The Truth About CAPSLOCK
We’re often told that CAPSLOCK sounds too good to be true. We give you the opportunity to fully re-skill in cyber security in as little as 4 months, secure valuable certifications and launch a brand new career, and you don’t have to pay for any of it up-front. So, what’s the catch? Is CAPSLOCK legit? Is CAPSLOCK a scam? If something sounds too good to be true, it usually is, right?
Usually, yes. But not in this case. Since we launched in 2021, we have helped hundreds of people from all kinds of different backgrounds re-skill in cyber security.
We’ve seen a professional dancer become a cyber security analyst, a British Army dog handler start a new role as an information security education and communications officer, a jeweller relaunch her career as a governance, risk & compliance associate, and many, many more…
CAPSLOCK graduates have been hired by a wide range of cyber security employers, including household names like the BBC, ITV, Allianz, HSBC, Dyson, Boohoo and PwC.
If we only supplied training to people who could afford to pay for it all up-front, we would have had fewer than 30 learners to date. In fact, none of the learners referenced above would have been able to join us at all. That’s why we use Income Share Agreements: unique and accessible methods of tuition finance which allow our learners to pay for the course in small instalments only after they’ve graduated, been hired, and are earning a good wage.
So, in a nutshell, our mission is to remove as many barriers to cyber security education as possible, and help a truly diverse range of people start new, rewarding careers in cyber security.
You can find out more about CAPSLOCK on our website, blog, LinkedIn or Instagram. But that’s enough from us for now. To get an even better idea of the truth about CAPSLOCK, why not read about the real-life experiences from some CAPSLOCK learners and alumni?
Rebecca, CAPSLOCK Alum
Former freelance composer, now a Security Awareness Specialist
“Hi CAPSLOCK! Just wanted to say that I’ve been in my new role of Security Awareness Specialist since July and it’s going really well. I had my first probation review this week and was really pleased with the feedback. I just wanted to pass it on because it’s all down to CAPSLOCK.
This time last year I was a home-schooling homemaker and struggling to access remedial IT courses. Now I have a multinational team of Security Champions helping me with ‘Human Factor’ security, I work with innovative training providers and create my own training & awareness content, and I support both defensive security and governance teams with their challenges and projects.
I get to tell people I am cyber security consultant for a global law firm, which makes me super proud and sometimes I get asked for advice from friends and acquaintances (btw the answer is usually “change your password” haha!).
My next challenge is to deep dive into cyberpsychology and understand the minds of both the criminal and victim. I can’t believe my luck – it’s brilliant! Thanks again! Becs.”
Jack, Current CAPSLOCK Learner
“I have to say it’s been amazing. I hardly had low expectations of the course, but it’s certainly exceeded the level I had anticipated. The emphasis on producing all rounders with business ready skills has taken me by surprise alongside the effectiveness of Team Based Learning (I had it in dribs and drabs at uni and it wasn’t well implemented), and the wide array of support available. Amazing work from the CAPSLOCK team and I’m so looking forward to week 2.”
Eliza, CAPSLOCK Alum
“I felt stuck in my previous job of managing a team in a contact centre. I found CAPSLOCK by searching for ways to break into the cyber security industry. I was lucky to get on the first part time cohort of students and began my cyber security journey from scratch, without much prior knowledge or experience but being assured none was needed to succeed.
The breadth of knowledge and the immense support from all the CAPSLOCK staff was a breath of fresh air. Team-based learning, a less conventional approach to learning, was scary at first but proved itself to be a fantastic way to learn.
I always felt supported and like everyone wanted me to succeed and would help me with anything I needed. I fitted the course around my full time job and found it easy to plan any reading or labs we needed to do before sessions because we were given enough notice, time and easily digestible materials.
Although I’m yet to land the cyber security job I want (and it’s not for the lack of opportunities), I’ve found the skills and experience I’ve gained through CAPSLOCK are so transferable that I am benefitting from them every day at my current job. I can’t recommend CAPSLOCK enough!”
Thomas, CAPSLOCK Alum
Former soldier in the British Army, now an Information Security Analyst
“In the beginning I didn’t think I had much to offer cyber security, so I focused purely on certifications as a tick-box exercise. I’ve now realised that although certification and qualifications are important, it’s also vital to transfer and use your valuable life experience and skills to be that more well-rounded and employable individual. You can have all the knowledge in the world, but if you lack the communication and “soft skills” to contribute to your team you add nothing!
I was drawn to CAPSLOCK because they are trying to break down barriers to cyber security that may be present due to a lack of a university degree. They are offering people a chance to showcase life skills and experience instead.
One thing that strikes me about cyber security is how passionate people are about it. All of the CAPSLOCK tutors have been fantastic and you can see how invested they are into bringing new talent into the industry. It’s rubbed off on me for sure! This isn’t about getting a job when I leave the Army. It’s about starting a new career.”
Ben, CAPSLOCK Alum
Former chef and freelance graphic designer, now a Junior Security Consultant
“16 weeks ago I took a chance. A chance to catch up with myself after years of self-doubt and resignation. After years of telling myself that I wouldn’t be able to break out of my position in hospitality. That I’d become a grumpy old man bitter at his many trials and many errors (debatable that hasn’t already happened).
Everything has changed since I joined CAPSLOCK.
The course has opened doors I never thought I’d be remotely close enough to catch even a glimpse over their threshold. Never mind that since undertaking their training I’ve not only looked in, but fully stepped through the door and nabbed myself a seat at the table.
The enthusiasm and support we’ve been shown for our development. The resources and guidance that have broken down the barriers for many of us, who never expected anything more than a few rejection letters before we carried on as before. All of that has been phenomenal.
Genuinely life-changing.
Today I graduated with a network of talented and capable people from all walks of life. Together we’ve proven our worth and paved the way for a brighter future for ourselves, and for the cyber security industry as a whole.”
Jo, CAPSLOCK Alum
Former NHS midwife and health visitor, now a Cyber Security and Compliance Analyst
“After 11 years working for the NHS, I am happy to share I have been offered a new position as a Cyber Security and Compliance Analyst. 6 short months ago I decided to make the leap with CAPSLOCK to reskill in cyber and I have not regretted a minute of it (well, maybe the Friday late night pen testing assignment…).
There are many cyber training companies trying to take your money along with programmes you can follow and do it yourself for free. However, CAPSLOCK stood out from the start: they understand cyber security is all about people, and that the industry needs all kinds. This diversity of thought runs through the program like a stick of rock.
From the tutors, to the teaching style, to the curriculum covered: they value their learners by understanding the importance of mentorship, coaching and individualised careers advice and all are offered throughout the 4 months, on demand.”
So, is CAPSLOCK legit? What do you think?
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