Technology in schools has changed considerably over the last few years. Staff now need secure access to files from different locations, schools are using more cloud-based applications and protecting data from cyber threats has become increasingly important.
For many schools, this raises an important question:
Is it time to move away from traditional on-site servers and adopt a cloud-based IT environment?
At Academe IT, we work with schools to review their existing infrastructure and determine whether moving to the cloud could provide a more secure, flexible and manageable way of working.
What Does Moving a School to the Cloud Actually Mean?
Moving to the cloud does not necessarily mean replacing everything a school currently uses.
A cloud migration normally involves moving some or all of a school’s services away from locally hosted servers and into secure online platforms such as Microsoft 365.
Depending on the school’s requirements, this could include:
- Staff email
- Shared documents and folders
- Individual staff files
- User accounts and authentication
- Device management
- Data backup
- Remote access
- Collaboration through Microsoft Teams and SharePoint
Every school is different, which is why a cloud migration should begin with a review of the existing IT environment rather than simply moving everything online.
1. Access Files from Anywhere
One of the main advantages of cloud technology is flexibility.
Staff can securely access authorised documents and resources whether they are working:
- In school
- From another school site
- At home
- During training or meetings
- From an approved laptop or mobile device
For schools operating across more than one site, cloud technology can make collaboration significantly easier.
2. Reduce Reliance on Ageing Servers
Traditional school networks often depend heavily on physical servers located inside the school.
These servers eventually need replacing, maintaining and protecting.
Moving appropriate services into the cloud can reduce the school’s dependence on physical infrastructure and help simplify future IT planning.
It does not always mean removing every server immediately. A phased approach can often be the most practical option.
3. Improve Cybersecurity
Cybersecurity should be a major consideration for every school.
A properly configured cloud environment can provide additional security controls including:
- Multi-factor authentication
- Secure user identities
- Access restrictions
- Centralised device management
- Security policies
- Improved account monitoring
However, simply having Microsoft 365 does not automatically make a school secure.
The environment still needs to be configured, monitored and managed correctly.
4. Make Managing Multiple Sites Easier
For federations, trusts or schools sharing leadership across multiple locations, cloud technology can make managing IT considerably simpler.
Staff can be given access to the information they need without maintaining separate copies of documents at different sites.
Permissions can also be configured so that certain information remains restricted to individual schools, departments or leadership teams.
This allows schools to benefit from shared technology while maintaining appropriate levels of control.
5. Simplify Device Management
Schools now use a mixture of devices including:
- Windows laptops
- Desktop computers
- iPads
- Chromebooks
- Staff mobile devices
Cloud-based management tools can allow IT teams to configure, secure and monitor devices centrally.
This can reduce the amount of manual configuration required when deploying new equipment and can make it easier to enforce consistent security policies.
6. Cloud Does Not Mean No Backup
One common misunderstanding is that moving data into the cloud removes the need for backups.
It doesn’t.
Schools should still have an appropriate backup and disaster recovery strategy for important data held within cloud platforms.
A good cloud migration therefore considers not only where information is stored, but also how it will be protected and recovered if something goes wrong.
Is Cloud Right for Every School?
Not necessarily.
Some schools continue to use specialist applications or systems that depend on local infrastructure.
Others may benefit from a hybrid environment where some services remain onsite while others move to the cloud.
The important thing is to choose a solution based on the school’s operational requirements rather than moving to the cloud simply because everyone else appears to be doing it.
Start With a Cloud Readiness Review
Before making any major changes, schools should understand:
- What infrastructure they currently have
- Which services could move to the cloud
- Which systems need to remain onsite
- How staff currently work
- How data will be protected
- What devices need to be managed
- What the migration will cost
- How disruption will be kept to a minimum
Academe IT can review your existing school IT environment and help you identify the most appropriate route forward.
Whether you require a complete cloud migration, a hybrid solution or simply want to understand the available options, our team can help develop a practical plan around your school’s requirements.
Thinking About Moving Your School to the Cloud?
Book a consultation with Academe IT to discuss your current IT environment and explore the cloud options available to your school.
Academe IT
Technology solutions designed around education.
📞 0121 630 3620
✉️ sales@academeit.co.uk
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