4Matrix Cloud - Rollout (Updated 17/04/2026)

In this topic:
- Introducing 4Matrix Cloud
- Rollout and Development
- Key Features and Data Transfer
- How to Upgrade (Includes Booking Link)
- Upgrade Costs and Terms
- Licence Renewal Costs
- Choosing Not to Upgrade (Yet...)
- End of Life Plans for 4Matrix Desktop
- Getting Help
1. Introducing 4Matrix Cloud
Watch our latest 4-minute video overview of 4Matrix Cloud here: https://youtu.be/aExi0XbRiRg
4Matrix Cloud is our fully cloud-based, hosted platform that will replace both 4Matrix Desktop and Infinity during 2026.
Designed for modern serverless schools, it delivers a complete analytics solution accessible on PC, Mac, and tablets - offering greater flexibility, improved performance, and continuous feature development.
2. Rollout & Development Progress
- More than 400 schools are actively using 4Matrix Cloud (as at March 2026)
- All ongoing development is now focused on the 4Matrix Cloud and 4Matrix Fusion platforms
- All new features will be released exclusively to 4Matrix Cloud
3. Key Features and Data Transfer
4Matrix Cloud includes most of the key features from Desktop, and introduces a wide range of enhancements, including:
- Fully cloud-based: No installations, no local servers, and no version updates for schools to manage
- MIS integration: Easily import data from Arbor, Bromcom, and SIMS
- Integrated photos: View pupil images within tools, with photo-based reports
- DfE-aligned qualification configurations: Pre-set grades, points, and KPI handling (e.g. Progress 8)
- GIAP import: Supports KS2 Scaled Scores and KS4 APS for KS4 and KS5 progress measures
- Secure access: Single Sign-On (Microsoft & Google) with optional two-factor authentication
- Multi-tab browsing: Work across multiple views simultaneously
- Quick Links: Fast, text-based access to key figures and tools
- Pastoral data support (Phase 1): Up to four customisable fields (e.g. ATL, behaviour) with built-in analysis
- KS3 grading (Phase 1): Customisable grading with analysis in Results Overview and Course Summary
Data can be transferred quickly and easily from 4Matrix Desktop to Cloud:
- Export data from the Desktop Results Overview tool, including UPNs and contextual data
- Import via the spreadsheet import feature in 4Matrix Cloud
4. How to Upgrade
Schools can *book their free upgrade* by signing up for and attending a live onboarding webinar this summer term. Please read the information below before booking your upgrade.
- You will receive access to your 4Matrix Cloud site the day before your selected onboarding date.
- On your onboarding date you will attend a live onboarding session, covering login, system navigation, and key administrative tasks such as data imports.
- A self-onboarding option is also available for schools that prefer to get started independently, supported by pre-recorded training and documentation. To request this option, simply log a support ticket and we will provide further details.
There is no cost to existing 4Matrix customers upgrading from Desktop to Cloud during their current licence period. This applies to upgrades taking place up to and including 31st August 2026. Renewal dates are unaffected; please see Upgrade Costs and Terms, below.
Multi-Academy Trusts (MATs)
MATs can contact us if they’d like to ensure all their schools onboard on the same wave.
5. Upgrade Costs & Terms
There is no cost to existing 4Matrix customers upgrading from 4Matrix Desktop to 4Matrix Cloud during their current licence period.
- Your existing Desktop licence will transfer to 4Matrix Cloud; your renewal date will stay the same
- No additional charges until your renewal is due
- Free upgrade offer applies to upgrades taking place up to and including 31st August 2026
- Upgrades after 31st August 2026 may incur a surcharge, to be confirmed
- By proceeding with the upgrade to 4Matrix Cloud, you agree to the applicable Terms and Conditions and Data Processing Agreement, available here:
- Terms and Conditions, which will supersede and replace the terms governing your existing 4Matrix Desktop licence.
- 4Matrix Cloud DPA
6. Licence Renewal Costs
4Matrix Cloud uses a revised pricing structure based on the edition you select:
- KS3/4 Analytics
- KS3/4/5 Analytics
- KS5 Analytics only
As a hosted solution, 4Matrix Cloud has higher operating costs than the legacy Desktop version. However, we are committed to supporting existing customers by offering:
- Preferential pricing for current users
- Discounted rates compared to standard pricing at the point of renewal
What’s included in the cost
Your 4Matrix Cloud renewal cost also includes a 4Matrix Desktop licence at no additional charge. This allows you to continue using Desktop alongside Cloud during your transition. The cost also includes support and access to our free webinar training sessions.
Schools are free to decide when to discontinue their use of Desktop. However, please be aware that running both in parallel will require maintaining both systems. For further guidance, see the Choosing Not to Upgrade Yet and End of Life sections.
Summer Term 2026 Upgrade Pricing
If you upgrade to 4Matrix Cloud during Summer Term 2026, your renewal pricing will depend on your licence expiry date:
Renewal date on or before 31st August 2026
- All Editions: £1,395 + VAT
Renewal date on or after 1st September 2026 (up to and including 31/03/2027)
- KS3/4 Edition: £1,462.50 + VAT (standard price £1,625 + VAT; -10% discount)
- KS3/4/5 Edition: £1,736 + VAT (standard price £2,170 + VAT; -20% discount)
Multi-Academy Trusts
Schools within a MAT may be eligible for additional discounts where licences are aligned and invoiced collectively.
Renewal Process
Renewal notices are typically issued 30 days before your licence expiry date. Your confirmed renewal cost will be included in this notice.
Important Information
With the exception of the Summer Term 2026 upgrade offer outlined above, once you have upgraded to 4Matrix Cloud, renewals cannot be made at legacy 4Matrix Desktop pricing, in line with our Terms and Conditions.
7. Choosing Not to Upgrade (Yet)
While we plan to transition all schools in England during 2026, there is no immediate requirement to upgrade. However, please consider:
- The free upgrade offer may change from 1st September 2026 (confirmation to follow later in the summer term)
- Desktop and Infinity are no longer actively being developed, aside from essential national data updates
- Schools can continue using Desktop alongside Cloud during the transition period; upgrading does not affect immediate access to Desktop
- You will still need to run a server in school for 4Matrix Desktop
- Staff will miss out on the benefits of a cloud-based platform, including anytime, anywhere access to data analytics that supports flexible working
8. End-of-life plans for 4Matrix Desktop
- End-of-life plans for 4Matrix Desktop (and the web extension 4Matrix Infinity) are expected to be confirmed early 2027.
- Schools in Wales and overseas will be contacted separately at the point of renewal to outline the options available to them.
9. Getting Help
- If you have any questions about onboarding, features, or costs, please log a support ticket or contact us via email.
- If your school is using 4Matrix Cloud and requires access to the new help site or copies of our PDF mini-guides, please log a support ticket or contact us via email.
Article revised: 17/04/2026
