Next Generation IT blog
The latest insight from the Next Gen team: safeguarding, filtering and monitoring, DfE technology standards, cyber security and classroom technology for UK schools and trusts.
PSTN Switch-Off: What Schools Need to Check Before January 2027
The PSTN switch-off affects more than your phones. A school checklist for lifts, alarms, door entry and your phone system before the copper lines go.
Filtering & MonitoringFiltering and Monitoring in Schools: What KCSIE 2026 Changed
KCSIE 2026 tightens the annual filtering and monitoring review. What the DfE filtering and monitoring standards for schools now expect, and a checklist.
ConnectivityWhy Schools Are Moving Away from MPLS to SD-WAN / VPN (and What It Means for You)
For years MPLS was the go-to for linking school sites together. Here's why schools are moving to SD-WAN and VPN, and what it means for you.
Online SafetyIs Scratch Really Safe for Schools? Here’s What You Need to Know
Scratch has become the go-to platform for teaching coding in primary and secondary schools. On the surface, it’s brilliant — it’s free, fun, and helps…
Cyber SecurityPhishing Alert for Schools: Hackers Impersonating Headteachers Using Real Email Accounts
In recent weeks, we’ve seen a sharp increase in phishing emails targeting schools, and this time, the attackers are stepping up their game.
LicensingThe MAT Storefront: Smarter Licensing for Smarter IT Teams
In a Multi-Academy Trust (MAT), the IT team is often the engine that keeps everything running — managing devices, safeguarding students, keeping networks…
Microsoft 365Wondering Why Your Microsoft A1 License Just Disappeared? Here’s What Schools Need to Know
Microsoft is discontinuing Office 365 A1 Plus, leaving many schools looking for an affordable alternative. Here is what has changed and what to do next.
ConnectivityNext Generation IT Partners with AllPoints Fibre to Revolutionise School Connectivity in West Yorkshire
Next Generation IT has partnered with AllPoints Fibre to provide CityFibre lines to schools across West Yorkshire, transforming school connectivity.
Cyber Security11 tips on making your school cyber secure
Eleven practical steps to make your school more cyber secure, from backing up data and strong passwords to safe remote working and spotting phishing emails.
ConnectivityMoving away from ICT4Leeds connectivity and Smoothwall
It has recently been announced that the services of ICT4Leeds are to be deceased and Leeds city council are looking to ask schools to change providers…
ConnectivityChoosing the right broadband connectivity package for your school
Choosing the right broadband connectivity package for a school can be a daunting task, but it is an important decision that can have a significant impact…
Cyber SecurityHow to Secure your schools Microsoft and/or Google tenant
A handy guide to help your school secure its Microsoft 365 and/or Google Workspace tenancy, protecting staff and pupil accounts from attack.
Microsoft 365How to choose the best Microsoft licensing for your school
Schools have a few options when subscribing to Microsoft products. We explore the licensing options to help you choose the best fit for your school.
Classroom TechnologyTop 5 things to think about when introducing Ipads into the classroom
So, your about to introduce ipads into the classroom, on the surface it seems a simple task but as you uncover the capabilities of the devices you will…