MATs are prime targets for cyberattacks, and 2025 has already seen an increase in sophisticated, well-funded threats. The latest Academy Trust Handbook emphasises the need for strong cyber hygiene and robust recovery plans to protect school and trust data without disrupting learning. Critical questions continue to surround what guidance exists to strengthen defences, protect sensitive data and ensure resilience in a sometimes-hostile digital environment. This session will explore:

• Practical strategies to secure IT systems across multiple schools.
• How to implement recovery plans that minimise disruption and risk.
• Approaches to achieving high-level security even on constrained budgets.