Wi-Fi 6 is the latest wireless standard that delivers faster speeds, greater capacity, and improved efficiency especially in environments where many devices are connected at once. Upgrading your Wi-Fi network can help with connecting classrooms, students, and teachers more reliably, ensuring smoother access to digital learning tools, online resources, and collaborative platforms without interruptions or lag.

With more students and staff using digital devices, Wi-Fi 6 ensures a stronger, more stable connection. It improves the quality of online learning, speeds up downloads, and reduces buffering and connectivity issues, helping to Close the Digital Divide. 

Upgrading to a modern Wi-Fi 6 network supports more devices simultaneously, enabling seamless use of digital tools like Chromebooks, tablets, and interactive whiteboards. This directly supports connecting classrooms by allowing teachers and students to collaborate, learn, and teach without connectivity issues.

High-speed infrastructure includes up-to-date networking components such as Category 6A cabling, managed switches, and next-gen access points. It enables faster internet speeds, supports more devices, and ensures your school network is future-ready. 

The Department for Education is contacting eligible schools directly via email or post. If you haven’t heard anything yet, we can help you check your eligibility and guide you on the next steps. 

This scheme has previously run as Connect the Classroom. Schools which received funding from this will not be eligible for additional funding.

The DfE’s “Core 6” sets out the minimum standards your school’s network must meet by 2030. These include:

• Broadband Internet
• Wireless Networks
• Network Switches
• Digital Leadership
• Filtering and Monitoring
• Cyber Security

At Ninehundred Communications, we have worked with many schools in upgrading all of the above, our experts have a wealth of experience in the Core 6 and in implementing them to create a safer and more advanced learning environment.

You can find out more here, on the Department for Education’s website.

No. We work around your schedule and aim to complete installations outside of teaching hours or during school holidays, ensuring minimal impact on students and staff. 

We have deep experience working with schools and public sector funding. Our team handles everything from site surveys and bespoke proposals to installations and ongoing support with minimal disruption and maximum results. 

Yes. We offer ongoing technical support, network health checks, and remote assistance to ensure your upgraded Wi-Fi continues to perform at its best long after installation. 

We are focused on closing the digital divide in classrooms helping to boost children’s learning.

Although the eligibility criteria haven’t been officially released, schools that begin assessments and planning now will be in the best position to act fast when the scheme opens. At Ninehundred Communications, we’re already helping schools get ahead of the game with free site surveys and bid support.

While each school is different, the average time from eligibility confirmation to completed installation is typically 4–8 weeks, depending on funding approval timelines and your preferred schedule. 

Absolutely. We work closely with MATs to provide consistent, scalable infrastructure across all their sites, offering unified management and long-term cost savings. 

If you don’t qualify under the current DfE Connect the Classroom scheme, we can still provide a free assessment and offer cost-effective solutions tailored to your needs and budget. 

A typical upgrade includes high-speed Wi-Fi 6 access points, improved network coverage, security enhancements, centralised management tools, and long-term support. We tailor each solution to your school’s specific layout and needs to ensure it’s futureproof and fully DfE-compliant.

With over 45 years of experience and direct knowledge of DfE frameworks, we guide you through the entire upgrade process—from initial surveys to final installation. Our tailored solutions are designed specifically for education, helping you connect the classroom effectively and sustainably.