GCHQ Workplace Safari Event

Students from across the Greater Manchester Institute of Technology partnership attended a day-long Workplace Safari at GCHQ in Manchester on 18 February 2026, introducing them to cyber security, digital technology and the organisations that protect the UK's digital infrastructure.

The morning opened with an introduction to the programme and a session, "Demystifying GCHQ – what do we do, roles in the area, routes into industry". GCHQ staff and partners gave short talks on GCHQ's role in the UK intelligence community, a "day in the life" perspective and the Developed Vetting (DV) security clearance process. QinetiQ then gave an industry spotlight presentation, delivered by Ben Tucker, on complex challenges in the cyber and defence sectors.

After lunch, students took part in a collaborative Lego challenge focused on problem-solving and teamwork, and received practical guidance on staying safe online.

The event is part of the GMIoT's wider employer engagement programme. Thank you to GCHQ and our industry partners, including QinetiQ. Find out more about careers at GCHQ at gchq-careers.co.uk.