Service update: Microsoft 365 global outage affecting schools

We are aware of an ongoing global Microsoft 365 service outage affecting several applications used by schools and trusts. We understand how disruptive this can be, particularly when these services support everyday teaching, communication and administration.

Which services are affected?

Microsoft has reported disruption affecting several Microsoft 365 services, including:

• Outlook and email: Users may experience difficulties accessing, sending or receiving emails.
• Microsoft 365 web applications: Browser-based versions of Word, Excel, PowerPoint and other Office applications may be unavailable or experience interruptions. Installed desktop applications should continue to function as normal, although some connected features may be affected.
• Microsoft Teams for Education: Some users may experience issues accessing or managing Class Assignments.

What should your school do?

As this is a Microsoft-wide service issue, restoration is being managed directly by Microsoft.

For now, we recommend:

• Using installed desktop Office applications where available.
• Avoiding repeated attempts to access affected services if they are unresponsive.
• Continuing to use unaffected systems and alternative communication arrangements where necessary.

There is currently no need to raise individual support tickets for the services listed above, as our team cannot directly resolve issues caused by Microsoft’s outage. However, our Service Desk remains available to support you with unrelated technical issues.

What happens next?

Our technical teams are closely monitoring the situation and Microsoft’s progress towards restoring services. We will provide a further update as more information becomes available and services begin returning to normal. Microsoft has also indicated that the disruption appears to be technical in nature, with no indication of malicious activity.

You can follow the latest updates directly through Microsoft’s Service Status page.

We appreciate your patience and understand the impact this disruption may have on your school day. Please be assured that we are keeping a close watch on developments and will continue to keep you informed.