Portway Junior School
IT Infrastructure Transformation
Portway Junior School partnered with L.E.A.D. IT Services to deliver a full-scale transformation of its IT infrastructure – creating a secure, modern and future-ready digital environment to support both teaching and learning.
Portway Junior School partnered with L.E.A.D. IT Services to modernise its IT environment, moving away from ageing infrastructure to a secure, high-performing and future-ready platform that better supports teaching and learning.
The school’s existing setup presented familiar challenges—unreliable network performance, inconsistent Wi-Fi coverage and a reliance on on-premises servers that limited flexibility. At the same time, increasing safeguarding expectations and the growing use of cloud-based tools meant a more strategic approach to IT was needed.
Our Solution
L.E.A.D. IT Services delivered a comprehensive infrastructure upgrade, beginning with a full redesign of the school’s network. New switches were installed, communications cabinets optimised, and a high-performance Wi-Fi solution deployed across the site. The result was a fast, stable and scalable network aligned with current DfE standards, capable of supporting modern classroom demands.
Alongside this, the school transitioned from its on-premises environment to a cloud-managed model using Microsoft Intune. This enabled centralised device management, reduced maintenance overhead and gave staff greater flexibility in how technology is used day-to-day. Files and collaboration tools were migrated to Microsoft Teams and OneDrive, allowing secure access to data from any location while improving collaboration across the school.
Security and safeguarding were embedded throughout the project, including the implementation of multi-factor authentication and stronger access controls. The solution provides a robust and scalable platform designed to support future growth and increasing digital demands
The impact has been immediate. Network reliability and performance have significantly improved, Wi-Fi is consistent across all learning spaces, and staff and pupils now benefit from seamless access to digital tools. The move to cloud services has also simplified IT management while strengthening the school’s overall security posture.
Delivering technology-enabled lessons without disruption
Reliable, high-performance infrastructure ensures lessons run smoothly without interruptions, delays or connectivity issues.
Supporting 1:1 and shared device usage across classrooms
Scalable network and device management supports seamless use of shared and individual student devices.
Enabling remote and flexible working for staff
Cloud-based systems give staff secure, flexible access to tools, resources and data from anywhere.
Providing a secure digital environment aligned with safeguarding priorities
Robust security controls and monitoring ensure data protection and support safeguarding responsibilities across the school.
The Results
More than a technical upgrade, the project has created an environment where technology supports teaching rather than interrupting it – enabling more flexible working, more engaging lessons and a stronger foundation for future innovation.
“From planning to delivery, L.E.A.D. IT Services provided clear guidance and expert support throughout the project.”
This project reflects L.E.A.D. IT Services’ broader approach: combining infrastructure, cloud and security into a single, joined-up solution that helps schools reduce complexity, manage risk and focus on delivering high-quality education.