Following the cessation of IT services from Cheshire East, as a Trust we engaged Tel Group to take over the provision of IT support for Handforth Grange Primary School.

Initially, I naturally had reservations about the transition after such a long-standing relationship with our previous provider. However, the free onboarding and transitional period offered by Tel Group instilled real confidence for both the trust and school. Tel Group’s systems were fully in place before the agreement officially began, and the entire process was seamless with updates throughout the process.

The technical expertise provided—both via the remote helpdesk and through our dedicated onsite technician exceeded expectations. The IT strategy and roadmap laid out by our account manager has been invaluable, particularly in helping us to assess our current RAG analysis in alignment with DfE standards.

It’s clear to me that Tel Group are a company that truly value building strong relationships with their customers and always put their needs first. Their communication is consistently excellent, whether through regular ticket reviews or account management meetings that proactively address any issues or upcoming projects.

I would highly recommend Tel Group to any educational provider considering a new IT provider. I’m also more than happy to discuss our experience with anyone considering utilising their services

Sam Finch – Chief Finance & Operations Officer

I contacted Tel Group when we struggled to recruit an IT Network Manager. Over the past 12 months, we’ve worked closely with TEL to develop the support needed, and we’re very happy with both the in-house and remote teams.

We gain access to expertise beyond our school, while maintaining the same setup as before. We’re very happy with the result.

Andrea Barnes – School Business Manager

We couldn’t be happier with the IT support from Tel Group. Their team is innovative, supportive, and always available. Whether it’s a quick fix or a complex issue, they respond promptly and efficiently, ensuring minimal disruption.

What sets Tel Group apart is their realistic problem-solving—they don’t just offer temporary fixes but long-term solutions tailored to our needs and budget. We also appreciate their clear, jargon-free explanations, making IT accessible to everyone.

Our dedicated account manager provides proactive support, ensuring our systems run smoothly. The strong relationship we’ve built with the team makes us feel valued and supported.

We highly recommend Tel Group to any school seeking reliable, forward-thinking IT support—they’re more than a service; they’re a trusted partner.

Charlotte Purcell – Headteacher

Tel Group provide our IT support services across the schools within our Trust. This includes a full-time network manager, onsite IT technician, Trust manager and back up support.

Tel Group identified and resolved long-standing IT issues across the Trust, recommending and implementing cost-effective solutions. They diagnosed critical server failures, advised on remedies, and installed a new backup system and server. Additionally, they conducted DfE-funded Connect the Classroom audits for our schools and installed the approved equipment. They also guided schools on DfE and RPA compliance for monitoring, filtering, and cyber security to meet statutory requirements.

Tel Group provide an excellent service to our schools and Trust. We have built up a great professional partnership that provides us with technical advice, support and delivery.

We are delighted with the service they provide and I would recommend Tel Group without reservation.

Tracy Harrison – Deputy CEO

We engaged the services of Tel Group back in early 2021 for the installation of a new phone system across our federation. Following the success of this, we met with Joe to discuss rising costs in schools and the decision was made to switch our broadband and IT support over to them.

IT can be unpredictable, but Tel Group has significantly minimised issues with their swift responses, practical advice, and reliable support. Their dedication makes a real difference—long may it continue!

Gail Brealey – School Business Manager

IFtL Trust has greatly benefited from the broadband and cloud telephone solutions provided by Tel Group.

The service has been reliable and well-managed, with some of our schools also utilising the lockdown feature and emergency broadcast speakers for added safety. Communication has been excellent, and any issues have been addressed swiftly and professionally.

We appreciate their expertise and continued support in keeping our schools connected and secure.

Jason Smith – Head of Operations and Sustainability