The challenge
An NHS body identified skills gaps within its security operations and software development teams that were limiting teams' ability to use critical technologies effectively and confidently.
Within the security operations team, capability levels varied across Microsoft Defender, Microsoft Sentinel, and Kusto Query Language (KQL). As a result, the team's ability to investigate alerts, interrogate security data, and fully utilise its Microsoft security environment was inconsistent.
The differing levels of capability placed greater reliance on individuals with deeper technical knowledge, raising concerns around knowledge retention and continuity. In the development team, varying levels of TypeScript capability among front-end and back-end developers led to inconsistent development practices. This affected the effective use of TypeScript within Node.js and Express environments, as well as the development of secure, type-safe APIs and front-end integrations
The organisation required targeted, practical training that addressed specific capability gaps while accommodating demands of busy technical teams. The training needed to be flexible, relevant to the role, and immediately applicable within day-to-day operations.
The solution
This upskilling requirement needed a training provider with a breadth of expertise across cyber security, software development, and multiple technical platforms and languages. Code Nation had the capability to support both the security operations and software development teams through tailored learning programmes. Importantly for the NHS body, having training delivered by Code Nation’s Microsoft Certified Trainers provided the assurance of quality and technical expertise.
To meet the organisation’s needs, Code Nation’s technical instructors designed and delivered bespoke training programmes for each team through live virtual sessions. This approach enabled participants to engage directly with instructors, ask questions in real time, and apply learning immediately within realistic technical environments.
For the security operations team, training focused on the practical application of Microsoft Defender, Microsoft Sentinel and Kusto Query Language (KQL) within a security operations context. Through hands-on exercises, participants strengthened their ability to investigate alerts, interrogate security data and make greater use of the organisation's Microsoft security technologies.
The programme for the software development team centred on developing TypeScript expertise across front-end and back-end applications. Using practical, instructor-led sessions, participants enhanced their understanding of TypeScript, software engineering best practices, and the development of secure, type-safe applications.
Recognising the always-on nature of both teams, Code Nation scheduled training around team availability and operational requirements. This flexible approach enabled participants to build new skills without disrupting business-critical activity.
The results
Code Nation’s bespoke training programmes were effective in addressing the organisation's priority technical skills gaps.
Provision was fully tailored to the needs of participants and enabled teams to combine upskilling with day-to-day operational delivery without disruption. Alongside accommodating operational requirements, the flexible programme gave participants the opportunity to embed what they were learning into their daily workflows as the training progressed.
As a result, the security operations team strengthened its capability in Microsoft security technologies and KQL, helping to reduce reliance on individual subject matter experts and improve team resilience. The software development team enhanced its TypeScript expertise and broader software engineering capability, creating greater consistency in development practices and supporting more effective collaboration across the team.
Roz Atherton, Managing Partner at Code Nation, said: "Our breadth of technical expertise means that we can fulfil a range of technical training and upskilling requirements. When the NHS body approached us with specific needs across two distinct teams, we were able to create tailored training covering every platform and programming language required.
“As a result, both teams have strengthened their technical capability, enabling them to respond more effectively to challenges and make better use of the technologies that support their day-to-day roles.”
