What is SILC?

Schools Innovative Leadership Committee (SILC) is a community-led networking group that empowers IT professionals to drive positive change within their organisations. By leveraging the insights and experiences of IT leaders in education and collaborating with Softcat and their partners, SILC fosters innovation and leadership among its members. Join us to be at the forefront of transformative change in the IT landscape.

What value does SILC offer?

SILC has unlocked unparalleled opportunities for us to exchange insights and forge strong connections within the community, fostering a vibrant network of collaboration.

SILC Steering Group

Join the group

The SILC group thrives on a dynamic, private, LinkedIn community where members are encouraged to share their challenges, insights and experiences. Softcat enhances this experience by providing cutting-edge updates and trends from the IT channel through the LinkedIn group and engaging quarterly webinars. Join us to be part of an exciting and professional network that drives innovation in the education sector.

Meet the steering group

Rob Hagon

Director of IT, Haberdashers’ Elstree Schools

Rob Hagon held the roles of ICT Technician, Technical Support Manager, Head of IT Services, and Director of IT and Digital Learning Services at St Albans School before moving to Haberdashers’ Elstree Schools. His areas of expertise include customer service, digital strategy, Microsoft 365, cyber security, system administration, and IT service management. When asked what Rob values about SILC, he said, "Being part of a focused community of school IT leaders and having the opportunity to share our challenges and successes, hear how others have overcome challenges, hear new ideas or approaches, and dig into topics that I might otherwise avoid!"

Mark Redding

Education Strategy Manager, Intersys Ltd

Mark held the role of Head of ICT Services at Felsted School before moving to Intersys Ltd (a Microsoft Solutions Partner) as the IT Services Manager for Flourish Learning Trust. He now takes the strategic lead at a number of the schools whose IT is managed by Intersys. His areas of expertise include digital strategy, Google Apps administration, Microsoft 365 administration, Linux administration, network administration, software development, incident management and change management. When asked what Mark values about SILC, he said, "When I joined the pilot group, working at a school using Google apps for education, I was able to bring a different perspective to the other members. I still find that having a broad spectrum of expertise to be invaluable as a group."

Nik Cragg

Head of IT, University College School Foundation

Nik Cragg's career has included roles at St Albans School before taking on his current position at University College School Foundation. His expertise encompasses Google Workspace, cloud infrastructure, project management, and information security governance. Nik values SILC for its opportunities to network and exchange best practices with other IT leaders, as well as for fostering cross-sector partnerships that contribute to shaping the future of IT within education.

Steve Kerns

Director of IT, Altus Education Partnership

Steve Kerns is a seasoned IT professional with extensive experience in IT management, technical support, and system administration. In his current role as Director of IT at Altus Education Partnership, Steve specialises in IT strategy, project management, and business continuity. With over two decades of expertise, he has held key roles at a number of Educational institutes. Steve excels in managing complex IT infrastructures, leading teams, and ensuring seamless technical operations across educational institutions. “I'm excited to be part of the SILC project, as it offers a valuable space for collaboration with fellow IT professionals to address key industry challenges. It's great to have Softcat involved, given their long-standing role as a reliable service provider in the IT environment. Their extensive experience in delivering practical solutions adds significant value to our discussions. This collaboration enhances the group's ability to develop innovative and effective IT strategies that benefit the broader technology community.”

Atif Hussain

Director of Digital Strategy and Data, Ardingly

Experience — In my previous life I worked as an IT analyst and consultant for one of the largest private networks in the UK. I then transitioned into teaching, accumulating 20 years of international teaching experience across seven countries on three continents, most of which were senior Director‑of‑IT roles. I now also serve on the Board of Governors at a university where I able to share my IT and International experience. ⁣ Areas of expertise — Strategic IT governance, ethical AI design and training, cloud‑centric digital transformation, operations analysis with KPI, change management, and inclusive leadership, all filtered through a dyslexic, big‑picture mindset that constantly seeking connections between people and technology. What value I get from SILC and why I’m involved — SILC provides regular, peer‑tested insights on the latest technology. It brings together a network of like‑minded leaders and experts, helping sharpen my strategic thinking through critical observations and shared experiences.

Latest events & content

Blog

Embracing the future: Data, AI, and Automation in independent schools

September 2025

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Blog

Why education IT professionals should be buzzing about SILC

October 2024

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Blog

And that’s a wrap! A recap of Bett 2025

February 2025

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Webinar

Transforming Education: Your Guide to Windows 11

April 2025

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Get in touch

Still have questions? Reach out to your Softcat Account Manager, or get in touch using the form and a member of the team will contact you!

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