A wireless network that meets the latest ratified standard, as specified by the Department for Education (DfE), is something that is aspirational for many schools but here’s why the DfE want you to have such a system.
- Access online resources: Schools rely on a vast array of online resources and tools for teaching and learning. Having a reliable Wi-Fi network enables students and teachers to access these resources from anywhere in the school, at any time.
- Encourage collaboration opportunities: Students and teachers can collaborate on projects and assignments more easily. They can share files and documents, conduct video conferences, and work together on group projects all in the same digital space.
- Provide flexibility in teaching and learning: Students can be exposed to a greater range of learning opportunities including more self-directed learning. Coursework and homework can also be completed on their own devices and where necessary at their own pace.
- Deliver accessibility: Helps ensure that all students have equal access to learning opportunities, regardless of their location or device.
- Increased capacity: Multiple lessons can use multiple online resources at the same time, rather than having to schedule in access.
- School Management: Wi-Fi capacity also has to accommodate staff and teachers as they retrieve student data, report and communicate to parents and access other tools needed in the day-to-day running of the school.
- Site Security: Access controls require stable and secure networks to prevent unauthorized access and implement security protocols to deliver a safe teaching environment.
- Future-proof learning environments: As technology evolves, schools need robust and reliable networks to take full advantage of new opportunities. By investing now, schools can ensure they are prepared for the future.
All of the above activity creates a huge strain on networks. Without secure, reliable and fast Wi-Fi networks many schools will be unable to cope with this demanding environment as it continues to evolve.
For schools struggling on old legacy networks, help is available. The Department for Education’s ‘Connect the Classroom‘ Programme provides a one-time grant to help schools future proof their switches and network to deliver high speed Wi-Fi 6 environments.
Schools meeting the criteria, can avail between £30,000 – £100,000+ to cover:
- Wireless access points
- Edge switches to service those access points
- Core switches if required
- Licensing to cover revenue costs for those products for the first 5 years as a minimum
- Installation, configuration and handover
Belmont Community School, Bishop Barrington Academy, Dene Academy, Durham Academy, New Brancepeth Primary Academy and Whitworth Academy are just some of the schools we have helped.
Check out our latest news releases and case study for more information.
If you’d like to find out how we can help your school: Contact us on 0333 130 1066 or click here to request a call back.
