Multi Academy Trusts (MATs) are complex and dynamic organisations. Many different variables affect how a MAT operates, including its size, the way resources are controlled, the ethos of the trust and the unique identities of the schools within it.
Managing technology in the multi academy trust setting can be a challenge as whilst there are common issues and benefits each MAT has unique requirements. When it comes to IT support and services, it is critical that a supplier has a real grasp of the MAT’s educational and organisational objectives. They will need to understand the MAT’s vision for the future and the impact the changing education landscape may have on the ICT infrastructure.
The structure of the multi academy trust lends itself well to the model of outsourcing. MAT wide contracts and the centralisation of resources and systems reduce costs and saves time on administration, freeing up money and staff to enhance teaching and learning.
At Platform 365 for Education we are well aware that not all IT support providers are created equal! We understand that there are trusts that have outsourced their IT support but have subsequently taken the service back in house because of poor quality and escalating costs.
Our IT Support for Multi Academy Trusts service is designed to offer you complete peace of mind when it comes to consistency of service levels and value for money. There is total transparency in our pricing policy and, we guarantee, you will never incur any hidden costs.The clients we support in the education section can testify to the quality and openness of our service.
The opportunities to optimise your ICT provision to minimise cost, maximise efficiency and ensure consistency lie in our ability to identify and eliminate the “pain points” in your current IT systems and procedures. Using the right technology, such as Microsoft Office 365, will enable students, teachers and support staff to collaborate and share resources and knowledge. However, connectivity will be key in creating the right environment for this to happen – broadband, Wi-Fi and cabling all play a part in the establishment of safe, secure and fast connections. The same principle applies to cloud-based technology. Again, this is an area where MATs have the potential to reap huge benefits – reduced costs, greater flexibility and scalability but if the connectivity is not up to scratch those advantages will not be realised.
There is potential to make significant savings with the right IT procurement strategy and purchasing expertise. MATs can enjoy economies of scale, but only if they are buying in the right hardware and software.
Platform 365 for Education IT Support for Multi Academy Trust service is totally flexible. Tell us the level of IT support that you require and we will deliver it, from a fully managed IT support system to advice on just one element of your IT infrastructure, such as cyber security or hardware maintenance.
Fast Facts:
- Scalable support solutions to grow with your schools
- Scheduled and ad hoc KPI reporting
- Dedicated Service Desk phone number
- Liaison with 3rd party suppliers for CCTV, access solutions
- Money saving, impartial procurement process
- Simple, seamless transition from your existing supplier
- Collaborative planning for strategic school development
- Broadband, Wifi, security, mobile device and AV provision
- Microsoft, Google and MIS cloud-based solutions
- Business-class support with educational expertise
Our Managed IT Support Service for MATs Includes:
Comprehensive onboarding process
Unlimited onsite support as standard
UK based service desk
Cybersecurity solutions and support
Software licence management
Hardware and software procurement
Mobile Device Management (MDM)
Off-site backup solutions
Incident and change management
Wireless networks solutions & support
24/7 network monitoring
Audio-Visual solutions & support
CCTV and digital signage
MIS integration and support
Asset management
Infrastructure cabling solutions
On-going ICT strategic planning
Compliance expertise including satisfying Ofsted and DfE requirements

Talk with an expert. Joanna Roberts, our IT for Schools Development Manager, has 20 years experience in the education sector, 6 of those at the top level. Call or email Jo to find out how we can help you on 020 3929 9360
What Our Clients Say
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Sourcing a reliable IT support company was incredibly important for us here at BESA after we moved on from our previous provider. We have been working with Platform 365 for over six months now and are pleased with their professional service. The helpdesk always responds in good time and the team are always on hand to come to the office – something our old provider would not consider without payment! They have restored our confidence in IT support and would recommend them without hesitation.Mark Rosser – Communications Manager
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Sourcing the right IT supplier was a key decision to the ongoing task of improving service, functionality and cost saving across all six schools and the administration teams throughout the Trust. Platform 365’s proposal was the stand-out solution and we had no hesitation in bringing them on-board. Our decision has been completely vindicated.Verity Bolton – Trust Services Manager - The Spring Partnership Trust
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Their approach is flexible in that they are able to tailor their services to exactly match our requirements and their staff are always willing to help out if problems occur. They work with us as a partner rather than a service provider... understanding that time is money, and that supporting the IT needs of a business is about more than just resolving a help desk ticket.Dave Smith – Head of IT Division - Pacific Life Re
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Platform 365 have made a huge difference to our ICT and Computing provision over the course of the last year. By offering a flexible solution, which is based on understanding our need, and working closely with us, Platform 365 have provided the infrastructure that allows us to deliver teaching using digital tools that impact positively on learning. Platform 365’s service is totally different to the traditional school based solution of seeing a technician once a week. They respond as required to ensure hardware, software, servers, and much more, not only work but also that we can use all of our technology to its full potential.Adam Lowing – Head of School - St Mary Cray Primary Academy
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We have been a client of Platform 365’s for over 3 years now. Our employee number has tripled in that time which has never been an issue to them, so they can handle both small and medium sized businesses well. Their turnaround time to resolve a problem is quick and they are always extremely polite and helpful when we do have to liaise with them.Lauren Duke – Office Manager – Touchlight Genetics




