Schools today rely on technology more than ever - for teaching, learning, safeguarding, administration and beyond. But many don’t have the in-house capacity to manage it strategically, and that’s where a virtual IT Director comes into play.
From providing strategic guidance to ensuring safeguarding and security, find out more about the benefits of a virtual IT director below - plus why Novatia should be your first port of call.
What is a virtual IT director?
A virtual IT director is a remote or part-time technology leader who provides strategic guidance, planning and oversight for all aspects of a school's IT infrastructure - without the cost of a full-time, in-house position.
Restricted finances and competing priorities mean many educational organisations simply don’t have the budget or need for a full-time IT director. A virtual IT director offers expert support to make sure technology enhances teaching and learning while remaining secure, cost-effective and aligned with pedagogical goals… but without adding to the headcount.
While key responsibilities are flexible depending on your current situation and specific requirements, they commonly include:
- Forming a robust EdTech strategy - helping schools choose and implement the right educational technologies, from LMS and AI-enabled software to classroom devices such as laptops and tablets.
- Digital safeguarding - ensuring students and staff are protected online, with proper filtering, monitoring and e-safety policies in place. Amid the rise of AI use in schools, this is growing increasingly important.
- Cybersecurity and data protection - making sure school data is secure and compliant with regulations like UK GDPR and DfE guidelines.
- Budget and procurement advice - assisting with technology budgeting and ensuring best value from suppliers.
- Staff training planning - identifying training needs and supporting digital skills development for teachers and administrative staff.
- Creating a futureproof ICT strategy - helping form a long-term vision in collaboration with your ICT team for how technology supports teaching, learning and administrative operations.
What are the benefits of virtual IT director services?
Virtual IT director services offer several advantages over solely relying on your in-house team - including:
- Blending in-house management with outsourced support - hiring a virtual IT director to support your in-house team brings you the best of both expertise worlds. You’ll have a robust onsite presence with external backup when needed, ensuring scalable yet personalised support and the flexibility to adapt over time.
- Transition support - at times of growth, major projects and organisational change, a virtual IT Director can provide an assured ‘safe pair of hands’ to support a senior leadership with many other things that demand their focus.
- Strategic IT planning - a virtual IT director will help develop and maintain a clear IT strategy that aligns with the school's educational goals. This includes planning for device refresh cycles, infrastructure upgrades and future digital learning initiatives.
- Cybersecurity support - virtual directors will oversee policies and systems to keep school data secure and ensure you’re up to date with DfE regulations,
- An improved learning experience - by ensuring the right technology is in place and used effectively, they help teachers deliver better lessons and improve student engagement and outcomes
- Cost effectiveness - hiring a full-time IT director can be expensive. A virtual IT director provides senior-level expertise on a part-time or as-needed basis, making it ideal for schools with limited budgets.
- An independent perspective - unlike vendors or managed service providers, a virtual IT director works for the school’s interests alone. They offer impartial guidance on purchasing decisions, avoiding unnecessary spending.
Why choose us?
Our Virtual IT Director services offer strategic IT leadership that empowers educational institutions to thrive in a digital age.
With decades of experience in the UK education sector, Novatia has established itself as a trusted ICT consultancy across the country. Our team has collaborated with more than 250 clients, including supporting the growth journey of notable MATs such as TKAT, OAT and ATT, providing proven solutions that enhance learning outcomes.
We work with you to create durable digital strategies that stand the test of time. Browse our case studies to explore how we've helped schools like yours succeed.
To find out more about what we can bring to your educational institution, please get in touch today.
