Connect the Classroom – New Funding

£25m in DfE Grants for WiFi and Network upgrades 2025-2026

The government has announced an extension to its Connect the Classroom programme, with an additional £25 million allocated to help selected schools upgrade their wireless networks in 2025-26.

This funding forms part of the wider Narrowing the Digital Divide programme, aiming to ensure that everyone in schools has access to the benefits of technology — a critical foundation for modern teaching and learning.

If your school receives a letter from the Department for Education (DfE) confirming eligibility, you’ll be invited to apply for fully funded upgrades to your wireless infrastructure.

Is your school also eligible for the Fibre Upgrade Funding? Click here to see how we can help.

We’re here to help you take full advantage of the opportunity. Contact us today on 0345 222 0 666 to find out more or fill out the form opposite.

 


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What Does the Funding Cover?

Connect the Classroom funding enables schools to upgrade:

  • Wireless access points to the latest Wi-Fi standards
  • Network switches to support modern bandwidth needs
  • Full-site Wi-Fi coverage
  • Centrally managed network controls for easier administration
  • Security features to protect against unauthorised access

 
All upgrades must meet DfE technical specifications — and that’s where we come in.

Why Partner with Advantex?

We’ve worked with schools of all sizes across the UK and understand the demands placed on leadership teams, IT managers, and Trusts.

  • Extensive experience with Connect the Classroom
  • End-to-end support — from network assessments to full installation
  • Cyber Essentials Plus certified
  • Deep understanding of DfE digital standards and application process
  • Proven delivery across primary, secondary, and multi-academy environments

 
We can assess your readiness, support your application, and provide a fully compliant solution tailored to your school’s needs.

Schools and Trusts We’ve Helped

“Advantex have completed Wi-Fi projects across a number of our schools, they are my absolute go to partner for this kind of project. They advised, designed and implemented a solution that ticked all of our required boxes.” – Mike Carnaffin, Head of IT, Advance Learning Partnership

“We have been impressed by Advantex’s added value Wi-Fi solution and how they have bought into the spirit of the ‘Connect the Classroom’ scheme. Our investment will deliver not only a great resource but also one of the best possible learning environments for teachers, pupils and support staff.” – Dan Brinton, deputy headteacher at Belmont Community School

See who we have helped

Infrastructure You Can Rely On

When it comes to upgrading your school’s wireless and switching infrastructure, reliability matters. That’s why we use globally recognised solutions partners, such as Cisco, HPE Aruba, trusted by thousands of schools and designed specifically for the challenges of modern education.

With faster speeds, stronger coverage, and simplified management, your new network will support effective teaching and learning while reducing the burden on your IT team.

We’ll handle the full design and installation, ensuring your school receives a fully DfE-compliant solution, delivered by certified engineers and backed by expert aftercare.

What are your next steps?

Once you’ve received your letter from the DfE, book a consultation and we will:

  • Carry out a site audit at your school.
  • Design a compliant solution with accredited installation and full project management.
  • Help complete the DfE funding forms.
  • Deliver expert after-care and ongoing support.

 
Start your funding process today. Fill in the form below and we’ll help your school secure a compliant solution under the Connect the Classroom programme.

Contact Advantex to get started

Either call us on 0345 222 0 666 or fill in your details on our contact form

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