Cyber Essentials and Cyber Essentials Plus for Schools and Multi-Academy Trusts

Strengthen Cyber Security and Demonstrate Best Practice

Schools and Multi-Academy Trusts are increasingly reliant on technology to support teaching, learning, safeguarding and day-to-day operations. At the same time, cyber threats continue to grow, placing pressure on school leaders to ensure that systems, data and users remain protected.

Cyber Essentials and Cyber Essentials Plus are UK Government-backed cyber security certifications that help schools demonstrate that effective security controls are in place to defend against the most common cyber attacks.

At Oakford Technology, we help primary schools, secondary schools and Multi-Academy Trusts achieve Cyber Essentials and Cyber Essentials Plus certification through expert consultancy, technical guidance, remediation support and ongoing cyber security advice.

Whether you are approaching certification for the first time or renewing an existing accreditation, our education-focused cyber security specialists can help you navigate the process with confidence.

Comprehensive IT Audits

Clarity, insight, and a complete picture of your current position.

If you’re unsure about your ICT environment — or need an independent, expert review — Oakford delivers a structured, education-focused audit covering:

  • Server and cloud infrastructure
  • Physical and wireless networks
  • Cybersecurity posture
  • GDPR & data protection compliance
  • End-user devices
  • IT support processes and staffing
  • Classroom technology
  • Backup and disaster recovery systems

Audits include on-site and remote assessment, a detailed written report, and a wash-up meeting to review findings and prioritised recommendations.

Strategic IT Consultancy

Turn your ideas into a clear, achievable roadmap.

Whether you’re planning the next stage of your school’s development or shaping a MAT-wide digital strategy, our consultants work with senior leaders to design structured, realistic long-term plans.

Your strategic roadmap can include:

  • 3- or 5-year ICT development planning
  • Budget forecasting
  • Cloud strategy and migration plans
  • Security and compliance improvement
  • Network modernisation
  • Curriculum-aligned digital development
  • Onboarding technology for new MAT schools

We turn your goals into actionable, fully costed plans your leadership team can trust.

Solution Development & Innovation

Leverage proven solutions or develop something unique.

Oakford continuously invests in research and development, creating reliable, tested solutions for schools and MATs. Where appropriate, we can deploy an existing solution for rapid results — or design a bespoke one if your requirements are unique.

Our development services include:

  • Solution design & prototyping
  • Test-environment validation
  • Full deployment and handover
  • Optional ongoing management & refinement

This ensures your organisation benefits from innovation backed by real-world experience.

Compliance & Cybersecurity Consultancy

Meet the standards your school or MAT is responsible for.

Many sectors — including education — face strict compliance demands. Oakford provides comprehensive support to strengthen your compliance position, including:

  • GDPR technical auditing
  • Cybersecurity audits
  • Vulnerability scanning
  • Policy development
  • Risk reduction planning
  • Assistance with achieving Cyber Essentials & Cyber Essentials Plus accreditations

This helps your organisation demonstrate compliance, reduce risk, and align with national guidance including DfE and NCSC expectations.

Why Schools & MATs Choose Oakford for Consultancy

Education Experts

Over 20 years supporting ICT in primary, secondary, SEN and MAT environments.

Independent Expert Advice

We're not tied to any single vendor — we recommend what's right for you.

Trusted & Proven

Most new customers join us through referrals — a testament to the quality of our work.

DBS Checked Consultants

All consultancy staff are DBS checked and understand safeguarding requirements.

Clear, Actionable Deliverables

Every project includes documented outcomes, next steps, and leadership friendly reporting.

Find Out More

We offer a free consultation for schools, academies and Multi Academy Trusts. Contact us today to see how we can support your next stage of IT development.

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