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FUNDING FOR WI-FI UPGRADES

Eligible schools can now get direct financial support from the Department for Education to modernise their wireless networks. If this includes your school, Softcat is ideally placed to help make sure Connect the Classroom delivers the biggest positive impact on your learning environment and outcomes.

READY TO START? SO ARE WE

Already been contacted by the DfE about Connect the Classroom? Speak to your Softcat Account Manager and find out how we can support you with every step in your project, and help you achieve a great end result.

Download Connect the Classroom Customer Journey
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WHAT IS THE PURPOSE?

Schools increasingly use mobile digital devices as core educational tools. But many school networks simply weren’t designed to support such a large number of mobile devices, leading to poor user experiences for pupils and teachers.

Connect the Classroom will enable schools to put in place a fit-for-purpose wireless network solution that’s faster, more reliable, and meets the needs of digital learners and educators.

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WHO IS ELIGIBLE?

Identified from the 55 Education Investment Areas, the scheme focuses on all the schools in 24 priority areas and covers more than 2,700 schools.

Eligible schools will be contacted directly by the DfE, or via a responsible body (Local Authority, Trust, or Multi Academy Trust). Connect the Classroom will roll out in different areas over a three-year period. The scheme is already underway, so if you have yet to be contacted and your school is eligible, the DfE or your responsible body will be in touch.

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SIMPLIFYING PROCUREMENT

With its direct award capability, the KCS IT Hardware framework makes procurement quick and easy for Connect the Classroom eligible schools. Compliant with Public Contract Regulations 2015, the framework saves schools time and money.

In addition, KCS Procurement Services has already vetted the chosen suppliers through the tender evaluation process, giving schools peace of mind that Connect the Classroom will deliver full impact on their learning environments.

TALK TO US ABOUT CONNECT THE CLASSROOM

We know first-hand that school IT budgets are exceptionally tight, and we’ve got lots of know-how in squeezing every last bit of value from available funding. This way, we can help make sure your fast new network helps bring learning journeys to life for years to come.

 

We’re specialists in both Aruba and Cisco Meraki networking technologies. So we can provide wired and wireless assessment services, design services, resale, implementation services and managed services that are a perfect fit with your existing network environment and preferred technologies. All with the convenience of a single expert supplier.
 

Enrolment in the scheme is not automatic, so you will need to apply for Connect the Classroom funding if you are offered it. Softcat welcome the opportunity to support you in completing your application form. 

We welcome the opportunity to support you at every stage of your Connect the Classroom project.

 

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