The UK Government has officially extended the Connect the Classroom (CtC) programme into 2025, unlocking another round of fully funded WiFi infrastructure upgrades for eligible schools and Multi-Academy Trusts (MATs).
If your school is part of the DfE’s RISE programme or has been identified as having outdated or underperforming digital infrastructure, this is your opportunity to modernise your connectivity at zero cost to your budget.
At Simpli-Fi, we specialise in delivering education-grade school WiFi and network solutions that are fully compliant with DfE standards—and we can help guide your school or trust through every step of the process.
What is Connect the Classroom?
Connect the Classroom is a Department for Education (DfE) initiative offering 100% funded upgrades to internal network infrastructure. The goal is to ensure all pupils have access to fast, secure, and reliable connectivity that supports digital learning and modern teaching environments.
As of 2025, over 3,700 schools and 1.3 million pupils have benefited. A new £25 million funding extension was announced to support additional schools during the 2025-26 financial year.
Eligible schools receive full funding to upgrade their digital infrastructure, including:
All solutions must meet DfE connectivity standards for performance, security, and coverage.
Unlike previous phases based on regional criteria (e.g. Education Investment Areas), the 2025 extension focuses on need-based eligibility.
You may qualify if your school:
The DfE is directly contacting eligible schools with an invitation to participate. Schools cannot apply unprompted but can speak to their local authority or trust to check status. (Details from Schools Week)
Digital learning is here to stay. With schools rolling out Windows 11, adopting cloud-based tools like Microsoft 365, and deploying 1:1 devices, older networks simply can’t keep up.
Benefits of upgrading include:
The DfE has made it clear: reliable digital infrastructure is foundational to modern education. (DfE Infrastructure Strategy)
We’re not just installers—we’re education connectivity specialists.
When you work with Simpli-Fi on your CtC upgrade, you get:
✅ Site survey & eligibility check
✅ Fully DfE-compliant design and planning
✅ Installation of high-performance WiFi 6 infrastructure
✅ Secure VLAN configuration and access policies
✅ Optional managed service with monitoring and support
We’ll work around your term times and operational needs to deliver seamless upgrades—with minimal disruption.
For MATs managing multiple sites, consistency is key. We help trusts:
Let Simpli-Fi be your trusted partner in digital transformation.
If your school or trust has been invited to take part in the 2025 extension, Simpli-Fi can support you every step of the way—from planning and procurement to installation and compliance.
Let’s future-proof your network while the funding is available.
Book your free consultation today or get in touch to learn more.
Simpli-Fi | Smart, Scalable Connectivity for Education
Helping schools stay connected, secure, and ready for the future.
View our work with the Connect the Classroom scheme
0345 612 3008
hello@simpli-fi.co.uk
As founder of Simpli-Fi, Gary's knowledge of cutting-edge networks and technology solutions is second to none. Gary has worked on countless projects over the years, from straightforward connectivity projects to complex, large-scale networking projects across multiple buildings.
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