View this short 10 minute video for an overview of the Cisco Networking Academy including:
What is the Cisco Networking Academy
How does it work
What are the benefits of becoming an Academy
What does the curriculum cover
How do I become an Academy
The Cisco Networking Academy is a global education initiative that is flexible enough to be locally relevant. Its portfolio, that is made available for free to all eligible organisations, can be used in multiple scenarios according to the Academy needs.
The Cisco Networking Academy provides several services such as a learning management system, online support, course portfolio, and products like Packet Tracer. All of these are available free of charge.
Schools typically offer courses such as Networking Basics (22 hours) and Python Essentials 1 (30 hours). These courses align to relevant qualifications such as OCR's GCSE Computer Science (view curriculum mapping). These courses can be delivered with no training or prior accreditation for teachers.
We also see schools using "Introduction to" courses, such as Introduction to Cybersecurity, which are 6 hour courses great for giving students an insight into a particiular topic. As with all NetAcad courses, students can work towards a Digital Badge hosted on Credly.
View the case study with Greenhill School to get inspired and learn more.
Many FE Colleges offer the "new" CCST (Cisco Certified Support Technician) pathways. The CCST Networking and CCST Cybersecurity align well with national qualifications through a modular, pathway format. These certification-aligned courses provide a strong foundation for students and a stepping stone into more advanced courses such as CCNA or employment.
For more information, on T-Levels and also curricula in Wales, Ireland, and Scotland, please visit the respective regional pages under "Education".
You can also view the case studies with Bedford College and Lakes College to get inspired and learn more.
Cisco Networking Academy based programmes exist within undergraduate and postgraduate courses in the UK, Ireland, and beyond. Many Computing and Network Engineering programmes fully incorporate NetAcad courses and certifications within their degrees.
Some Further Education colleges also offer higher education programmes in partnership with different universities. It is worth checking with your local college to discover if this is available.
Get inspired and learn more from our case studies with UCEN Manchester and TU Dublin.
Apprenticeship Providers can become affiliated with the Cisco Networking Academy. These are typically for-profit training companies but given the nature of the education they provide, Cisco have decided to open an exception with these providers. Apprentices can then access Cisco Networking Academy courses, as any other student.
The Cisco Networking Academy partners with several less traditional institutions, i.e. institutions that are not traditional education establishments. These include libraries, police forces, foundations, and charities that have created their own Cisco Academies.
View the case study with TechVets to get inspired and learn more.