A complete DfE-standard network refresh, configured and documented
Every Connect the Classroom delivery follows the same disciplined scope: switching, wireless, secure management, and a full documentation handover, designed to the Department for Education (DfE) standards and to the realities of the building.
Structured cabling
The scheme funds the copper cabling to the access points, and we install it as Category 6A with fibre at a minimum of 16-core OM4 multimode, the specifications the DfE requires. Every run is tested and certified, and the as-built records are part of your documented handover. Where a school wants wider cabling work while we are on site, new data outlets, containment, or cabinet works beyond the funded scope, we deliver that alongside at the school's own cost, clearly separated in the quotation.
Switching
New edge switching serving the access points, with Power over Ethernet, multi-gig ports to the APs, and a manufacturer warranty and support arrangement of at least five years, as the DfE requires. Redundant fibre uplinks, VLANs and IP subnets, static routing, and spanning tree for a resilient, loop-free network. Where the wider estate needs switching beyond what the grant funds, we design and price that separately so the funded bid stays clean.
Wireless
Access points at Wi-Fi 7, the minimum standard for the 2026 programme, installed to a wireless heat-map design so coverage and capacity match how the building is actually used. SSIDs, radio and service settings, and access-control roles configured for staff, pupils, and guests.
Management and security
Central management of the wireless network, and secure network access with 802.1X authentication through Microsoft Network Policy Server (NPS) and RADIUS. Firewall requirements defined, and DHCP, DNS, and NTP configured correctly.
Documentation and handover
A full as-built Post Install Document: wireless heatmaps, access-point location plans, network topology, IP and virtual LAN (VLAN) schedules, and an asset register, so the school and its IT team know exactly what was installed and how it is configured.
What the grant funds, and what it does not
Connect the Classroom is a Wi-Fi upgrade programme. The grant funds school-wide access points, the edge switches that serve them, the copper cabling to those access points, fibre connections, replacement cabinets, and full installation, configuration, and handover. A school should encounter no costs of its own for the funded scope.
The DfE is explicit about what sits outside the grant: switching and cabling not associated with the Wi-Fi, general data points, uninterruptible power supply (UPS) units, end user devices, telephony, servers, CCTV, civil works, and ongoing support or managed services. Bids that include out-of-scope items are rejected, which costs the school time.
Want more done while we are on site?
Many schools use the visit to complete wider work at their own cost: additional data points, core switching, or cabinet tidy-ups. We scope and price that separately from the funded bid, so the DfE submission stays clean and the school still gets one installation.
Designed to the DfE standards
The design and build follow the DfE wireless and network switching standards, so the upgrade meets the requirements the funding is intended to deliver. We specify HPE Aruba, Ubiquiti UniFi, or Cisco Meraki to fit the school, and the solution meets the standards in every case. Where a school has existing systems to integrate, we plan the VLANs, addressing, and firewall rules to bring them onto the new network cleanly.
Speak with our experts
Tell us about your school, trust, or programme. We will route you to the right team and respond promptly.