Helping Eligible Schools Improve Wi-Fi Connectivity
The Department for Education’s Connect the Classroom programme is helping eligible schools improve Wi-Fi connectivity and network infrastructure. At Turn IT on, we help schools and trusts navigate the process with confidence. From funding guidance and planning through to delivery, support, and long-term digital strategy.
Reliable connectivity is no longer a ‘nice to have’. It underpins everything from classroom learning and safeguarding systems to cloud platforms, collaboration tools, and day-to-day operations.
We work alongside schools as a trusted education IT partner, helping reduce complexity, minimise workload, and create future-ready environments that support both staff and pupils.
What is Connect the Classroom?
Connect the Classroom is a government-funded programme designed to improve Wi-Fi connectivity in schools through upgraded wireless infrastructure and network improvements.
The programme forms part of the Department for Education’s wider commitment to narrowing the digital divide and supporting modern digital learning environments. We explore this more in our recent DfE report summary.
Eligible schools can receive funding to improve wireless coverage, increase reliability, strengthen network security, and ensure infrastructure can support modern teaching and learning technologies.
Improve Your Network
- Reliable Wi-Fi across school buildings
- Improved digital learning experiences
- Secure and centrally managed networks
- Infrastructure ready for future growth
Could your school be eligible?
The Department for Education contacts eligible schools directly where current connectivity falls below required standards.
Schools currently receiving targeted intervention through the regional improvement for standards and excellence (RISE) programme may be eligible for Connect the Classroom funding.
DfE standards include:
- Strong and reliable Wi-Fi coverage throughout the school
- Centrally managed wireless networking
- Modern wireless standards
- Secure network access and protection
What makes us different?
At Turn IT On, we understand schools because many of our people have worked in education themselves.
Our teams include former teachers, school IT professionals, and education specialists who understand the day-to-day realities schools face, balancing budgets, supporting staff confidence, managing safeguarding responsibilities, and delivering better outcomes for pupils.
That means we don’t just install technology. We help schools make confident, practical decisions that support teaching and learning long-term.
✅ Human-first support
Friendly, education-focused teams who work collaboratively with schools and trusts.
✅ Fully managed delivery
From planning and procurement support through to implementation and ongoing support.
✅ Digital transformation
We help schools think beyond connectivity, supporting cloud adoption, device strategies, cybersecurity, and future digital development.
✅ Reduced workload
Clear communication, project management, and expert guidance that reduces pressure on internal teams.
✅ Trust and MAT experience
Experienced in supporting both individual schools and wider trust-wide digital strategies.
What better connectivity means for schools
Strong digital foundations create better experiences for staff, pupils, and leadership teams alike.
More reliable teaching technology
Support classroom devices, cloud platforms, and digital learning without disruption.
Improved staff confidence
Give staff reliable systems they can trust day-to-day.
Better pupil experiences
Create smoother, more engaging learning environments supported by dependable technology.
Reduced technical frustrations
Spend less time dealing with connectivity issues and more time focused on learning.
Stronger security and management
Improve visibility, control, and protection across your network.
Ready for future growth
Build infrastructure that supports long-term digital transformation plans.
Learn about why this matters more than ever: Why Connectivity is the Foundation of Learning.
How we support your Connect the Classroom journey
Step 1 — Initial conversation 🫱
We’ll help you understand eligibility, funding guidance, and what the programme could mean for your school or trust.
Step 2 — Review & assessment 📊
Our team reviews your current infrastructure, coverage, and future requirements.
Step 3 — Planning & proposal ✏️
We develop practical recommendations aligned to DfE standards and your wider digital strategy.
Step 4 — Delivery & implementation 🔧
From project management to installation and testing, we manage the process collaboratively with your team.
Step 5 — Ongoing support 🧡
We continue supporting your school beyond implementation as part of your wider digital journey.
Read about how we supported better outcomes for this trust: Digital Transformation at The Mandeville School.
Speak to our team about Connect the Classroom
If your school or trust is exploring Connect the Classroom funding, we’d be happy to help you understand the next steps. Complete the form below and a member of our education technology team will be in touch.