Windows 10 End of Support: Essential Upgrade Guide for Schools

As we hurtle toward an increasingly digital education landscape, many schools are facing a significant IT challenge: Microsoft will stop supporting Windows 10 from 15 October 2025. With approximately 93% of secondary schools and 85% of primary schools in England relying on this operating system, the transition is no small feat. In this article, we’ll break down what this means for schools, examine the risks of maintaining outdated systems, and provide a strategic roadmap for a seamless upgrade to Windows 11.

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Windows 10 End-of-Life: What’s Changing?​

The Critical Cutoff Date​

On 15 October 2025, Microsoft will cease releasing security fixes and operational updates for Windows 10 unless organizations opt for extended support—a solution that comes with a steep price tag. This shift isn’t limited to traditional desktop computers; it affects all systems running Windows 10. Think beyond laptops and PCs—catering tills, digital signage, CCTV systems, and other critical infrastructure in schools will also face heightened risks if left on an unsupported platform.

The Security Implications​

Imagine leaving the front door of your school wide open. Without regular security updates, every system running Windows 10 becomes an attractive target for cybercriminals. As cyber threats become ever more sophisticated, schools cannot afford vulnerabilities that may result in data breaches, downtime, or worse, the compromise of sensitive student and staff data.

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Why the Push to Windows 11?​

Enhanced Features and Improved Security​

Transitioning to Windows 11 is not just a matter of keeping up with Microsoft’s roadmap—it’s an opportunity to benefit from modernized cyber defenses and productivity enhancements. Windows 11 brings a host of improvements:

• Robust Security Enhancements: Regular security updates and advanced threat protection features help safeguard school networks.
• Modern User Interface: A streamlined, intuitive interface that can ease the transition for both IT staff and end users.
• Integrated AI Tools: New features such as Microsoft Copilot can boost productivity, streamline workflows, and assist in personalized learning environments. (For those curious about how these innovations can reshape the classroom experience, see our previous discussion on productivity enhancements Maximize Productivity with Microsoft Copilot: Personalize Your Workflow.)

The Cost of Inaction​

While upgrading may seem like a costly and time-consuming endeavor, delaying the transition poses far greater risks:

• Cybersecurity Threats: Unsupported systems are vulnerable to attacks, which can lead to significant financial and reputational damage.
• Compliance and Data Protection: Keeping sensitive data on outdated systems may result in compliance issues, especially as data protection standards tighten.
• Operational Disruptions: Unplanned system failures or cyber incidents can disrupt the crucial educational activities that rely on smooth IT operations.

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Immediate Steps for a Smooth Transition​

1. Conduct a Comprehensive Inventory​

Begin by identifying every device running Windows 10 within your school or trust. This isn’t just about desktop PCs:

• Computers and Laptops: Catalog models and assess their compatibility with Windows 11.
• Peripheral Devices: Include catering systems, digital signage, security cameras, and any other tech operating on Windows 10.

2. Evaluate Hardware Compatibility​

Not every device can make the leap to Windows 11. Determine which systems meet the new hardware requirements—and which don’t. Ask yourself:

• Can our current hardware sustain the demands of modern software?
• What is the estimated lifespan of our devices in a Windows 11 environment?

3. Plan Your Budget​

Budgeting for an upgrade is a complex task that involves not only purchasing compatible hardware but also considering training, downtime, and potential IT support enhancements. Some key considerations:

• Total Cost of Ownership (TCO): Weigh the initial investment against long-term gains in security, efficiency, and support.
• Extended Support vs. New Hardware: While extended support is available, it’s a temporary, costly patch—not a long-term solution.

4. Engage with IT Partners and Suppliers​

Don’t go it alone. Engage with your IT partners to explore:

• Hardware refresh options that align with the requirements of Windows 11.
• Flexible support packages that can ease the transition period.
• Opportunities to learn from other institutions that have faced or are facing the same challenge.

5. Develop a Phased Rollout Plan​

Given the scope of the upgrade, a staggered approach may be most effective:

• Pilot Testing: Start with a few devices to gauge compatibility issues and system performance.
• Training Sessions: Prepare IT staff and educators with workshops and hands-on sessions as they transition to the new environment.
• Gradual Rollout: Roll out upgrades systematically across different departments or sites to minimize operational disruptions.

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Real-World Insights: Learning from the David Ross Education Trust​

Ellis Jacklin, the IT and data director for the David Ross Education Trust, offers a compelling case study. Over the past two years, the trust has been methodically planning their upgrade across 37 schools. Their strategy included a complete hardware refresh and careful budgeting to ensure that the transition to Windows 11 was as smooth as possible. Jacklin emphasizes that while the upfront costs may seem intimidating, the cost of maintaining security and operational integrity far outweighs the expense of the upgrade.
Their proactive approach is a valuable template for other schools, illustrating that with strategic planning, even a large-scale IT transformation is manageable. By investing in modern hardware and leveraging expert partnerships, schools can protect their data, enhance their operational efficiency, and explore new educational technologies.

