WHAT IS CONNECT THE CLASSROOM?
Connect the Classroom from the Department for Education (DfE) is a fully funded programme that upgrades Wi-Fi, switching and LAN infrastructure in eligible UK schools.
As more pupils use laptops and tablets, reliable Wi-Fi, secure networks and modern LAN design become essential. Therefore, the programme helps schools meet digital standards through high-spec network infrastructure.
Funding
The current phase includes £25 million of DfE funding for 2025–26, in addition to £215 million invested between 2021 and 2025. Meanwhile, many responsible bodies are working towards a recommended claims timeline of 27 February 2026, as highlighted by sector partners.
As a result, schools increasingly partner with Clarion so their upgrades are designed, installed and documented on time — with all funding and admin steps handled smoothly from start to finish.
WHAT SCHOOLS ARE ELIGIBLE FOR THE FUNDING?
Schools located in Education Investment Areas (EIAs), or recently rated “Requires Improvement” or “Inadequate” by Ofsted, are more likely to be eligible for DfE Connect the Classroom funding. As a result, these areas remain the main focus for the programme.
Priority Schools
The Department for Education has identified twenty-four priority EIAs, including: Blackpool, Bradford, Derby, Doncaster, Fenlands & East Cambridgeshire, Halton, Hartlepool, Hastings, Ipswich, Knowsley, Liverpool, Middlesbrough, North Yorkshire Coast, Norwich, Nottingham, Oldham, Portsmouth, Rochdale, Salford, Sandwell, Stoke-on-Trent, Tameside, Walsall and West Somerset. Together, these regions represent the core locations most likely to receive support.
If you’re unsure whether your school qualifies, Clarion can quickly check your eligibility, and then guide you through the next steps to secure funding.
WHY WORK WITH CLARION?
The Clarion team provide clear, expert guidance across a wide range of ICT, network and telecoms solutions. As a result, we have a strong track record of helping schools upgrade their Wi-Fi, LAN and security infrastructure.
- Over 25 years’ experience supporting UK schools with ICT and network modernisation
- A proven record of helping academic institutions identify the most effective IT, network and telecoms solutions
- All recommendations aligned with Clarion’s sustainability commitments
- Support that helps schools strengthen their own CSR and environmental credentials
- Partnerships with leading DfE-aligned network, voice and IT suppliers across the UK
In addition, we help schools manage the admin, evidence gathering and documentation required for Connect the Classroom funding. This ensures the process stays simple, compliant and stress-free.
Check your school’s eligibility…
LET CLARION GUIDE YOU THROUGH THE PROCESS
- Engagement – Initial contact with DfE
- Assessment – Submit a network asset form and fill out a survey
- Procurement – Select your preferred supplier & cost matrix
- Funding – If approved, DfE give the school a funding agreement
- Delivery – Schedule works with your chosen supplier
- Finalisation – Submit any cost changes to DfE
- Claim – Submit an invoice for the works and DfE will channel payment through the responsible body
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The Harrow Club
"The Team at Clarion have instigated a series of cost-effective improvements to our equipment, network and processes that have significantly enhanced the Harrow Club’s ICT experience for staff and kids alike."
"The Team at Clarion have instigated a series of cost-effective improvements to our equipment, network and processes that have significantly enhanced the Harrow Club’s ICT experience for staff and kids alike."Q & A:
1. Who is eligible for Connect the Classroom funding?
Eligibility is typically based on whether a school is in an Education Investment Area or has been rated “Requires Improvement” or “Inadequate” in its most recent Ofsted inspection. Clarion can help confirm eligibility quickly.
2. How do schools apply for Connect the Classroom funding?
You cannot apply directly — the DfE contacts eligible schools or responsible bodies. Once contacted, schools can work with a delivery partner like Clarion to scope, design and deliver their upgrade.
3. What does Connect the Classroom funding cover?
Funding covers Wi-Fi 6 upgrades, switching, cabling, LAN improvements, network security, and supporting digital infrastructure needed to meet DfE digital standards.
4. What is the recommended deadline for submitting Connect the Classroom claims?
Several sector partners advise a recommended backstop of 27 February 2026 for submitting final claims for the current phase. Schools should plan projects early to avoid delays.
5. Does Connect the Classroom funding end in 2026?
The DfE confirms funding for the 2025–26 financial year, but has not publicly stated that the programme stops afterwards. Further phases may be announced via GOV.UK.
6. Is Clarion an approved supplier for Connect the Classroom?
Clarion has extensive experience delivering DfE-aligned Wi-Fi and LAN upgrades for more than 500 UK schools, supporting everything from design to installation and documentation.
7. What are the benefits of Connect the Classroom for schools?
Schools gain modern Wi-Fi, secure networks, improved reliability, faster access for pupils and staff, and infrastructure that meets DfE digital standards — fully funded.
8. How long does a Connect the Classroom project take?
Timelines vary by school size and complexity, but many responsible bodies recommend starting early so all work is completed well ahead of the February 2026 claims window.
9. Can multi-academy trusts complete several Connect the Classroom projects at once?
Yes. MATs often coordinate upgrades across schools, and Clarion supports multi-site planning, documentation and delivery.
10. What paperwork is required for Connect the Classroom funding?
Schools must provide design documents, installation evidence and completion reports. Clarion manages this process end-to-end to ensure smooth, compliant submission.
