The CGI Cyber Escape Room (CER) made a successful return to the Defence Academy from 15–19 September, following its initial visit in June 2024.
Organised by the Defence Cyber Academy (DCA) — part of the Defence College for Military Capability Integration — the CER return was to primarily support Cyber Direct Entry (CyDE) trainees, a new fast-track initiative announced earlier this year. The CyDE scheme aims to bring skilled individuals directly into military cyber roles, bypassing traditional entry routes. The Phase 2 training is being delivered by DCA which has made significant adaptations to accommodate this intake.
As part of their induction week the 26 CyDE trainees — a mix of Royal Navy and Royal Air Force personnel — took part in the escape room challenge. The ‘Tiger Team’ was the quickest of the CyDE Scheme participants to complete the task which improved their teamwork and problem-solving skills.
In total 24 teams, comprising 145 personnel from civilian and military backgrounds (including international partner nations), took on the challenge. Of those, 14 teams successfully completed the escape. The CER once again proved to be a useful tool to test cyber awareness and teamwork in a high-pressure, simulated environment.
In addition, 26 young people from the local 1st Watchfield and Shrivenham Scouts also took part, bringing energy and enthusiasm to the experience.
A 15-year-old Young Leader said:
“It was a great session. I enjoyed working with my team to solve the puzzles and escape. I was really proud when I found out we were on the leaderboard!”
Members of the Defence Cyber Academy were the overall fastest team to escape the challenge in a time of 32 minutes.
The CGI Cyber Escape Room, housed in a 40-foot shipping container, offers an immersive scenario in which participants must respond to a simulated cyber-attack on a business. Teams are given up to 50 minutes to solve a series of puzzles, uncover clues, and ultimately prevent the loss of critical data. The experience is designed to build cyber resilience and promote security awareness in a fun, engaging way.
Martin Daley, Business Consultant, CGI UK said:
“It was an absolute privilege to be able to bring our Cyber Escape Room to the Defence Academy. A hugely enjoyable and rewarding experience supporting our clients and communities.”
The Defence Cyber Academy provides expert training and education to the whole force that develops a highly skilled, global cyber community for UK defence and partners.