The impact of Windows 11 on the education market: transforming schools and colleges

Windows 11, Microsoft’s latest operating system, is set to reshape the educational landscape by making teaching and learning more dynamic, inclusive, and collaborative. Its new features and tools are designed to empower students and educators, creating classrooms that are more connected and efficient. For schools and colleges, Windows 11 promises to be a cornerstone of educational innovation. By leveraging Softcat's expertise and resources, schools can create an enriched learning environment that meets the diverse needs of today's students and prepares them for the future. 

Learnings from Softcat's Windows 11 education roundtable events 

Recently, Softcat hosted a series of Windows 11 education roundtable events in Manchester and London. These events brought together education leaders, IT professionals, and Microsoft experts to discuss the transformative potential of Windows 11 in the education sector. The discussions highlighted several key insights and learnings that are crucial for education leaders to consider. We’ve highlighted these in this blog post.  

1. Why education leaders should take notice 

Senior leaders in education have a critical role in driving change and ensuring that schools and colleges remain at the forefront of innovation. The release of Windows 11 is a moment they cannot afford to overlook. Here’s why: 

• Future-proofing institutions: Windows 11’s advanced tools and capabilities align with the digital transformation sweeping across education. By adopting this system, leaders can ensure their institutions remain competitive and well-equipped for the future. 

• Enhanced learning outcomes: the operating system’s features are designed to directly impact the quality of education by creating more engaging and accessible learning environments. 

• Cost-effective modernisation: with optimised performance and extended support for hybrid models, Windows 11 reduces the need for frequent hardware replacements, allowing schools to stretch budgets further. 

• Support for diversity and inclusion goals: by making education more inclusive with built-in accessibility tools, Windows 11 helps institutions support all learners effectively. 

2. More time for learning 

Windows 11 helps maximise classroom time by making technology more reliable and easier to use. Faster performance and streamlined features mean fewer delays and disruptions, allowing teachers to focus on teaching rather than troubleshooting devices. For students, quick access to their work ensures they can spend more time learning and less time navigating technology. 

3. A classroom environment that fosters focus 

The simplified design of Windows 11 encourages focus and minimises distractions, helping students stay engaged in their studies. The redesigned Start menu and easy-to-use interface make it simple for students to find the tools they need quickly. Features like Snap Layouts help students and teachers keep their tasks organised, making multitasking less overwhelming. Virtual Desktops also allow students to create separate spaces for schoolwork and personal use. 

4. Bringing everyone together 

Collaboration is essential for modern education, and Windows 11’s tools make it easier than ever for students and teachers to work together. With Microsoft Teams built in, hybrid and online learning becomes seamless. Whether it’s group projects or one-on-one mentoring, everyone can stay connected. Real-time collaboration tools allow students to brainstorm, edit, and create together, even if they’re not in the same room. Teachers can use features like breakout rooms to foster small group discussions and encourage teamwork. 

5. Supporting all learners 

Windows 11 includes features that ensure every student has the tools they need to succeed, regardless of their abilities or learning styles. Accessibility tools like Narrator and voice typing help students with disabilities participate fully in their education. Customisable settings for fonts, colours, and contrast make it easier for students to tailor their learning environment. Live captions and translation features ensure that language differences or hearing challenges don’t create barriers in the classroom. 

6. Creating a safe space to learn 

Safety and security are priorities in education, and Windows 11 offers features that help protect students and their work. Built-in security tools ensure that devices remain safe from cyber threats, and automatic updates provide ongoing protection without interrupting the school day. Parental and administrative controls allow schools to manage device usage and keep students focused on learning. 

7. Adapting to the future of learning 

As schools embrace hybrid and digital-first learning models, Windows 11 supports these transitions seamlessly. Integration with cloud services like Microsoft 365 ensures that students and teachers can access their work from anywhere. Tools like OneDrive automatically saves and syncs work, so students never lose important assignments. Virtual desktops enable personalised learning environments, reducing the need for expensive hardware upgrades. 

8. Simplifying technology for schools 

For educators and IT staff, Windows 11 makes managing technology easier, so they can focus on what matters most - learning. Education-specific devices, like those running Windows 11 SE, are designed to minimise distractions and simplify classroom management. Centralised tools allow IT administrators to deploy updates and manage devices efficiently across an entire school or region. 

For senior leaders in education, embracing Windows 11 is an opportunity to drive meaningful change, set new standards for teaching and learning, and inspire the next generation of learners and leaders. 

How can Softcat help?  

Windows 11 is more than just an operating system; it’s a platform for transforming education. By creating an environment that supports collaboration, inclusivity, and security, it empowers educators to teach more effectively and students to learn more fully.  

By partnering with Softcat, educational institutions can seamlessly integrate Windows 11 into their existing systems and infrastructure. Softcat offers comprehensive support services, ensuring a smooth transition with minimal disruption to teaching and learning. Our team of experts can provide tailored solutions, from initial consultation and deployment to ongoing maintenance and technical support. 

Softcat's professional development programmes help educators and IT staff maximise the potential of Windows 11, through training sessions and workshops designed to enhance their skills and knowledge. Furthermore, Softcat's commitment to cyber security ensures that schools can rely on robust protection for their networks and devices, safeguarding students' data and privacy. 

Our financing options and procurement services can enable schools to manage their budgets effectively, making cutting-edge technology accessible to all educational institutions, regardless of size or funding.  

Find out more and contact our dedicated Education team here.