The Department for Education (DfE) is offering funding for schools in need of fast, reliable WiFi through its “Connect the Classroom” programme. It aims to eliminate the “Digital Divide” between schools that already have robust WiFi networks and the ability to use Edutech tools, and those that don’t, allowing previously underserved schools to enhance teaching and learning.
The DfE is investing in the future of our schools by allocating a substantial budget for these improvements and Advantex shares its belief that connected schools form the foundation that enables the achievers of tomorrow.
As an educator, schools aim to provide teachers and students with the infrastructure they need to make the most of the tech tools that are so important in today’s world and to contribute to the learning experience. However, not all schools have fit-for-purpose Wi-Fi infrastructure, hence the DfE’s decision to invest a total of £200 million in funding. Raising important questions such as, does your school qualify for funded high-speed WiFi? And what process would you navigate to secure it?
Advantex has a wealth of experience as a service provider under the Connect the Classroom scheme, having worked with many schools and the DfE on previous projects. With less than a year left for schools to secure their funding, we share all the important information that you need to know about the Connect the Classroom scheme.
How Connect the Classroom Works
After refining its programme in 2022, the DfE announced its plans to provide Connect the Classroom funding to around 3,500 schools. It adopted a phased approach, targeting 800 schools in the first year, and expanding its programme to 2,000 schools in 2023-2024. In the 2024 to 2025 phase of Connect the Classroom, the DfE aims to fund a further 800 schools that meet the criteria for eligibility.
Eligible schools receive invitations from the DfE. To take advantage of the opportunity, schools must respond, by registering their interest. Once they’ve done so, the DfE sends out detailed information, including procurement requirements and advice on supplier selection.
After completing your procurement process, the DfE evaluates it and reverts with information on how much funding your school can qualify for and the terms and conditions under which claims will be processed.
Once you have your Connect the Classroom DfE approval, your school and its service provider can go ahead with technology upgrades.
What are the Equipment Requirements for Connect the Classroom Funding?
Connect the Classroom is a forward-looking programme, investing in the future of our schools through technology, and aiming to give schools access to networks that can be effective for up to a decade. Requirements include 2.5 Gb capable APs, Wi-Fi 6, multi-gig access point on a Cat6a Structured cabling scheme and switches. To ensure that funded equipment meets its standards, proposals are evaluated by the DfE.
As experienced service providers, Advantex understands the specifications for equipment and will know which systems are compliant and which aren’t, making it easier for you to submit your procurement application and gain approval quickly. To sum up the outcomes they’re looking for, the DfE evaluates applications based on the following criteria:
- Use of network standards approved by the Wi-Fi Alliance
- Provision of a functional signal throughout school buildings
- A centrally managed network solution
- Effective security features
You can access full information on the DfE’s digital and technology requirements here.
Connect the Classroom Eligibility
The DfE has identified eligible schools based on whether they are in an education investment area or a priority investment area. Schools with systems falling short of DfE technology standards will receive assistance through the programme.
To make the rollout manageable, the DfE has phased its approach, contacting eligible schools. However, some schools may have missed their notifications since the email address from which some of the communications come may be flagged as spam. If you suspect that your school qualifies and may have missed its invitation, you should get in touch with the DfE as soon as possible.
Working Towards Connected Schools With Advantex
We have been involved with the Connect the Classroom programme from its inception, participating in the DfE’s initial pilot project. Advantex is able to help you through each step of the process so that your school can realise its full benefits with ease.
Application processes can seem overwhelming, but with Advantex to help you, your application for Connect the Classroom funding will be easy to navigate. From your perspective, it’s a straightforward process. When schools contact us for assistance, we send one of our education specialists to visit the site and perform an on-site audit. Thereafter, we can provide schools and colleges with all the documentation they need for a successful application.
Our Meraki Cisco Certified engineers design compliant, high-quality systems, and once your application is approved, our team of accredited installation professionals do the rest. Our track-record in service to educational institutions speaks for itself.
Talk to us about your Connect the Classroom funding application. Advantex is proud of its work as an enabler of schools hoping to offer their students all the advantages of a connected education. We build relationships, offering both internet connections and IT support. Contact us today and let’s work together towards a brighter future for all our children.
