Strengthening Security & Compliance in Education – Highlights from Microsoft’s Reading Office
On Wednesday 8th October, DMS hosted its latest Strengthening Security & Compliance in Education seminar at Microsoft’s Reading office. The event brought together IT leaders and decision-makers from schools, colleges, and MATs to discuss evolving security challenges — and how AI and cloud technologies are reshaping the education landscape.
What Was Covered
Client & Data Management from the Cloud
The day opened with a session from Jim Prendergast, Technical Director at DMS, who discussed client and data management from the cloud. He shared practical insight into how cloud-based systems can simplify device management, improve data visibility, and strengthen compliance across multi-site environments.
Microsoft on AI & Copilot in Education
Microsoft followed with a highly anticipated session on their overarching AI strategy and the direction of travel for Copilot in education. Their presentation explored how AI is being integrated across Microsoft 365, the opportunities this creates for educators and administrators, and the principles guiding responsible AI adoption in schools.
Cyber Crime in the Age of AI
Mark Stockley, Cyber Security Evangelist at Malwarebytes, delivered an engaging session on cyber crime in the age of AI. He explored how artificial intelligence is influencing both attackers and defenders, and why endpoint protection remains a crucial layer of defence against emerging threats.
Immutable Backup & Ransomware Protection
Closing the day, David Johnson from Object First presented on immutable backup and ransomware protection. His session demonstrated how educational organisations can build robust data resilience strategies, ensuring critical systems and information remain recoverable even in the event of a cyber attack.
Collaboration & Shared Learning
The event concluded with networking and open discussion, giving attendees the opportunity to share experiences and explore how to strengthen security and compliance within their own environments.
A huge thank you to all our speakers and to everyone who joined us in Reading — your participation and engagement made the day a great success.
If you couldn’t attend but would like to learn more about any of the topics covered — from Microsoft Copilot and AI strategy to endpoint protection and backup resilience — our team would be happy to help.
Visit our events page to explore upcoming seminars and webinars.
