Uptree

Placement details

Location: Samlesbury, with college-based learning in Lancashire
Start Date: January 2027
Application Criteria: British citizen or dual nationality (at least one component must be British), GCSE Maths and English C/4 or equivalent
Key Skills: Curious, motivated, adaptable, organised, team player, good communicator
Application Deadline: Monday 19th January 2026 (may close earlier if enough applications are received)
How to Apply: Click 'Apply' at the top of the page, and select “Uptree” as your application source.

⚠️ Important: When applying, make sure you select “Uptree” as your application source. This helps us track your application and report successes back to Uptree. Don’t forget – applications without this may not be counted!

About the opportunity
This 18-month programme combines classroom learning with real work experience at GCHQ. You’ll rotate across different technical teams, develop cyber skills, and contribute to projects that protect the UK. After the programme, you’ll move into a permanent role with opportunities for promotion and additional skills payments.

Salary: £27,161 (includes £2,658 concessionary payment)

You will:

• Learn cyber and IT skills through classroom training, lab sessions, and projects
• Rotate across technical teams to apply what you learn in real work
• Explore tools and technologies like cloud services, Docker, and programming languages including Python, TypeScript, React, and Go
• Develop infrastructure solutions and conduct security research
• Work on projects with real operational impact, from protecting systems to preventing online crime

About the company
GCHQ is the UK’s intelligence, cyber, and security agency. Working alongside MI5, MI6, and the National Cyber Force, they protect the UK from cyber threats, terrorism, and espionage. GCHQ values teamwork, innovation, and a diverse, inclusive workforce.

Next steps
Check eligibility and submit your application by clicking 'Apply' at the top of the page!

Please note: this role requires security clearance, is based in Samlesbury, and applications must be submitted from within the UK.