Challenge

Education Partnership Trust (EPT), a multi-academy trust with nine schools, needed a unified, cloud-based telecoms solution to replace its outdated and fragmented systems. Each school had previously operated with separate telecom providers, resulting in communication silos and inefficient collaboration across the Trust. Their primary objective was clear: implement a modern, VoIP-based phone system that could be rolled out trust-wide – without relying on on-site hardware.

Solution

After assessing several providers, EPT chose Firstcom Europe for its outstanding customer service, dedicated support team, and cost-effective pricing.

Firstcom delivered a complete telecoms overhaul using:
• Leased lines and backup lines for secure, reliable connectivity
• Universe VoIP phone systems for scalable, cloud-based communication
• Universe mobile app for remote access and flexibility across devices

The system was designed for ease of use, scalability, and full integration across all schools in the Trust.
 

Outcome

The transition to Firstcom’s solution was seamless. The onboarding process was handled expertly, with engineers on-site ensuring each school was fully operational from day one. EPT’s Firstcom account manager, Laura Liptrott, played a pivotal role in coordinating the rollout across all sites.

Highlights of the implementation:
• Smooth installation and minimal disruption across nine schools
• On-site training for technical teams and support for all staff
• Highly positive feedback from end-users, praising the intuitive handsets and system functionality

Key Results:
• Significant cost savings across the Trust
• Improved collaboration between schools
• Increased reliability of the telecom infrastructure
• Efficient deployment even under tight deadlines for newly onboarded schools

“I’ve known Laura Liptrott (Account Manager) for nearly 12 years, and in that time, we’ve built a strong and trusted relationship. My connection with the wider engineering team has also grown significantly – they’re always just a phone call away. I know I can rely on them whenever I need support, and that kind of responsiveness and consistency means a lot.”

“I have complete confidence in Firstcom and wouldn’t hesitate to recommend them. Anyone can sell a phone system, but it’s the ongoing service and support that truly matter. Over the past 12 years, their aftercare has been nothing short of exceptional. That’s what sets them apart.” Talha Mulla, EPT