What to do next with Connect the Classroom funding

Schools contacted by the Department for Education about Connect the Classroom funding now need to move quickly from eligibility into planning, procurement and delivery.

For the current 2026/27 programme, all work must be completed and final claims submitted by 26 February 2027. With surveys, design work, DfE approval and limited installation windows to factor in, the available time can reduce quickly.

Getting the project from plan to delivery

A Connect the Classroom project brings together wireless surveys, switching, cabling, technical design, supplier cost information and DfE approval before installation can begin.

Wave9 has delivered more than 90 successful Connect the Classroom projects since 2021, giving our team detailed experience of both the technical requirements and the practical process involved.

Our role typically runs from initial survey and network design through DfE approval, installation, testing and handover. Our project team plans delivery around term dates, site access and the limited installation windows available to schools, keeping the process moving without leaving the school to coordinate every technical detail.

Wave9 sees wireless and network infrastructure as part of the wider school technology environment. Connectivity, Wi-Fi, switching, filtering and monitoring all need to work together to give pupils and staff reliable access to the technology they use every day.

What to do next

If your school has been contacted by DfE about Connect the Classroom funding, you can read more about the current programme and how Wave9 supports schools on our Connect the Classroom page.

If you’d rather speak to us directly, call 01785 472 200 or email info@wave9.co.uk.

For broader information about school Wi-Fi, switching and network infrastructure, visit our Wireless & Network page.