The landline phone switch-off and what it means for schools and colleges
The UK’s phone network is undergoing a significant transformation. By January 2027, the Public Switched Telephone Network (PSTN) will be no more, meaning schools, businesses, and households that rely on traditional landlines must switch to digital alternatives like VoIP (Voice over Internet Protocol) handsets.
If your school still depends on landlines, now is the time to start planning your transition. This blog post will explain everything you need to know about the switch-off, why it’s happening, and how VoIP can future-proof your communication system.
What is the PSTN switch-off?
By January 2027, the old copper-based PSTN phone network will be shut down, and all landline services will be delivered through broadband connections instead. Schools that still use traditional landlines need to migrate to a VoIP system or risk losing phone connectivity.
Why is the PSTN being switched off?
The existing PSTN infrastructure is no longer fit for purpose in today’s digital world. Here’s why the UK is making the switch:
Aging infrastructure – The copper network is outdated, costly to maintain, and increasingly unreliable.
Better call quality – Digital voice services offer clearer audio and more stable connections.
Future-proofing – as the UK moves toward full-fibre broadband, VoIP aligns with the nation’s digital transformation strategy.
While the UK government plans to roll out full-fibre broadband to 85% of the country by the end of 2025, the PSTN switch-off will happen in January 2027, meaning schools must prepare now.
How will the PSTN switch-off affect your school?
Schools rely heavily on their phone systems for everyday operations, including:
Internal and external communication
Emergency calls
Parent-teacher communication
Coordination between departments and campuses
With the PSTN switch-off, any school that hasn’t upgraded to VoIP could face disruptions. Schools need a reliable communication system to ensure student safety, staff coordination, and uninterrupted operations.
What is VoIP, and how does it work?
VoIP is the modern alternative to traditional landlines. Instead of using copper phone lines, VoIP converts voice signals into digital data and transmits them over the internet.
If you’ve ever used FaceTime, Skype, or WhatsApp calls, you’ve already experienced VoIP in action. For schools, VoIP works through specialised handsets that connect to broadband rather than traditional phone lines.
How schools benefit from switching to VoIP
Cost savings
VoIP systems reduce call costs and eliminate the need for expensive maintenance of outdated phone lines.
Scalability
Whether your school has a single building or multiple campuses, VoIP allows you to add new lines and handsets easily.
Advanced features
With VoIP, schools can benefit from:
Call forwarding to mobile devices
Voicemail-to-email functionality
Multi-way calling and video conferencing
Auto-attendant for directing calls to the right person
Flexibility and remote access
With VoIP, staff members can make and receive calls from anywhere with an internet connection, allowing for more seamless communication.
Enhanced security and emergency support
VoIP provides encrypted calls for added security and allows schools to reroute calls during emergencies to ensure uninterrupted communication.
Reliable connectivity
VoIP offers crystal-clear call quality and is far more resilient than copper-based landlines, reducing downtime and disruptions.
How to prepare for the PSTN switch-off
Audit your current system – Identify all landline-dependent communication systems in your school. Besides the telephone system, these could include entry systems, alarms and payment terminals.
Check your internet connection – Ensure your broadband can support VoIP for uninterrupted voice services.
Choose a VoIP provider – Work with a trusted provider that understands school communication needs.
Upgrade your handsets – Invest in VoIP-compatible phones for your staff and admin offices.
Train your staff – Educate teachers and administrative personnel on how to use VoIP features effectively.
The good news? Switching to VoIP is simple—most VoIP handsets only require plugging into your router or a designated VoIP socket.
In most cases, schools can keep their existing phone numbers when switching to VoIP. However, if you change providers or relocate at a later date, you may need to check with your VoIP provider about number portability.
Important deadlines for the PSTN switch-off
December 2025 – Schools may receive as little as 90 days' notice to migrate to an all-IP solution.
January 2027 – Final shutdown of PSTN and ISDN services. After this date, only VoIP and digital phone solutions will be available.
Next steps for changing to a VoIP phone system
Don’t wait too long. Contact us today to discuss options for your school or trust and start making the switch.
About the author: Amos is the Product Manager for VoIP at RM, with the primary objective of driving voice and safe-guarding solutions in the education sector.