As we approach the end of the spring term, schools and Multi-Academy Trusts (MATs) are busy preparing for the final months of the academic year. However, with many IT Support contracts up for renewal in August, now is the time to assess whether your current provider is truly meeting your needs.
Leaving this decision too late could result in another contract period with outdated systems, cybersecurity vulnerabilities, slow response times, or rising costs.
At Everything ICT, we make it easy for you to review and switch IT Support providers through our DfE-approved procurement framework. Our vetted suppliers offer high-quality, cost-effective, and future-proof IT Support solutions that evolve with your school’s needs.
To help you assess your IT Support before contract renewals, we’ve created this essential IT Support checklist.
1. Is your IT Support scalable?
As schools evolve, so do their technology needs. Whether you're adding new devices, expanding cloud-based learning, or integrating innovative teaching tools, your IT Support should scale alongside you. If your provider struggles to keep up—or worse, leaves you to figure things out on your own—it may be time to look elsewhere.
Through Everything ICT, schools can access IT Support partners who don’t just maintain systems but actively help you future-proof them.
2. Is your school cybersecure?
With cyber threats becoming more sophisticated, schools need robust security measures in place. If your IT Support provider isn’t actively monitoring for threats, running security audits, or training staff on best practices, your school may be at risk.
A strong IT partner will ensure your school stays compliant with GDPR regulations and cybersecurity best practices, protecting student and staff data.
3. Are your systems outdated?
Nothing slows down learning like unreliable or outdated technology. If your teachers are battling slow computers, students can’t access learning materials seamlessly, or your school network frequently lags, your IT Support provider may not be doing enough.
Effective IT Support partners should proactively suggest upgrades, keep your software current, and ensure that your systems are fully optimised – not just patch problems when they arise. If that’s not happening, Everything ICT can connect you with a provider who will keep your school ahead of the curve.
4. Does your IT Support deliver on SLAs?
Response times matter. A slow or unresponsive IT Support team can cause real disruptions to the classroom, leading to wasted lesson time and frustrated staff. If you've noticed that critical issues take too long to resolve or that your provider isn't as available as they should be, it’s time to reconsider your options.
Our DfE-approved framework provides schools with access to IT Support providers who offer clear service level agreements (SLAs) with measurable KPIs and guaranteed response times, ensuring you have the support you need when you need it. Our framework SLAs can include Service Credits where SLAs or KPIs are not met – meaning providers are held accountable for delivering the high standards of service your school deserves.
5. Are you getting value for money?
Many schools unwittingly overpay for IT Support that doesn’t meet their needs. Are you paying for services you don’t use, or could another provider offer a better service at the same price?
With Everything ICT’s procurement framework, schools can compare trusted IT Support providers who offer high-quality service at a competitive rate without sacrificing support.
6. Is your IT Support future-proof?
Schools need IT partners who do more than react to problem but proactively plan for what’s next. If your IT Support only fixes issues as they happen rather than proactively recommending improvements, your school could be falling behind.
Our DfE-approved framework provides access to IT Support providers who don’t just maintain systems but help schools stay ahead of emerging technology trends and suggest long-term improvements.
"The support offered by Everything ICT throughout our recent procurement was extensive, running from our initial meet to contract signing. The team quickly assessed the best route to achieving our goal and walked us through the processes, taking care of much of the legwork for us. I cannot recommend Everything ICT enough to anyone looking to run a tender."
Sam J - OLICAT
August is closer than you think
With many IT Support contracts expiring in just a few months, schools that wait too long to assess their current contract risk being stuck with an outdated, inflexible, or overpriced provider for another year.
Everything ICT simplifies the process of finding a better solution. Our DfE-approved procurement framework allows you to quickly and easily access trusted IT Support providers who deliver quality, security, and value for money. Our team of experts support you throughout the procurement, ensuring a fully compliant process that meets your requirements.
Don’t wait until it’s too late. Get in touch to explore your options and secure your IT Support before the new academic year begins.