CYBER SENTINEL
About our Cyber Security programme
The Hein Wagner Academy’s Cyber Sentinel programme provides cyber security-related certification training courses from CompTIA, Cisco, Microsoft and AWS. These certifications will prepare you for sought-after jobs in this industry. Our specialised training will enable you to perform a variety of roles in the field of Information Technology.
YEAR 1
Foundation in Cyber Defence (Cyber Defender) programme
The program aims to build a strong foundation in cybersecurity principles, digital literacy, and basic security practices, emphasising broad digital skills with a cybersecurity perspective.
Modules
National Qualification (NQF 4)
CDP (SA) – Certified Digital Practitioner (1003)
Soft Skills
- Vision boarding
- Tech Talks
- Explorations into mindfulness
- Present with purpose
- Collaborate effectively
- Digital Mindset
- Creating compelling reports
- English for IT 1
- A framework for sustainability in IT
- E-Portfolio
Technical Training
- Artificial intelligence fundamentals
- Getting started with packet tracer
- Introduction to cybersecurity
- Networking basics
- Network device and initial configuration
- CompTIA A+ Core 1 & Core 2
- CompTIA Network+
- Linux unhatched
- CompTIA Security+
- Python Essentials 1
- Digital literacy
- ICDL
- Action learning project
Work Integrated Learning
Applying learned knowledge and skills in a workplace environment.
Activities
- Hands-on labs and virtualized environments for practicing security configurations and basic penetration testing techniques.
- Real-world case studies and simulations of cyberattacks.
- Guest lectures from cybersecurity professionals.
- Preparation for the CDP(SA) written assignment with a cybersecurity focus, in the form of international certifications.
- Learner portfolio of evidence.
- Action learning project.
YEAR 2
Developing Cyber Expertise (Cyber Technician) programme
This year builds upon the foundational skills from Year 1, delving deeper into technical cybersecurity skills and preparing students for the ITCP(SA) certification.
Modules
National Qualification (NQF 5)
AMICITP-SA Associate member, Institute of Chartered IT Professionals (1043)
Soft Skills
- Vision boarding
- Tech talks
- Interpersonal skills: Deliver quality work with agility
- Solving problems with critical and creative thinking
- Project management fundamentals
- Exploring sustainability
- English for IT 2
- E-Portfolio
Technical Training
- Introduction to modern AI
- Endpoint security
- Network defence
- Zscaler Foundations
- Linux Essentials
- Python Essentials 2
- AZ-900: Microsoft Azure Fundamentals
- SC-900: Microsoft Security, Compliance, and Identity Fundamentals
- DP-900: Microsoft Azure Data Fundamentals
- AWS Certified Cloud Practitioner
- AWS Certified Solutions Architect
- AWS Security Foundations
- Fortinet Certified Fundamentals
- Fortinet Certified Associate
Action Learning Project
Applying learned knowledge and skills in practical projects.
Activities
- Hands-on labs with advanced security tools and technologies.
- Simulated cyberattacks and incident response exercises.
- Practical projects involving vulnerability assessments and penetration testing.
- Mentorship program with experienced cybersecurity professionals.
YEAR 3
Advanced Cyber Leadership (Cyber Architect) programme
This year emphasizes advanced cybersecurity topics, specialization, and leadership skills, preparing students for the AMICITP-SA certification and potentially further certifications.
Modules
National Qualification (NQF 6)
ICTP(SA) – Information Technology Certified Professional (721)
Soft Skills
- Vision boarding
- Tech talks
- Customer engagement fundamentals
- Fundamentals of Sustainability and Technology
- Career preparation workshop
- Get started with design thinking (Year 3)
- E-Portfolio
International Training
- Cyber Threat Management
- Exams: Junior Cyber Security Analyst
- CompTIA CYSA+
- CompTIA Pentest+
- SUSE Linux Administrator
- Cyber Operations Associate
- Enterprise Security in Practice (Year 3)
- Introduction to IoT and Digital Transformation
- SC-300: Microsoft Identity and Access Administrator
- AZ-500: Microsoft Azure Security Technologies
- SC-400: Microsoft Information Protection Administrator
- Action learning project
Activities
- Advanced projects involving real-world cybersecurity challenges.
- Networking events and industry conferences.
- Preparation for the AMICITP-SA requirements (work experience documentation, etc.).
Application Criteria
Prospective applicants must meet the following criteria:
- Grade 12 with minimum 50% in English and Math Literacy
- Computer literate with screen reader or magnification
- Permanent visual impairment (blind or partially sighted)
- Unemployed and not enrolled for any other learnership
- Between the ages of 18 and 32 on application.
- Willing to relocate to Worcester for the duration of the programme.
Required documentation
The following documents must be uploaded with your application:
- Copy of ID
- Copy of matric certificate or equivalent
- Affidavit confirming clear criminal record
- Medical report confirming permanent sight impairment
- Affidavit or confirmation of unemployment from the Department of Labour and Employment
- CV and motivation for entry
Vetting Process
Since this is an intensive course with limited placements, prospective students need to undergo a strict vetting process.
Applications are reviewed by the Hein Wagner Academy as well as the learnership sponsor (where applicable).
If you’re a suitable candidate for our Cyber Security programme, kindly mail the documents below in PDF format to training@heinwagneracademy.org with the subject line: CYBERSECURITY APPLICATION.
Privacy
The Hein Wagner Academy and our learnership sponsors are committed to ethical practices. The processing of your private information is conducted in line with POPIA requirements. If you have any questions or queries about how your information will be used, feel free to mail us on frederika@heinwagneracademy.org

LEARNERSHIPS
The Hein Wagner Academy partners with organisations like Absa to offer learnerships to qualifying students from our academy. These learnerships provide crucial real-life experience and on-the-job training for accredited learners.