Trusted by Schools & Colleges
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Our Certifications
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How does the Connect the Classroom scheme work?
Eligibility
If your school is eligible for DfE Connect the Classroom funding, the DfE will contact you directly by email. Eligible schools can receive fully funded network upgrades, with funding tailored to the size and requirements of each project rather than a fixed grant amount.
Our team can help you understand the programme requirements and support you throughout the application and deployment process, drawing on our experience delivering fully managed network infrastructure and WiFi solutions for schools and multi-academy trusts.
Connect the Classroom proposal & design
Our engineers work closely with you to create a solution that matches your school's requirements and preferred vendor choice, while ensuring full compliance with the Connect the Classroom specification and budget allocation
- Tailored design
- Your vendor choice
- Maintain DfE compliance
Application Support
Redway provides practical support to help schools complete the Connect the Classroom application process with confidence.
We provide:
- Full site surveys to validate the design and support successful deployment
- A dedicated contact to help with DfE documentation
- A full network design tailored for DfE submission
- Full site survey
- Support with documentation
- Full CtC network design
Funding & Procurement
Once your application has been approved, you can purchase the order directly or through the approved framework, EverythingICT. Depending on the school's purchasing requirements.
- Direct purchase option
- Framework Option (EverythingICT)
Installation
Our in-house team of specialised network engineers deliver the project from installation through to testing and handover.
This includes:
- Project delivery
- Network testing
- Handover & training
- Post-install support
We make sure your school has the support needed to get the most from its new network.
Not Eligible for Connect the Classroom Funding?
Not every school will qualify for Connect the Classroom funding, but that does not mean you cannot improve your network. If your school is not eligible, our team can still help you explore alternative options for upgrading your WiFi and IT infrastructure.
What is Connect the Classroom ?
Classroom WiFi Upgrades Through Connect the Classroom scheme
The DfE Connect the Classroom scheme is a Department for Education (DfE) programme designed to improve digital infrastructure in schools across England. The scheme provides eligible schools with upgraded wireless networks, improved internet connectivity, and enhanced safeguarding measures to support teaching, learning, and school operations. Its primary aim is to ensure that schools have reliable, secure, and high-capacity networking systems capable of supporting modern educational technology and increasing digital demands.
Through the programme, the DfE assesses participating schools to identify areas where network infrastructure requires improvement. Schools that meet the eligibility criteria may receive funded upgrades, including new wireless access points, network switches, structured cabling, and broadband improvements where required. The programme also helps schools implement cyber security best practices, ensuring networks are resilient against threats and compliant with government standards.
The scheme forms part of the DfE’s wider commitment to improving educational outcomes, particularly in Education Investment Areas (EIAs), and supports schools engaged with the Regional Improvement for Standards and Excellence (RISE) programme. By providing robust and secure connectivity, Connect the Classroom enables greater use of cloud-based services, digital learning resources, and educational applications, helping create a dependable digital environment for pupils, teachers, and school staff across participating schools nationwide.
Funding can be used to improve key areas such as:
- Coverage: Consistent WiFi across classrooms and shared spaces
- Capacity: Supporting high device usage without performance issues
- Access Points: Upgrading or installing modern hardware for better speed and reliability
These improvements create a more stable network to support digital learning and future demands.
For more information, visit our education WiFi Services
See Why Schools Trust Redway Networks
1
Chorus Education Trust
“Thanks to DfE’s Connect the Classroom Programme, we secured funding to support this vital initiative and we were recommended to Redway Networks who designed and installed high-performance, upgraded networks for two of our schools.”
Richard Clough, IT Director, Chorus Education Trust
2
Dinnington High School
“Following a grant through DfE’s Connect the Classroom programme we chose Redway Networks to replace our outdated IT infrastructure at Dinnington School with a high-quality cloud-managed network and resilient fibre-optic communications backbone. Redway Networks delivered a great service and we now have the foundation for future-ready learning.”
