The telephone network is changing – is your school ready?

In our latest Q&A this month we were delighted to catch up with KEVIN GRAINGER, Managing Director of internet connectivity specialists Kelia, to find out more about the upcoming analogue telephone network switch-off, and what it means for schools.

Could you explain the PSTN switch-off in terms we can all understand?

I think so, yes. Remember back in 2012, when the TV service in the UK moved over to digital? It was done over a four year period, so plenty of notice. But despite that, on 24th October 2012, when all of the old analogue sets simply stopped working, there were still plenty of people who hadn’t prepared either making do without a TV, or planning an expensive trip to Currys for a new set!

A similar transformation is now underway with our phone systems. By 2025, the aging Public Switched Telephone Network (PSTN) will be phased out in favour of a modern, digital network known as Voice over Internet Protocol, or VoIP. And when I say aging, I mean in the Victorian sense – it’s really that old.

This change means moving away from the old copper wire technology to a more robust, fibre optic-based system that’s designed to handle today’s digital demands, effectively bringing our whole communication infrastructure into the 21st century.

Why is the UK opting to switch off the PSTN?

The main reason is that maintaining the old PSTN infrastructure is becoming increasingly unsustainable. It’s expensive and less efficient given modern technology’s demands and capabilities. The PSTN is limited to voice transmission, struggling with the high bandwidth requirements of today’s digital services like streaming and multi-user video conferencing.

Transitioning to VoIP will not only reduce costs but also enhance the quality and range of communication services available to us, supporting everything from high-definition video calls to complex, data driven applications.

What challenges might schools face during the PSTN switch-off?

The transition to VoIP does pose some challenges, primarily around ensuring that there’s no interruption in service. Schools will need to ensure their internet infrastructure can support VoIP technology. This involves assessing current bandwidth and in some cases, upgrading internet services. Training for staff on the new systems is also crucial to avoid disruptions.

And because VoIP depends fully on internet connectivity, it’s vital to have a resilient backup internet connection. That way, if you lose your internet because someone digs up the road (and your fibre line with it), you won’t lose all your phones at the same time.

What are the benefits of switching to VoIP for schools?

VoIP offers numerous advantages. Firstly, it provides significant flexibility and scalability, which can be particularly beneficial for growing schools or those with fluctuating needs. VoIP services include features like call forwarding, conferencing, and even integrating communications with educational tools and databases.

There’s also a noticeable cost efficiency with many providers (including us) offering inclusive packages for both landline and mobile calls. Another key benefit is the improvement in reliability and quality of service. Lastly, VoIP enables greater mobility, allowing staff to communicate effectively, irrespective of their location—this can be incredibly useful for schools with multiple sites or for teachers working on different devices.

What is the timeline for the PSTN switch-off in the UK?

The complete switch-off is scheduled for 2025, which means that all traditional landline services will cease and be replaced by VoIP services. While 2025 may seem distant, the deadline will approach quickly, and adequate preparation is essential to ensure a smooth transition that doesn’t cause any disruption.

How can schools best prepare for the transition to VoIP?

Preparation begins with understanding the current telecommunication setup and assessing needs versus capabilities. I’d recommend engaging with a VoIP provider early in the process to discuss your specific requirements. This engagement should include a detailed discussion about the available options, a clear outline of the transition process, and the support that will be provided throughout the move.

It’s important to remember that there are likely to be other systems besides the phones themselves that rely on an analogue telephone connection, things like burglar and fire alarms for example. These will also need to be incorporated into transition plans.

It’s also wise to review your current internet and telephone bills, as these will give your new provider the necessary details to tailor VoIP services to your school’s needs. It’s likely that there are cost savings to be had, particularly on things like calls to mobile numbers, so switching early could make a lot of sense.

Finally, ensure that the chosen provider offers comprehensive training for your staff and robust support for troubleshooting any issues post-transition.

Where can school leadership get more information to help them prepare?

We’ve put some free resources together on our web site (see: kelia.co.uk/toolkit) where we’ve collected links to relevant DfE guidelines, checklists on how to prepare and tons of other stuff to make the process as painless as possible. It’s a great place to start and we’re adding to it all the time. We can also offer free advice from our team over the phone on 03303 205080