Hacking Club: Learn HTML, Inspect Code & Crack Ciphers (KS3–KS4 Computer Science)

Hacking Club: Learn HTML, Inspect Code & Crack Ciphers (KS3–KS4 Computer Science)

DESCRIPTION:
An immersive and ethical Hacking Club resource designed to build real Computer Science skills through an engaging MI5-themed storyline.
Designed for at least a whole term of hacking club.

Students progress through multiple “hacking levels”, learning HTML and cyber security concepts by safely inspecting web pages, decrypting codes, and using simulated terminal commands to uncover a fictional plot to destroy England.

This resource focuses on problem-solving, logical thinking, and understanding how web technologies work — all delivered in a classroom-safe, ethical way.

No real hacking. No illegal activity. Fully suitable for school use.

WHAT STUDENTS WILL LEARN:
• How HTML pages are structured
• How to use Inspect Element to explore and modify HTML
• How hidden elements and attributes work
• Binary and number-based encoding
• Caesar and substitution ciphers
• Logical sequencing and command-based thinking
• Basic cyber security concepts
• How terminal-style commands work in a simulated environment

HOW IT WORKS:
Students work through progressive hacking levels. Each level includes:
• An HTML inspection challenge
• A decoding or cipher task
• A simulated terminal challenge
• A narrative-driven objective linked to an MI5 mission

Correct solutions unlock the next level, gradually revealing the storyline.

WHAT’S INCLUDED:
• Multi-level hacking challenges with increasing difficulty
• HTML inspection activities
• Cipher and binary decoding tasks
• Simulated terminal command challenges
• Full teacher answer guide for all levels
• Clear progression and narrative structure

SUITABLE FOR:
• KS3 Computer Science
• KS4 GCSE Computer Science
• Coding clubs
• Cyber security clubs
• STEM enrichment
• Early finishers or challenge lessons

TEACHER NOTES:
• No specialist software required
• Runs in a standard web browser
• No prior hacking knowledge needed
• Safe, ethical, and classroom-friendly

SAFEGUARDING & ETHICS:
This resource teaches ethical hacking concepts only.
Students do not access real systems, networks, or passwords.
All tasks are simulated and designed to develop understanding — not exploitation.

WHY STUDENTS ENGAGE:
• Feels like a game, not a worksheet
• Strong story and purpose
• Encourages curiosity and independence
• High engagement for reluctant learners