Over 10,000 schools have moved from legacy, server-based MIS systems to the cloud. And, according to the latest DfE census data, 3 out of 4 schools choose Arbor MIS. But why are so many schools switching now?
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1. Schools are realising the real potential of MIS
Cloud-based MIS systems are no longer just pupil databases – they can help with everything from planning interventions, tracking attendance patterns and monitoring behaviour, to booking parents evenings and paying for meals.
In busy Primary Schools where staff wear many hats, we know how important it is that everyone has the right tools for their roles. We’ve designed Arbor with features tailored to office staff, teachers and SLT – so you can work together in one, shared system.
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2. With most contracts up for renewal, the time is right!
But why have so many Primary Schools chosen to move MIS over the past year or are looking to move now?
Most SIMS contracts are ending in 2025 or 2026, so lots of schools are starting to research different providers now.
It might seem quite early to start looking at your options, but there are lots of reasons we would recommend beginning your research as soon as possible:
- SIMS contracts for most UK schools will be ending at the same time. Opening conversations with different MIS suppliers now will mean you will have more choice over your preferred migration and onboarding slots
- Moving to a cloud MIS saves time and money – so why wait?
It’s important to take the time to find the best MIS for your school. Starting now means you won’t rush the process.
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3. Consolidating systems = saving money
Most cloud-based MIS systems give you the choice to bring many of the third-party apps you use for things like comms, assessments and payments under one roof. That means you can save money when you move! In our recent report, we found that, on average, most schools save up to £5000 a year by moving to Arbor.
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4. Greater flexibility for all your staff
With a cloud-based MIS, you’ll be able to access key pupil, parent and staff information from any device with a browser. Give staff the flexibility to work remotely, or have access to key information when on the playground or moving around the classroom.
Plus, it means no more patches or waiting around for time-consuming updates. At Arbor, we update our MIS fortnightly, based on feedback from our schools.
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5. Reduce admin, save time and improve staff wellbeing
As well as saving on costs, an MIS can and should save your school staff time. By empowering everyone with direct access to the tools and information they need, you can break bottlenecks, let staff be self-sufficient and rely on your MIS to do the heavy lifting when it comes to administrative tasks. This means your staff get the time back to focus on what matters most.
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If you know that now is the right #TimeToSwitch for your school, but aren’t sure where to start, download our free, step-by-step guide here.
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