Case Study: 3CX System & CRM Integration for SEN Trust Southend
Posted by Netmatters
30th October 2025
30th October 2025
Who Is The Client?
SEN Trust Southend is a strong multi-academy trust comprising several specialist schools, each focused on delivering high-quality education for pupils with a wide range of special educational needs.The Trust’s mission is to ensure that every child requiring specialist support receives the right resources, care, and learning environment to reach their full potential. With multiple schools under its umbrella, effective internal communication and streamlined systems are essential for day-to-day coordination and long-term operational success.
What Was The Problem?
The Trust’s existing phone systems presented several key issues:
- No Integration Capabilities: There was no support for Microsoft 365 or CRM integration, creating inefficiencies in communication and data access.
- Cost Challenges: Upgrading hardware entirely would be expensive, and maintaining outdated systems was not sustainable.
The Trust needed a solution that unified communications across all schools while supporting key integrations and reducing overall costs.
What Was Our Solution?
We deployed 4 x 3CX phone systems, one for each school, with the following enhancements:
- Bridged Systems: All systems were connected, enabling internal calls and extension visibility across all sites.
- Microsoft 365 Integration: Each phone system was configured to integrate with the Trust’s existing Microsoft 365 tools, streamlining workflows and enhancing user experience. CRM integration instructions were provided for future setup.
- Cost-Efficient Hardware Use: Existing handsets were reprovisioned, significantly reducing hardware expenses.
- Minimised Disruption: The project was completed during school holidays, to help minimise disruption.
What Was The Result?
The implementation delivered a future-ready communication system with key benefits:
- Modern, connected phone systems across all schools
- Full Microsoft 365 and future CRM integration
- Seamless internal communication across sites
- Reduced costs through handset reuse
- Completed with zero downtime during teaching hours
Client Testimonial
"Netmatters has provided wonderful service from sales to project implementation. During the demonstrations they went above and beyond to fully answer questions and explain elements that were proving difficult to understand, showing fantastic knowledge and patience.
Post-deployment, Netmatters did not leave us high and dry but followed up to assist with final queries, ensuring we were in a happy, comfortable state.
Our Multi Academy Trust has not once regretted the choice to work with Netmatters and I am fully confident there will be continued excellent service in the future."
Quote from our team:
“It was a pleasure for Netmatters to work with the SEN Trust on the successful implementation of their new phone system. The collaboration between both teams was smooth and productive, with clear communication and a shared commitment to achieving the best outcome for the Trust. Andy from the SEN Trust was a key point of contact, providing valuable input and support throughout the project. Overall, the partnership was a great example of teamwork and mutual dedication to improving communication solutions for the SEN Trust.”
By delivering a fully integrated 3CX solution, we helped SEN Trust modernise its communication systems—enhancing collaboration, improving efficiency, and ensuring the Trust is equipped for the future of digital telephony.
If your organisation faces similar challenges, contact us today to find out how we can help.
