Moving from Windows to Apple computers can be a daunting prospect. Especially if the existing systems have been in place for a long time.
But positive change is necessary for progress and in many education settings, Apple Macs can deliver the best experience for both teachers and students.
When The Henley College decided it was time for a change, they asked Counterpoint to help them install technology equipment fit for both the present and the future.
The Challenge
Improved reliability and functionality
The Henley College had been using Windows computers for many years but staff were not happy with the performance for many reasons.
They had encountered many reliability and stability problems, as well as issues with viruses and malware. They also found the lifespan of Windows computers to be fairly short, meaning they had to be replaced regularly at a significant cost.
As students were doing more work with creative programs such as Adobe and Ableton, they needed reliable computers that would also fit in with the modern aesthetic of the college campus. With Apple computers being the industry standard for creatives, combined with their sleek design, ease of use, and overall reliability, they wanted to make a complete transition.
The Solution
Multiple fully-equipped Mac suites with networking and ongoing support
The Henley College came to Counterpoint as they needed experts who could design and install brand new Apple Mac suites for them, as well as provide a smooth transition from their older equipment and ongoing support.
After analysing the college’s requirements, we delivered a media suite, photography suite, and music suite, with 100 iMacs and Mac Minis across the campus. We also installed networking for all of the suites so that data could be easily transferred to production or recording studios when needed.
As part of our ongoing contract with the college, we provide both remote and onsite Apple Mac IT support to ensure that all the equipment is functioning as expected, and staff can be fully focused on teaching.
The Impact
A digital hub fit for the future
Since switching to Apple computers, the staff and students at The Henley College have seen a huge positive impact on teaching and learning. In fact, 47% of A-Level photography students achieved an A* after the introduction of the new facility.
Photography teacher George Bull said, “With this equipment it allows us to push students above and beyond which is really helpful for them and their future opportunities. Counterpoint not only provided the necessary software and hardware but also gave us guidance on the most effective way to use it.”
Downtime has been minimal as the new suites are so reliable and any issues that have been experienced have been resolved swiftly. The new computers have also proved much more able to cope with the demands of the college, as Media teacher Adam Jones explained - “The course is very technology heavy and we found that the new Macs deal with processing lots of video much better.”
Principal Satwant Deol has been thrilled with the results and is confident the new suites will give students the best opportunities for success. “We want to make sure that our students have facilities that will prepare them for future jobs as well as current jobs,” she said. “One of our visions is to become a digital hub and now we have the facilities to achieve that.”
Now the students at The Henley College have the hardware to match their ambitions, the sky will be the limit for what they can achieve both in their studies and in their future careers.
Get in touch if your school is looking for Apple Mac IT support. Counterpoint can support your next project or upgrade.