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?
21st - 22nd January
Northern Irish Bootcamp (Incl. Guernsey)
Barclays Eagle Labs Belfast
Kick-start your competition journey at Barclays Eagle Labs Belfast, where participants from Northern Ireland and Guernsey will take part in a shared bootcamp experience from their respective locations. Across two days, you’ll develop practical cyber security skills, learn from industry experts, and gain valuable insights to prepare for the competition ahead.
28th - 29th January
Republic of Ireland (Incl. Isle of Man)
AMCTE Dundalk
Join participants from the Republic of Ireland and the Isle of Man for an engaging bootcamp experience designed to build your cyber security knowledge through expert-led training, hands-on activities, and collaborative learning.
4th - 5th February
Wales Bootcamp
University of South Wales (Newport Campus)
Experience university-level cyber security training at the University of South Wales (Newport Campus), gaining practical skills, learning from industry professionals, and building a strong foundation for the next stages of the competition.
11th - 12th February
England (North) Bootcamp
Barclays Eagle Labs Manchester (North)
Step into the heart of Northern England’s innovation community at Barclays Eagle Labs Manchester and expand your cyber security expertise through hands-on learning, practical training, and exposure to real-world industry knowledge.
11th - 12th February
England (Midlands) Bootcamp
Barclays Eagle Labs Birmingham
Join aspiring cyber professionals at Barclays Eagle Labs Birmingham for an engaging bootcamp packed with expert guidance, practical cyber security training, and valuable industry insights.
11th - 12th February
England (South) Bootcamp
Bournemouth University
Develop your technical expertise in the inspiring surroundings of Bournemouth University, gaining real-world cyber security knowledge and insights from industry professionals as you prepare for the competition journey ahead.
24th - 25th February
Scotland Bootcamp (Incl. Jersey)
Abertay University
Train at the prestigious University of Abertay on the 24th – 25th of February, with participants from Jersey connecting from their own local venue, and experience why Scotland is home to one of the UK’s most respected cyber security learning enviroments through two days of immersive training, skills development, and collaboration
6th of March 2027
Qualifiers
Online
Put your knowledge into practice by completing a series of Capture the Flag (CTF) and cyber security challenges. This stage allows you to demonstrate your abilities, test your problem-solving skills, and compete for a place among the competition’s top performers.
10th of April 2027
Grand Final
Campbell College, Belfast
The highest-performing competitors will have the opportunity to represent their nation int he Hack the Issles Grand Final. Working as part of a national team, you’ll investigate and respond to a realistic cyber incident in an immersive threat-hunting scenario, competing against teams from across the UK and Ireland.
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.