Summer cybersecurity checklist: What schools should do before the break

As the summer holidays approach, many schools are focusing on end-of-year activities, transition planning, and a well-deserved break. However, the quieter months can also bring increased risks for cybersecurity incidents, as systems are left unattended.

Cybercriminals often take advantage of quieter periods when systems are left running with minimal oversight.  That’s why it’s important for schools to implement essential checks and updates to protect data, devices, and networks ahead of the summer holiday.

For many schools, the priority is ensuring these vital checks are completed efficiently during an already busy time of year. Everything ICT’s Department for Education (DfE)-approved framework provides access to trusted, pre-approved suppliers offering cybersecurity solutions, IT support, and training designed for education settings. This enables schools to action their cybersecurity plans quickly and compliantly ahead of the summer break.

Here’s a checklist of actions schools should prioritise in the lead-up to the summer holiday period:

1. Apply security and software updates before staff depart

Many schools plan routine maintenance for the summer, but critical updates shouldn’t wait until after everyone has left. Unpatched systems are a known target, especially over long breaks.

Actions to take now:

• Review and install pending security patches for operating systems, firewalls, and antivirus.

• Check that all cloud-based services and educational platforms are updated.

• Schedule automated updates where possible to continue over the break.

Our framework allows schools to quickly access trusted IT support providers who can manage update schedules, offer remote system health monitoring, and provide on-call assistance during the holidays.

2. Audit user accounts and tighten access controls

With staffing changes, student leavers, and temporary accounts created for events or exams, now is a key time to conduct an account audit.

Actions to take now:

• Disable or remove unused accounts.

• Review staff and administrator permissions.

• Confirm that MFA (multi-factor authentication) is enabled for key systems, including email and data storage.

Everything ICT connect schools with pre-approved suppliers who can carry out access reviews, helping ensure systems are aligned with DfE and NCSC best practice.

3. Confirm backups and disaster recovery readiness

No backup is truly complete unless it’s been tested. Before the summer, schools should double-check that data is fully backed up and that recovery processes are working as expected.

Actions to take now:

• Perform a complete backup of critical data.

• Store backups securely offsite or in encrypted cloud environments.

• Test restoration processes to ensure data is recoverable and accessible.

Our framework includes suppliers offering education-specific backup and disaster recovery services — giving schools peace of mind that critical data is protected, even during long closures.

4. Update staff and student cyber awareness

If devices will be taken off-site over the break, it’s good practice to issue reminders around safe use and potential risks.

Actions to take now:

• Share short digital safety briefings with staff and students.

• Highlight common phishing threats and secure device usage offsite.

• Schedule INSET training for September with a focus on the latest cyber threats.

Everything ICT provides easy access to flexible, affordable cyber awareness training, ensuring staff and students are better prepared ahead of the new term.

5. Review policies ready for the new academic year

While the summer break allows breathing space, key policy reviews should begin now so that updates are ready for September.

Policies to review this month:

• Acceptable use and data protection policies.

• BYOD (Bring Your Own Device) and remote learning policies.

• Incident response and breach reporting procedures.

Through our framework, schools can engage with policy experts familiar with education-sector requirements, ensuring documentation is compliant and tailored to your school’s environment.

"Awesome from start to finish, couldn't fault them in anyway and certainly the best we have ever dealt with. Very pleased with the speed of delivery and the communication."

Matthew D - Southbrook School

Supporting school cybersecurity through the summer and beyond

By acting now, schools can prevent avoidable incidents, reduce the risk of cyber threats over the summer, and ensure systems are secure and ready for the new term.

Everything ICT’s DfE-approved framework offers schools a straightforward, compliant way to access trusted cybersecurity services, IT support, and training — all tailored to the needs of the education sector.

Get in touch to find out how we can support your school.