From Classroom to Career: Empowering Cyber Security Students at LSBU
London South Bank University (LSBU) School of Computer Science and Digital Technologies (CSDT) offers a broad range of undergraduate courses, including Computer Science, Game Design, Cyber Security, AI, Data Engineering, and IT. Postgraduate programmes include Data Science, Computer Science, Cyber Security, and Applied AI.
LSBU’s curriculum is closely linked to industry through a Project and Work-Based Learning approach, giving students hands-on experience with current technologies, real-world briefs, and collaborative projects. Beyond technical skills, students also develop essential soft skills such as communication, teamwork, and problem-solving, supported by the Careers Team and the School Employability Lead, George Bamfo.
LSBU’s goal is to ensure students are well-prepared for industry, building partnerships with organisations such as Hamilton Barnes to support this mission.
78
Graduates placed last year
900
Active graduate jobs
100
University partnership nationwide
HB & LSBU
Bringing Industry into the Classroom
In December 2025, London South Bank University partnered with Hamilton Barnes to deliver an industry-focused careers event for undergraduate and postgraduate students interested in Cyber Security and Network Engineering. The session was led by Hamilton Barnes consultants George McDonnell and Jordan Dyer, who shared practical insights into career paths, required skills, certifications, and employer expectations within the industry.
Designed to bridge the gap between academic learning and real-world application, the event addressed common challenges students face when preparing for placements, internships, and graduate roles. Students had the opportunity to hear directly from specialist recruiters who regularly assess CVs and interview candidates, gaining first-hand insight into what employers look for and how to stand out in a competitive job market.
“Working with LSBU on the December event was a real pleasure. The university is so proactive in preparing students for their careers, and it’s rewarding to collaborate on sessions that bridge the gap between academic learning and industry experience.”
- George McDonnell, Hamilton Barnes
“It was a pleasure to work with the students at LSBU during the event. They were enthusiastic, curious, and eager to learn, and it was incredibly rewarding to guide them on the practical steps needed to start their careers.”
- Jordan Dyer, Hamilton Barnes
Hamilton Barnes provided a bridge between Academia and Industry, giving our students practical guidance on the skills and qualifications that employers value most.
The session helped students gain clarity and confidence in their career journey, showing them where to start and what steps to take next in Cyber Security and networking
Working with Hamilton Barnes allowed our students to engage directly with industry experts, giving them insight and advice they wouldn’t typically get from lectures or standard careers events
Event Overview
Preparing Students for Real-World Cyber Security Careers
Student Challenges
Bridging the Gap Between Academia and Industry
Many students struggle to translate their academic learning into practical skills that employers value. While lectures and standard careers sessions provide general guidance, they often do not provide clear direction on where to start, which qualifications to pursue, or how to stand out in applications. LSBU recognised the need for an industry-led session to guide students toward their career goals.
Our Approach
Industry-Led Insights for Students
Hamilton Barnes delivered a tailored session focusing on career paths, required skills, qualifications, and application expectations for Cyber Security and Network Engineering roles. The presentation included a Q&A segment, allowing students to ask targeted questions about CV presentation, certifications, and the steps needed to build a strong career foundation. The session was designed to complement LSBU’s curriculum while providing hands-on guidance that students could immediately apply.
Results Delivered
Confidence, Clarity, and Direction for Students
Students responded enthusiastically to the session, asking numerous questions and engaging actively with the consultants. They gained actionable insights that went beyond typical lectures or careers events, including the most relevant certifications, skills to develop, and how to present their achievements effectively. The session gave students the confidence and clarity they need to begin applying for placements, internships, and graduate roles in technology.
Partnership Success
Long-Term Collaboration with Industry Experts
George Bamfo, LSBU’s Employability Lead, highlighted the value of Hamilton Barnes’ involvement: “Hamilton Barnes provided a bridge between Academia and Industry.” The university sees potential for the partnership to expand beyond presentations, with Hamilton Barnes contributing to curriculum design and LSBU providing a study pipeline for future talent. This collaborative approach ensures students are better prepared for industry while fostering strong connections with employers.
Hamilton Barnes’ Advice for Students Preparing for Careers in Technology
Starting a career in Cyber Security, Network Engineering, or related tech fields requires more than academic knowledge. Employers look for confidence, clear communication, and the ability to adapt in real-world scenarios. Developing these skills comes through practice, not just theory.
That is why Hamilton Barnes partnered with LSBU in December 2025 to give students early exposure to recruitment processes. By engaging directly with specialist recruiters, students were able to understand what makes a strong candidate, receive guidance on where to focus their efforts, and practise applying their skills in a supportive environment. This experience equips students to approach placements, internships, and graduate roles with greater confidence and clarity.
Hamilton Barnes provided a bridge between Academia and Industry, giving our students practical guidance on the skills and qualifications that employers value most.
The session helped students gain clarity and confidence in their career journey, showing them where to start and what steps to take next in Cyber Security and networking
Working with Hamilton Barnes allowed our students to engage directly with industry experts, giving them insight and advice they wouldn’t typically get from lectures or standard careers events
