across the two days at the Barclays Eagle Labs. This bootcamp exists to help people develop the skills necesary to compete at our qualifiers.
25th of Febuary 2027
Scotland Bootcamp
Cybexer are delivering our Midlands regional bootcamp from 9-5 across the two days at Abertay University. This bootcamp exists to help people develop the skills necesary to compete at our qualifiers.
6th of March 2027
Qualifiers
Put your skills to the test in our online Capture the Flag competition, hosted on Cybexer’s cyber range. Top performers will earn a place representing their region in the live national finals.
10th of April 2027
Finals
Our live finals take place in person at Campbell College, Northern Ireland. Regional qualifiers will join forces in a live threat-hunting showdown against the best teams from across the UK, Ireland, and the Channel Islands.
FAQ
What is a capture the flag?
A Capture The Flag (CTF) is a cybersecurity competition that involves participants solving challenges inspired by real-world security scenarios. Challenges may include various areas.
Who can participate?
The competition is designed for students, career changers and aspiring cybersecurity professionals across Northern Ireland, Republic of Ireland, England, Scotland and Wales (Isle of Mann and Channel Islands). Whether you’re completely new to cybersecurity or already building technical skills, there is a place for you in the competition (16-24)
Do I need previous cybersecurity experience?
No. We welcome participants of all skill levels. Our bootcamp programme is specifically designed to help beginners develop the skills and confidence needed to take part in the competition.
What suppport is availiable before the competition?
Participants will have access to a series of bootcamps delivered both online and in person across the UK and Ireland. These sessions will introduce key cybersecurity concepts, competition strategies, and hands-on practical exercises to help prepare you for the qualifier.
What are the bootcamps like?
The bootcamps are interactive workshops led by cybersecurity professionals (Cybexer?) and experienced practitioners (George?). You will gain hands-on experience solving challenges like those featured in the competition while learning valuable industry-relevant skills.
Can I attend if I can't travel to a bootcamp
Yes. Alongside our in-person events, we also offer simultaneous online bootcamps to ensure participants can access training regardless of their location.
Why should I take part?
The competition provides an opportunity to:
- Develop practical cybersecurity skills.
- Gain hands-on experience solving realistic challenges.
- Learn from industry professionals.
- Network with employers, universities, and cybersecurity experts.
- Strengthen your CV and demonstrate your skills to potential employers.
- Challenge yourself in a fun and competitive environment.
Is participation free?
Yes. Registration for the competition and preparatory bootcamps is free, helping to make cybersecurity learning accessible to as many people as possible.
Can I compete as a team?
Everyone starts the competition solo as the qualifier and bootcamp stages are entirely about individual skill, giving you the chance to prove your own abilities and earn your spot at the finals. At the final, you’ll join forces with the best performers from your country to compete together as a national team on the big stage.
Will I receive recognition for participating?
Yes. Participants may receive certificates, digital badges, prizes, or other forms of recognition depending on their level of participation and competition performance.
Who will I meet during the events?
The event brings together students, aspiring cyber professionals, industry experts, universities, employers, sponsors, and members of the wider cybersecurity community, creating valuable networking opportunities.
Could this help me start a career in cybersecurity?
Many participants attend their first CTF with little or no prior experience. The bootcamp programme is designed to help you build confidence, learn new skills, and connect with others before the competition begins.
How is this event different from others?
Unlike many CTFs, this event combines:
- A structured learning journey through bootcamps.
- Development of industry-relevant skills.
- Access to industry mentors and experts.
- Regional participation across NI, ROI, England, Scotland, and Wales.
- An online qualifier for accessibility.
- An exciting in-person championship final in Northern Ireland.
This means participants don’t just compete, they develop skills, build professional connections, and become part of a growing cybersecurity community.