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Addressing the Challenge of Legacy Devices​

The Dilemma of Outdated Equipment​

A significant hurdle in the transition process is the prevalence of legacy devices that simply aren’t up to the task. For many schools, a vast quantity of hardware that once served well on Windows 10 will be incompatible with Windows 11.

Options for Legacy Devices​

• Continued, Extended Support: While extended support is an option, it is neither economically sustainable nor a long-term fix.
• Device Refresh or Replacement: Prioritize replacement of devices in critical areas of operation such as administration, security, and network management.
• Secondary Markets: Evaluate options for repurposing or selling outdated equipment to offset the cost of new purchases.

It’s crucial for schools to understand that legacy hardware can become a liability. Investing in up-to-date systems is not an optional luxury—it’s a necessary step in safeguarding the institution’s technological backbone.

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Cybersecurity Risks of Running an Unsupported OS​

Operating on an unsupported OS is akin to leaving your digital front door unlocked. Without ongoing security patches, vulnerabilities can be exploited more easily, potentially putting sensitive information at risk. School networks, which house personal data of students and staff, must be fortified against:

• Malware Attacks
• Ransomware Incidents
• Unauthorized Data Access

The transition to Windows 11 isn’t just a technical upgrade—it’s a critical security measure. With modern security frameworks and an architecture designed to fend off emerging threats, Windows 11 offers robust defense mechanisms that are non-negotiable for schools operating in today’s digital climate.

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Integrating Windows 11 Benefits into the Classroom​

New Productivity Tools and Collaborative Features​

While the impetus behind the upgrade is driven by support and security concerns, the move to Windows 11 also opens the door to a suite of enhanced productivity tools. For instance, features like Microsoft Copilot—discussed in our previous forum article https://windowsforum.com/threads/352924—can transform the educational experience by providing personalized workflows, automating repetitive tasks, and enabling more dynamic collaboration among educators and students.

Creating a Future-Ready Digital Ecosystem​

Transitioning to Windows 11 is more than a reactive measure against obsolescence; it’s an investment in the future. Schools that successfully make the transition will enjoy:

• Improved System Stability: Fewer crashes and glitch-related downtimes.
• Enhanced User Experience: An intuitive interface that can help both teachers and students adapt more quickly.
• Adaptability to Emerging Technologies: A platform that can seamlessly integrate with AI-driven educational tools and cloud-based solutions.

These advancements can help foster a more engaging and efficient learning environment, preparing students for a future where digital fluency is paramount.

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Step-by-Step Roadmap for School IT Administrators​

To summarize, here’s a high-level action plan for schools preparing for the Windows 10 end-of-life:

• Audit Your Devices:
• Create a detailed inventory of all systems running Windows 10.
• Identify crucial dependencies (like digital signage or security systems).
• Assess Hardware Upgrades:
• Evaluate which systems can upgrade to Windows 11.
• Determine the cost and timeline for replacing incompatible devices.
• Budget Strategically:
• Compare costs for extended support versus full hardware refresh.
• Explore potential government funding or partnerships to ease financial pressures.
• Engage Experts and Partners:
• Connect with IT service providers who can offer insights and support.
• Leverage experiences from institutions like the David Ross Education Trust to refine your strategy.
• Implement a Phased Transition:
• Pilot the upgrade with a small group of devices or departments.
• Use feedback and performance data to inform broader rollout plans.
• Ensure comprehensive training for all end users to facilitate a smooth changeover.
• Enhance Cybersecurity Measures:
• Plan for additional security audits during and after the transition.
• Update cybersecurity policies to reflect the new technological landscape.

By following these steps, educational institutions can mitigate risks and ensure that the critical process of transitioning from Windows 10 is as smooth—and as cost-effective—as possible.

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Conclusion: Embracing Change for a Secure Future​

The move away from Windows 10 is more than just a technical mandate—it’s a wake-up call for all educational institutions to reexamine their digital infrastructures. Despite the challenges and costs associated with an upgrade, the benefits of enhanced security, improved productivity, and future-proofing far outweigh the temporary discomforts of change.
For headteachers, IT administrators, and trust leaders, the message is clear: Act now. Engage with your IT partners, explore your options, and plan strategically to ensure that your school’s systems remain secure, compliant, and effective in the 21st-century digital classroom.
By embracing the upgrade to Windows 11, schools not only protect themselves against cyber threats, but also take a significant step toward a more innovative and efficient future—one classroom at a time.

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Have questions or need further insights into your upgrade strategy? Join the conversation on our Windows News Forum and share your experiences or seek expert advice from fellow IT professionals.

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Source: Tes Magazine How schools should prepare for the move away from Windows 10