IT Transformation: School IT Support in Surrey – A Case Study

When it comes to reliable and compliant school IT support in Surrey, IMS Computing stands out for delivering rapid transformation and long-term value. Here’s how we helped a local school move from internal IT challenges to a secure, compliant, and future-ready digital environment.

The Challenge

In mid-2024, an Independant School in Surrey (similar in size and needs to many Surrey schools) recognised that their internal IT support model was struggling to keep up with modern compliance, safeguarding, and technology demands. Leadership wanted to ensure their systems were secure, compliant, and ready for the future—especially with the increasing complexity of statutory requirements.

Our Approach

IMS Computing began with a comprehensive technical assessment, identifying critical risks such as:

• Insecure user account management and weak password policies

• No formal joiner/leaver processes

• Insufficient safeguarding monitoring and filtering for offsite devices

• Gaps in backup and disaster recovery

• Outdated software and hardware, unmanaged devices, and patching gaps

• DNS and email security misconfigurations

• Lack of system documentation and proactive monitoring

Rapid Remediation & Compliance

Having engaged our services, within the first month, all critical risks identified were addressed:

• Secured user accounts and enforced password complexity

• Implemented robust backup routines for all critical systems

• Resolved DNS and email security issues (including DKIM/DMARC setup)

• Deployed advanced antivirus and removed unsupported software

• Introduced formal joiner/leaver and password reset processes

Safeguarding & Compliance:We introduced monitoring solutions to meet KCSIE requirements, enhanced filtering for on-site devices, improved logging and access controls, and reconfigured unmanaged devices for secure educational use.

Operational Transformation

• Improved hybrid deployment with new Intune and Azure AD sync for device management

• Standardised device builds and automated deployment

• Planned and executed the transition to Windows 11 and Office Apps for M365, ensuring all devices and users would remain secure and compliant

Ongoing Improvement

Over the following months, we:

• Rolled out patch management and OS update automation

• Upgraded network infrastructure for future-proofing

• Audited assets and introduced new management processes

• Developed an AI usage policy and improved systems documentation

• Formalised disaster recovery plans

The Impact

The school’s IT environment is now:

• Secure and compliant with all statutory and best practice requirements

• Reliable and resilient, reducing downtime and classroom disruption

• Ready for the future, with all devices prepared for Windows 11 and Office Apps

For parents:These improvements mean confidence that their children are learning in a safe, well-managed digital environment, with robust safeguarding and data protection.

For pupils:A modern, secure IT environment enables more engaging lessons, smoother collaboration, and fewer disruptions—supporting creativity, communication, and digital skills for the future.

Why Choose IMS Computing for School IT Support in Surrey?

This case study demonstrates IMS Computing’s ability to deliver rapid, sustainable IT transformation for schools across Surrey. Our structured, partnership-led approach ensures immediate risk reduction, ongoing improvement, and future readiness—including proactive upgrades for major compliance deadlines.

Ready to transform your school’s IT?Contact IMS Computing for expert, people-focused school IT support in Surrey.