The Derby High School
Overcoming IT Challenges: How The Derby High School Modernised with DMS
THE CLIENT
The Derby High School, located in Bury, Greater Manchester, is a thriving secondary school and sixth form centre, well-known for its inclusive environment and commitment to fostering excellence in academics, the arts, and extracurricular activities. With a diverse student body and a reputation for innovation, the school actively seeks to equip its students with the skills needed to thrive in a rapidly changing world.
The partnership between The Derby High School and DMS began in 2011 with a comprehensive refresh of the school’s server structure. Over the years, this relationship has evolved into a trusted collaboration, with DMS consistently providing expert support and guidance.
THE CHALLENGE
The Derby High School faced several pressing IT issues that required expert assistance. Transitioning to Windows 11 across the campus was essential to maintain operational efficiency but required careful execution to minimise disruption. Migrating large volumes of data to the Microsoft 365 platform was another challenge that demanded a precise approach to ensure continuity. Additionally, the school sought to enhance its cyber security measures to protect sensitive information and mitigate emerging threats.
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THE PROCESS
DMS worked closely with The Derby High School to address these challenges and implement effective solutions. The migration to Microsoft 365 was carefully managed, ensuring minimal downtime and uninterrupted operations. The deployment of Windows 11 across all devices included custom configurations and server policy updates to support a smooth transition.
To bolster the school’s cyber security, DMS implemented KnowBe4, a training platform that helped staff recognise and mitigate potential threats such as phishing attacks. This proactive approach strengthened the school’s overall security posture.
DMS also introduced Netflow, a versatile tool that transformed day-to-day IT management. Features such as policy management, printer deployment, and the ability to perform scheduled shutdowns streamlined operations, reducing the workload on IT technicians.
BENEFITS INCLUDE
Keith Tomlinson, the Network Manager at The Derby High School, praised DMS, stating, “Friendly and professional service. They listen to what you would like to do and are always happy to help. The seminars are useful as well for upcoming changes and challenges for network managers.”
The collaboration between The Derby High School and DMS addressed the school’s immediate IT challenges while laying the groundwork for long-term improvements. The successful migration to Microsoft 365 and deployment of Windows 11 ensured the school’s IT infrastructure remained reliable and up-to-date. The implementation of KnowBe4 significantly enhanced staff awareness and reduced the risk of security breaches. Netflow empowered staff to handle minor issues quickly, freeing up resources for more critical tasks and enabling seamless user and device management.
DMS’s support services also provided the school with ongoing guidance and expertise, ensuring IT systems operated efficiently. This partnership allowed the school to focus on its educational objectives, confident that its IT needs were in capable hands.
… RESULT
The partnership between The Derby High School and DMS continues to deliver value, addressing key IT challenges and ensuring the school’s systems remain secure and efficient. Together, the teams have built a robust foundation that supports the school’s mission of providing a high-quality educational experience. This enduring relationship highlights the strength of collaboration in achieving long-term success.