Connect the Classroom : DfE Connectivity Funding
The DfE’s Connect the Classroom (CtC) scheme is a UK government-funded initiative to upgrade the digital infrastructure in eligible schools across England.
The scheme is designed to narrow the “Digital Divide” by ensuring schools have modern, reliable, and secure high-speed Wi-Fi and network connectivity.
We’ve been involved in upgrading the fixed and wireless network connectivity for a cohort of academies and schools across the South East of England.
Successfully delivering network upgrades for at least 50 schools under the Connect the Classroom scheme, providing them with secure, fast, and dependable network access to support modern teaching and learning.
How can I check if my school is eligible for funding?
If your school is currently receiving targeted intervention through the Regional Improvement for Standards and Excellence (RISE) programme, you will be eligible for the Connect the Classroom funding.
The Department for Education (DfE) will contact your school directly if you are eligible. Once confirmed, you will receive funding if your current Wi-Fi network falls short of their standards.
What are the benefits?
An electrical survey is a comprehensive inspection and evaluation of a business’s electrical systems. This process is essential for ensuring the safety, compliance, and efficiency of your electrical infrastructure.
The survey assesses everything from wiring and circuit boards to power distribution and grounding. It identifies potential hazards, such as faulty wiring or overloaded circuits, and pinpoints areas for improvement. A detailed report is provided, highlighting any issues and recommending solutions to bring the system up to the latest safety standards.
This service is crucial for protecting your business from electrical fires, equipment damage, and downtime, while also ensuring you meet all legal and insurance requirements. It’s a proactive step to guarantee your technology has a reliable and secure power foundation.
Fully funded upgrades to a school’s wireless network, typically installing next-generation equipment like Wi-Fi 6 access points and network switches, along with new cabling where necessary.
What are the DfE Wi-Fi Connectivity Standards?
The funding is designed to help schools meet these key requirements:
Latest Technology: Your wireless network must use the most current standard approved by the Wi-Fi Alliance (e.g., Wi-Fi 6).
Full Coverage: You need a strong, functional signal throughout all school buildings and in external areas where it’s needed.
Central Management: The network solution should allow for central management, making it easier to control and maintain.
Enhanced Security: Your network must have security features in place to prevent any unauthorized access.
Why should I partner with NCS Technology?
NCS Technology provides a complete solution that handles the entire project from start to finish. This includes:
Assessment and Planning: We will conduct a full site survey to understand your school’s unique needs and ensure the proposed solution meets the DfE’s standards.
DFE-Compliant Upgrades: We will upgrade your Wi-Fi infrastructure to meet the DfE’s specific requirements, including the latest wireless standards (Wi-Fi 6), full-site coverage, central network management, and robust security features.
Project Management: We will manage the entire process, including the physical installation of new access points and fibre cabling.
Ongoing Support: We can provide continued support and aftercare to ensure the new network remains reliable and secure.
How long will the installation take?
With over 38 years of experience and a team of NICEIC-accredited electricians, we’ve successfully installed hundreds of school networks. Our accredited, DBS Enhanced-checked engineers are experts at what they do, ensuring every project is completed with minimal disruption, on time, and within budget.