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CISCO Networking Academy

The KHS CISCO Academy opened in 2004. It is an incredible opportunity is waiting for you. Technology is changing the world by connecting billions of devices and improving how we live, work, play and treat our planet. No industry is immune. Are you ready to change your life, and possibly make the world a better place?


CISCO courses are recognised internationally and highly valued by employers, colleges and universities. Being able to put a CISCO qualification on your CV or UCAS application makes you stand out from the crowd.

Most CISCO academies are in universities or colleges so you have a great opportunity that most other secondary school students do not have.

Who can study CISCO courses?

It is open to all people aged 13 or over.

Most students are current KHS pupils but we also have ex-students and pupils from other schools.

What courses can I study?

IT Essentials

CCNAv7 Introduction to Networks (ITN)

CCNAv7 Switching, Routing, and Wireless Essentials (SRWE)

What qualifications do I need to join?

Commitment to study and an interest in working with technology is all you need. There are practical Lab activities and simulations that will help you develop practical computing skills.

How does the course work?

Study online and take online assessments during the term-time weekly Saturday morning sessions 9:15 to 11:00 am

You can start a course at anytime, the course fee pays for 30 sessions which should be more than enough time to complete the course.

Student comments about CISCO Courses (IT Essentials)

"I decided to do the CISCO course was because I was interested in learning about ICT in more detail as I was already doing BTEC ICT but by doing the CISCO course it helped me not just to repeat some of the knowledge but also to understand the principles of it in more detail as well as learn new topics which were not covered in the BTEC ICT course such as learning in more depth about networks and advanced troubleshooting process etc.

This course have helped me in getting an a degree apprenticeship offer from Microsoft because it shows my interest in Technology industry as well as helping me to stand out of the crowd as this shows my willingness to learn by doing this additional course. Also during my interviews I was able to use my knowledge and experiences from the CISCO course to relate to specific skills or to show what I have done in my free time."

- Year13 BTEC student (gained Apprenticeship with Microsoft)

"I studied CISCO’s IT Essentials course while studying for my Computer science A Level and found that many of the things in the scheme of work for my course were not only covered in the CISCO course but were with greater detail. This meant that I was given deeper knowledge into the subject that I was studying granting me greater breadth and depth to show in my answers to exam questions. I also found that CISCO helped me with customer service. I was taught how to correctly deal with a frustrated or confused customer which could be applicable to work in later life. I would strongly recommend CISCO courses to any student who has any remote interest or involvement in networking and computers as part of their education or as a hobby."

- Year 13 Computing Student

"Interested in potentially having a career in the future? Cisco is one place to start! You will be able to build on your ICT skills and learn more about the technology industry. Whether you are a novice in IT or have a good knowledge on computer systems, Cisco is a place for everyone. One aspect that has drawn me into taking Cisco courses is that I was able to work at my own pace and I was able to take the exam whenever I felt that I was ready. Along with answering multiple choice examinations and learning the theory behind computer systems, you will also get the opportunity in taking part in practical activities such as assembling and disassembling components of a desktop. You will also get the chance to use online software such as Cisco Packet Tracer which will help you with learning how to set up and configure a network. I highly recommend this course to anyone who would like to learn something new and take up a new skill."

- Year 13 Computing Student

We offer some smaller courses focused on more specific areas. Most of these can be completed within 2 months.

Introduction to Cybersecurity

IOT- The Internet of Things (introduction)

Linux Essentials

You study online and only need to come into the academy if you need support with any aspects of the course and to take the final assessment.

For further information, please contact Paul Fuller, Head of e-Systems - paul.fuller@kingsburyhigh.org.uk