For anyone interested in learning about writing or decoding secret messages this is quite interesting:
The ciphers used are mostly those in use prior to the Second World War.
There are tutorials on the website.
The target audience is A Level students and the prizes are for those registered through their school, however anyone can register and have a go at the ciphers (but you won't be eligible for the prizes).
It starts on Oct 9th, as I've had a go at it before I haven't decided yet if I'll do it again this year.
Edit: I just thought I'd add that you should be able to complete quite a few of the challenges by just using pen, paper and some online tools (the later challenges will need some simple computer programming)