In preparation for the 2019 school year, Deakin University and LifeJourney organised a professional learning session on cyber security in Melbourne on the 15th of November. The event was attended by teachers and school leaders from a range of Victoria schools who came to learn about how they can introduce students to the world of cyber security.

The session was kicked-off by the Head of Deakin’s School of Information Technology, Professor John Yearwood, who previewed the day and provided insights into his research around the subject. The opening address led quickly into an industry panel discussion where a dynamic group of cyber professionals provided their unique insights and advice to teachers. The panel included the following experts:

• Kirstin McIntosh, Program Manager, CyRise
• Stewart Hayes, Principal Cyber Security Consultant, Optus Business
• Professor John Yearwood, Head of School, School of Information Technology, Deakin University
• Bruce Matthews, Director, Melbourne Joint Cyber Security Centre
• Helaine Leggat, Principal Lawyer, Sladen Legal Cyberlaw Practice and Board Member for the Australian Information Security Association (AISA)
• Moderated by Tim Edwards, VP-Strategic Partnerships, LifeJourney

Following the panel, the audience heard from two schools, Mount Waverley Secondary College and St. Margaret’s & Berwick Grammar on how they implementing LifeJourney’s cyber security programs at their school. Matt Hall (Head of IT) and Stephanie Thomas (Careers Advisor) presented their learnings, best practices and the feedback from their Year 8 and Year 11 students. Annette Rome (Principal) and Meg Fortington (IT Integrator) presented a case study on how they’ve developed an annual STE(A)M Festival for their students, parents and community members that integrates cyber security as a key stream.

The day closed with an overview of the ASD CyberEXP, Optus Cyber Security Experience and Cyber Teacher programs led by Renee Hoareau, Director of Education and Engagement at LifeJourney. The next cyber security professional learning for Victorian schools will take place in Melbourne on 19th of February at the Melbourne Joint Cyber Security Centre in the CBD. Please email Renee (renee@lifejourney.us) to confirm your interest in attending that session.