Richard Wheatcroft, CFO & Principal Business Manager, LEAP Education Trust
3
Leverhulme Education Trust
“Having secured a DfE grant through the Connect the Classroom scheme, I reached out to Redway Networks to conduct technical WiFi surveys that demonstrated the performance gaps with our legacy networks and enabled us to secure funding for the design and installation of new high-performance WLANS which have been transformative.”
Richard Pycroft, ICT Manager, Leverhulme Education Trust
4
Anthem Schools Trust
“One of the biggest impacts Redway Networks had was helping us with our Connect the Classroom project at Deepings School. CtC is such a time-consuming task for everyone within the trust, so having the support from Redway Networks was extremely beneficial.”
Ross Weeks, Head of IT & Digital Strategy, Anthem Schools Trust
Connect The Classroom
Frequently Asked Questions
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What schools are eligible for Connect the Classroom?
Schools currently receiving targeted intervention through the Regional Improvement for Standards and Excellence (RISE) programme are eligible for Connect the Classroom funding.
Eligible schools will be contacted directly by the Department for Education (DfE) and will receive funding if they do not meet the required Wi-Fi connectivity standards.
See how other schools have successfully upgraded their infrastructure through our Connect the Classroom case studies.
These standards include:
- Using the latest wireless network standard approved by the Wi-Fi Alliance
- Having a fully functional wireless signal throughout all school or college buildings, and externally where required
- Having a centrally managed wireless network solution
- Installing security features to prevent unauthorised access
What are the benefits of updating your school's network?
Benefits of updating your school’s network include:
- Improved reliability and performance: Faster, more stable Wi-Fi reduces dropouts and buffering, keeping lessons running smoothly without disruption.
- Better support for digital learning: A modern network can handle multiple devices, online platforms, and cloud-based tools to support digital learning.
- Enhanced safeguarding and security: Updated networks include stronger security controls to protect pupil data and prevent unauthorised access.
- Future-proofing your school: Modern infrastructure is better equipped to support new technologies, software updates, and growing digital demands.
- Greater coverage: Consistent connectivity throughout classrooms, halls, and outdoor learning areas.
How does Redway make it easy to access Connect the Classroom funding?
Redway Networks supports schools at every stage of the DfE Connect the Classroom journey. We help confirm eligibility, design a compliant solution, and deliver reliable WiFi and network upgrades—removing complexity and ensuring a smooth, stress-free experience.
Schools that receive a Connect the Classroom funding invitation can benefit from expert guidance, project management, and deployment support. See how other schools have successfully upgraded their infrastructure through our Connect the Classroom case studies.
We offer a range of school and education WiFi solutions. You can also read our helpful blogs for more information:
What is Upgraded?
The scheme provides fully funded upgrades to wireless access points (e.g., Wi-Fi 6), network switches, and cabling.
How do you apply?
Schools cannot directly apply on a whim; the DfE contacts eligible schools directly. Once contacted, schools obtain quotes from approved IT suppliers for a site survey and installation.
How do I know if my school qualifies?
You will be notified directly by the Department for Education by email
Can Multi-Academy Trusts benefit from the scheme?
Yes, multi-academy trusts (MATs) can highly benefit from the Connect the Classroom (CtC) scheme. The Department for Education (DfE) program provides fully-funded grants to upgrade out-of-date wireless infrastructure—including Wi-Fi 6/7 access points and network switches
Will the new network support future technology and digital learning initiatives?
Yes. Connect the Classroom upgrades are designed to provide schools with a modern, scalable network infrastructure capable of supporting increased device usage, cloud-based learning platforms, interactive teaching tools and future digital transformation projects.
How long does a Connect the Classroom project take to complete?
Project timelines vary depending on the size of the school and the scope of the network upgrade. Once funding is confirmed, Redway Networks works closely with schools to plan and deliver installations. Wherever possible, work is planned around the school calendar, with installations often taking place outside teaching hours, during holidays, or in phased stages to minimise disruption to pupils and staff.