The Sheffield Siege CTF – 3 Years of Empowering UK Cybersecurity Talent

ByNeil Richardson

Back Again: The Sheffield Siege – 3 Years Strong and Still Raising Hell (Ethically, of course 😇)

Yep, we’re back at it. For the third year running, we’re proudly supporting and co-organising the Sheffield Inter-University CTF, affectionately known as the Sheffield Siege – and no, not the medieval kind, though there will be battles (keyboard-based, naturally).

This isn’t just another CTF. It’s a celebration of cyber talent, a proving ground for the next gen of security pros, and one big shoutout to the ever-growing community in Sheffield and the wider Yorkshire cyber ecosystem. And we couldn’t be prouder to be part of it.

So What Actually Is the Sheffield Siege?

Picture this: university teams from across the UK facing off in a Jeopardy-style Capture The Flag (CTF) challenge, tackling web exploits, reverse engineering, crypto puzzles, and forensics wizardry. There’s brainpower, banter, maybe even some tears (mainly when the “simple 100-point challenge” ends up eating 3 hours of your life).

Whether you’re new to CTFs or a seasoned shell-popper, it’s an incredible space to test your skills, learn something new, and meet the wider cyber tribe.

Who’s Wearing the Crown?

The team to beat? Warwick University, who’ve taken home the title two years running. Will they make it a three-peat? Or will another uni rise to the challenge and knock them off the throne?

Either way, expect some serious skill on show — and a fair bit of friendly rivalry.

Why Are We Involved?

Honestly? Because this stuff matters.

Cybersecurity isn’t just about firewalls and zero-days – it’s about people. And more than ever, we need to support, grow, and nurture new talent. Events like this give students real, hands-on experience in a collaborative (and competitive) environment. They get exposure. They get connections. They get inspired.

But it’s also about giving back to the community. Sheffield (and Yorkshire as a whole) is full of bright sparks and rising stars. We believe in creating more spaces where they can shine, learn, and connect with others in the field. That’s why we’re not just showing up—we’re helping to build this thing year on year.

Oh, and we love an excuse to hang out with the amazing folks from:

  • Yorkshire Cyber Security Cluster (YCSC)
  • Sheffield Hallam University
  • CyberWomen@SHU
  • Hack The Box
  • And our generous sponsor: BCS South Yorkshire Branch and HSBC

The Essentials 📅

  • When: Saturday, 5th April
  • Where: Sheffield Hallam Uni, 153 Arundel St, S1 2NU
  • Teams: Max 5 people (or fly solo and we’ll matchmake)

Prizes? Oh yes. SteelCon tickets, BSides Leeds Tickets, maybe even eternal glory (okay, that last one’s not guaranteed). Free food, good vibes, new skills, and new mates. What’s not to love?

Wanna Join the Siege?

If you’re a student or recent grad looking to get your hands dirty (digitally), this is your time. And if you’re a company or professional thinking “this sounds kinda cool,” it is. Come say hi, support the future of cyber, and maybe help us spot the next rising star 🌟

Sign-up deets are over here.

This is the kind of thing that turns interest into passion, passion into careers, and careers into a stronger, safer digital world. Not bad for a Saturday in Sheffield, eh?