The Hidden Costs of Outdated IT Equipment in Schools

Outdated IT equipment doesn’t just slow lessons; it drains school budgets and staff morale. The **ASUS “Beyond the Frozen Screen” report** shows just how much this hidden cost is affecting education.

The Financial and Human Toll of Old Devices

Schools spend an average of £2,491 a year on hardware maintenance. This amount often exceeds the cost of upgrading to new devices. Furthermore, 56% of schools regularly discuss high IT maintenance costs at leadership level. Alarmingly, 46% of teachers report that poor IT negatively affects staff morale and retention.

When you factor in the lost teaching time, which amounts to over 23 hours per teacher per year, the true cost of old IT becomes significantly greater than the price of new devices.

Could Your Staff Be the Problem?

Ensuring you have the right team in place is as crucial as having the latest devices. Many of us know colleagues who outsource setup work at additional costs or fail to deliver on projects, leading to downtime in the classroom.

Slow deployment and poor maintenance of school IT systems can cause delays in the classroom. This potential shortfall can be avoided during the interview stage. Understanding your candidate’s skills and knowledge gives you confidence in hiring the right person.

Schools gather and are responsible for vast quantities of personal data from students, staff, parents, guardians, and carers. They hold countless photographs, names, addresses, phone numbers, and bank details. A breach in security puts everyone at risk.

The Importance of IT Security in Schools

In today's digital age, IT security is paramount. Schools must implement robust security measures to protect sensitive data. This includes regular software updates, firewalls, and staff training on data protection protocols.

Investing in new technology is not just about upgrading hardware; it’s about safeguarding the future of students and staff. When schools prioritise IT security, they foster a safe learning environment.

Partnering with Performance for Education

We work with schools to ensure your IT team can deliver real value. Our approach is simple:

• Identify knowledge gaps within your workforce.

• Assess and certify new IT team candidates.

• Give confidence to staff and parents that the right team is managing their data.

  
  

By addressing these areas, schools can enhance their IT infrastructure and improve overall performance.

Use our code WELCOME50 to get 50% off your first purchase.

Conclusion

In conclusion, outdated IT equipment poses significant challenges for schools. The financial and human costs are substantial. By investing in new technology and ensuring the right team is in place, schools can create a more efficient and secure learning environment.

Don't let outdated technology hold your school back. Embrace change and invest in the future of education.

For more insights, check out the **200 days of teaching time a year lost due to poor tech | Education Business**.