Safeguarding in schools is well established. Policies, training, and processes are in place for good reason. What is less visible is the role everyday technology plays in supporting those safeguards.
School devices sit underneath almost everything staff do, from accessing safeguarding systems to handling sensitive pupil information. When those devices are secure and supported, they quietly do their job. When support ends, the level of protection changes, even if nothing appears different on the surface.
This is where the upcoming change from Windows 10 to Windows 11 becomes relevant.
A Quick Refresher on Windows Changes
Many schools will already be aware that Windows 10 is reaching the end of its supported life. For those who may not, or who are still reviewing the detail, it is worth understanding what this means in practice.
Once Windows 10 reaches end of support:
- Microsoft will stop providing standard security updates
Newly discovered vulnerabilities will no longer be fixed
Devices will continue to function, but with increasing security risk over time
This change does not cause immediate disruption. Instead, it quietly reduces the level of protection in place unless steps are taken.
Why This Matters in a School Environment
School devices are often shared, used by multiple staff and pupils, and relied on to access sensitive systems and data. Safeguarding, filtering, monitoring, and user access controls all depend on the underlying security of the operating system.
When security updates stop, schools are left with fewer layers of protection in place. Over time, this can undermine the safeguards schools already work hard to maintain.
What Options are Available
There is no single approach that fits every school.
Some schools are ready to upgrade eligible devices to Windows 11 and are already planning or delivering that transition. Others need more time due to device age, budgets, or wider infrastructure considerations.
In these cases, Windows 10 Extended Security Updates can provide a short-term safety net, helping schools remain protected while longer-term plans are put in place.
We support schools at different stages of this journey, including:
- Guidance on applying and managing Windows 10 Extended Security Updates
Planning and delivering upgrades to Windows 11
Reviewing device estates to ensure systems remain secure and efficient
Our focus is on helping schools reduce risk in a way that aligns with their environment, budgets, and timescales.
Looking Ahead
Safeguarding includes the digital foundations schools rely on every day. By understanding what the Windows 10 change means and having a clear plan in place, schools can move forward with confidence, knowing their systems continue to support the standards already in place.
If you would like help reviewing your options or need assistance with your next steps, contact our team today – we are here to help.