£25 Million in New DfE Funding for Connect The Classroom – How Wave 9 Can Help
In March 2025, the Department of Education (DfE) announced an additional £25 million in funding for the Connect The Classroom programme, which offers schools across the UK a huge opportunity to improve their digital infrastructure.
At Wave 9 Managed Services, we’ve been proud to help schools secure this funding and deliver high-quality, DfE-compliant network upgrades. With this new funding round, we’re ready to help even more schools future-proof their connectivity.
Update for 2026/27: Wave9 has now delivered more than 90 successful Connect the Classroom projects. If your school has been contacted by DfE about the current programme, visit our dedicated Connect the Classroom page for the latest information on eligibility, the DfE process, project delivery and how Wave9 can help.
What is Connect The Classroom?
Connect The Classroom is a government-backed initiative that provides funding to eligible schools to upgrade their wireless and network infrastructure in accordance with DfE standards. It aims to ensure that all schools, historically those in Education Investment Areas, have access to fast, secure, and reliable networks that support modern digital learning.
How Has the Programme Helped So Far?
- Helped hundreds of schools replace ageing network systems
- Delivered faster, more secure, and more reliable connectivity
- Facilitated more dynamic and inclusive learning environments
- Ensured compliance with the DfE’s network infrastructure standards
Wave 9’s Role in Successful School Upgrades
We’ve worked with schools nationwide to:
- Navigate eligibility and funding applications
- Design bespoke, future-ready networks
- Procure hardware and services through DfE-compliant channels
- Deliver and install end-to-end solutions with minimal disruption
Our proven approach ensures every school gets the best solution with complete confidence in compliance and long-term value.
What Should Schools Do Now?
The DfE will clarify eligibility for the 2025 funding round in Spring 2025.
If you think your school will qualify, now is the time to prepare.
*Many schools currently receiving targeted intervention through the regional improvement for standards and excellence (RISE) programme will be eligible for this phase of Connect the Classroom* https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/rise-programme-lists-of-advisers-and-schools
How Wave 9 Can Support You
We provide full end-to-end project support:
- Requirements gathering
- Network design & specification
- Simple, compliant procurement
- Installation & commissioning
- Ongoing support
Let’s Get Started
For current Connect the Classroom guidance and details of how Wave9 supports schools from survey through to completion, visit our dedicated Connect the Classroom page.
Or, if you’d prefer to speak to us directly, call 01785 472200 or email: info@wave9.co.uk