In February 2026, the UK Government confirmed a significant boost to the Connect the Classroom programme, announcing an additional £325 million to support the upgrade of school network infrastructure. This major investment is aimed at helping more schools modernise their Wi‑Fi environments, including improved switches, wireless access points and overall network performance.

Who Is Eligible?

Eligibility for Connect the Classroom is determined directly by the Department for Education (DfE). Schools may be selected if they meet one or more of the following criteria:

  • RISE Programme Schools: Those already receiving support through the Regional Improvement for Standards and Excellence (RISE) programme.
  • Schools Identified by the DfE: Schools whose current Wi‑Fi or network setup falls below the DfE’s required standards.
  • Schools in Education Investment Areas: Schools located in designated EIAs or Priority EIAs, sometimes depending on their most recent Ofsted rating.
  • Schools with Outdated Network Infrastructure: Those lacking modern Wi‑Fi technology, full coverage, central management, or adequate security controls.

Schools do not apply independently, the DfE contacts eligible schools directly with guidance on the next steps.

How Many Schools Could Benefit?

This latest round of funding is expected to reach far more schools than previous years. With the funding pot now around 50% larger, it is anticipated that up to 6,000 additional schools could be included.

Given the evolving standards and slight cost adjustments within the programme, there is potential for as many as 10,000 schools to receive support for upgrading their network infrastructure.

These estimates are based on earlier phases of the programme, which from 2021 to 2025 supported around 4,000 schools, alongside the uplift in funding from the previous £215 million allocation to the new £325 million figure.

What Else Is Included?

Beyond internal networks, the Government has also highlighted further investment in:

  • Digital connectivity for schools.
  • Support to ensure all schools can access fast, reliable gigabit broadband.
  • Ongoing work to reduce digital inequality across the education sector.

How We Can Support Your School?

As an experienced partner in delivering Connect the Classroom projects, we are here to help schools at every stage of the process, including:

  • Network audits and assessments
  • Project scoping and technical planning
  • Procurement guidance
  • Full implementation of wired and wireless solutions

If your school is considering a network upgrade or preparing for future funding opportunities, get in touch — our team is ready to support you.

Talk to us about Connect the Classroom

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