Following confirmation that the not-for-profit EMPSN network will cease trading on 31st October 2026, schools and trusts across the East Midlands are now reviewing their broadband and safeguarding provision.
Since this update was first shared, a number of schools have already begun that process. Wave9 is currently supporting transitions across the region and is working with Derbyshire County Council’s Education Data Hub to assist schools planning a move away from EMPSN.
Wave9 already supports over 1000 schools nationally – including more than 200 across the East Midlands – and is continuing to help schools plan safe, compliant transitions ahead of the 2026 deadline.
We deliver DfE-compliant broadband, firewall, web-filtering and monitoring services, managed end-to-end by a named project manager. Our approach keeps both circuits running in parallel during migration, ensuring no downtime and minimal disruption. Every installation follows the same principles: resilience, safeguarding continuity and clear communication.
Derbyshire schools – working with the Education Data Hub
Wave9 is working with Derbyshire County Council’s Education Data Hub as one of a small number of providers supporting schools through the transition away from EMPSN.
For schools in Derbyshire, this provides a clearer local route to review current services, understand available options, and plan migration timelines ahead of the October 2026 deadline.
Wave 9 is 100% focused on education. Over 98% of our customers renew at the end of their initial term, reflecting our emphasis on service quality and support that schools can rely on.
If you’re an East Midlands school, academy or trust affected by the EMPSN closure or simply reviewing your connectivity for 2026 – we’d be pleased to outline your options. References from local schools are available on request.
Contact us to discuss timelines or arrange a readiness check.