Transforming School IT for Better Learning and Sustainability
- MATs across the UK are grappling with together budgets as they contend with escalating IT infrastructure costs alongside inflation in energy and overheads. According to the Institute for Fiscal Studies, IT and digital infrastructure improvements are often deprioritised because of these financial pressures, impacting schools’ ability to provide modern technology and stable internet connectivity, essential for delivering digital learning experiences. [1]
- The Department for Education’s initiatives emphasise the need to develop local digital skills, with programs such as “Skills for Jobs” aiming to equip young people with hands-on experience in IT. Schools often lack dedicated funds for local apprenticeships, leaving regional talent gaps in essential digital roles.
- As schools integrate more digital tools, cybersecurity has become paramount. The National Cyber Security Centre (NCSC) has warned of increasing cyber threats against educational institutions, making cybersecurity education and infrastructure a growing priority. However, many schools struggle to allocate resources toward robust cybersecurity due to budget constraints.
The Uniform basket was 2% lower than the national average
Enabled ALP’s central visibility over Meraki port, which, without additional software, allows scheduling for Wi-Fi management or power scheduling to reduce overnight electricity use.
Advantex and their subcontractors participated in local career days, broadening awareness of opportunities in IT and fostering community engagement.
Advantex committed to hiring 2 local apprentices and has exceeded this goal by successfully onboarding 14.
Created two new Full-Time Equivalent (FTE) roles within the local economy due to ongoing project needs.
Lays the groundwork for integration with WiserWatts software for full energy monitoring, supporting ALP in meeting DfE’s climate goals.
Launched a Cyber Security initiative for children, offering free educational resources to schools, promoting digital safety and responsible technology use.
References:
[1] https://educationbusinessuk.net/features/shining-light-energy-schools
