Schools across Lancashire, UK are facing significant disruptions following a ransomware cyber attack that targeted the Fylde Coast Academy Trust. This malicious attack has severely affected the trust’s IT infrastructure, rendering most computer systems inaccessible across all ten academies, including notable institutions such as Aspire High School and Unity Academy. Dean Logan, the CEO of the trust, confirmed that the attack has forced schools to revert to non-IT-based processes, highlighting the immediate impact on educational operations.
The specifics of the ransomware attack, including whether it was aimed at demanding a ransom, remain unclear. However, Logan noted that the situation is evolving and that it will take several days to fully assess the extent of the damage and the necessary recovery steps. In the meantime, affected schools have experienced impaired phone lines and limited access to essential services, significantly hindering communication with parents and guardians.
Fortunately, the trust received prompt assistance from the Department of Education and a specialized cybersecurity team within hours of the attack. Logan has urged parents to limit contact to essential matters as the schools navigate this crisis. He indicated that efforts are underway to restore key services, with expectations that some systems will be operational again by next week, although a complete recovery may take weeks to ensure that the ransomware is thoroughly removed.
Logan expressed gratitude for the community’s support during this challenging time, emphasizing the resilience demonstrated by staff, students, and families. Drawing on the skills and knowledge acquired during the COVID-19 pandemic, he noted that the trust is committed to maintaining high-quality education and care for students as they work to overcome the challenges posed by this cyber attack. The collaborative efforts from local authorities and the school community have been instrumental in addressing the immediate impacts of the situation.
