Windows 10 End of Life: Why It Matters for Schools – And How Joskos Can Help You Get Ready

At Joskos, we’re already guiding schools and Trusts through their Windows 11 migrations. Whether you're managing a handful of classroom devices or an estate across multiple sites, planning ahead is the key to minimising disruption and maximising long-term value.

Why Is Windows 10 Reaching End of Life?

Microsoft has always operated on fixed support lifecycles for its operating systems. Windows 10 launched in 2015, and after a decade of service, it will reach the end of its extended support in 2025. After this date:

• No security patches will be issued, leaving devices vulnerable to cyber threats.
• No bug fixes or software updates will be provided.
• No official support from Microsoft will be available.

For schools, this isn’t just an IT issue — it’s a safeguarding, compliance, and teaching continuity issue.

Why Upgrade to Windows 11?

Windows 11 has been built with modern learning environments in mind. It offers:

• Enhanced security by design, including hardware-based protections like TPM 2.0.
• Improved performance and battery life, ideal for hybrid or mobile learning setups.
• A cleaner, more intuitive interface, supporting accessibility and ease of use.
• Better integration with cloud-based tools, like Microsoft 365 and Teams for Education.

In short, it’s built to support the way schools teach and work today — and tomorrow.

Your Windows 11 Readiness Checklist

Migrating to a new operating system doesn’t need to be stressful. Here's a simple checklist schools can use to begin preparing:

✅ 1. Audit Your Device Estate

• Identify all current Windows 10 devices across your school or Trust.
• Check hardware compatibility with Windows 11 (we can help automate this).

✅ 2. Prioritise Critical Systems

• Highlight devices used for safeguarding, MIS, finance, and leadership.
• Ensure these are scheduled for early upgrade or replacement.

✅ 3. Review Licensing & Warranty

• Confirm whether devices are still under warranty or due for refresh.
• Review your Microsoft licensing to ensure you're ready for Windows 11.

✅ 4. Plan Device Replacement or Upgrade

• Where hardware doesn’t support Windows 11, plan a phased replacement.
• Consider sustainable options like device recycling or repurposing.

✅ 5. Communicate with Staff Early

• Let teachers and admin teams know what’s coming and when.
• Offer support and training where interfaces or features differ.

✅ 6. Back-Up and Secure Data

• Ensure user profiles, documents, and shared drives are backed up ahead of any upgrade.
• Use this opportunity to review data storage and security policies.

✅ 7. Test Before You Roll Out

• Pilot Windows 11 in a small area (e.g. IT suite, SLT devices).
• Collect feedback and tweak your rollout plan accordingly.

Let Joskos Help You Migrate with Confidence

As education IT specialists, Joskos is already supporting schools and Trusts with seamless, secure, and strategic Windows 11 migrations. We’ll work with you to:

• Audit your current devices and software
• Assess Windows 11 compatibility
• Build a step-by-step migration plan
• Train your staff on new features and interfaces
• Support you before, during, and after the migration

Get ahead of the 2025 deadline. Speak to our team today about your Windows 11 readiness review — and let’s start future-proofing your IT estate together.

📩 Contact Joskos to Book Your Readiness Assessment

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