The future of school broadband: What’s next for education connectivity?

As schools and multi-academy trusts (MATs) prepare for the year ahead, broadband connectivity remains a key part of digital planning. With growing use of online learning tools, cloud platforms, and new technologies like AI, having the right infrastructure in place is essential.

Through the Everything ICT Department for Education (DfE)-approved framework, schools can access reliable, scalable broadband solutions from trusted suppliers who understand the education sector’s requirements.

Upgrading broadband: Preparing for the digital switchover

With the Public Switched Telephone Network (PSTN) being phased out by January 2027, schools relying on legacy copper connections will need to upgrade to stay connected. Many are already moving to full fibre broadband, which offers the speed and reliability needed to support cloud-based learning, video platforms, and secure access to digital services.

5G is also starting to play a role—particularly for schools in remote or hard-to-reach areas—offering flexible options where fixed-line connections are more difficult to deliver.

Everything ICT’s DfE-approved framework connects schools with experienced suppliers offering practical, future-ready broadband solutions. Whether upgrading existing lines or planning a wider rollout, schools and MATs can access compliant, cost-effective support through a single procurement route.

The impact of AI and EdTech on school broadband

AI-powered tools—such as adaptive learning platforms and automated marking—are starting to appear in some secondary schools and MATs, particularly those investing in digital strategies. These, along with more widely used cloud-based EdTech for teaching, SEND support, and safeguarding, all rely on strong, reliable broadband to function effectively.

With Everything ICT, schools and MATs can work with suppliers who understand these growing demands. Our approved partners help ensure your broadband is ready to support current technologies and future developments.

Scaling for growth: Why it matters for MATs

As Multi-Academy Trusts grow, so do their digital requirements. A broadband setup that works well for a single school may not be suitable—or cost-effective—across multiple sites. Ensuring consistent, reliable connectivity becomes more complex as trusts expand and introduce shared systems, cloud services, and centralised platforms.

That’s why scalability is key. Everything ICT’s approved suppliers have experience delivering broadband solutions that scale effectively, helping build a consistent, reliable network across all schools in the trust.

"Everything ICT were incredibly helpful in supporting our broadband switch. They answered all our questions in a transparent way and were honest and comprehensive when providing a quote. We are pleased with the decision we have made and feel comfortable that we will be well supported."

Yasmine T - Sawtry Infant School

Procurement you can trust

Broadband procurement can often feel complex—especially when balancing compliance, budget, and long-term digital plans. Our DfE-approved framework is designed to reduce that burden, offering schools and MATs a trusted route to broadband procurement.

We provide access to:

• Pre-approved suppliers with proven experience in education technology and infrastructure

• A streamlined, fully compliant tendering process that reduces administrative load

• Supportive guidance to help schools and trusts align broadband options with their goals and resources

Whether you’re a single school planning a fibre upgrade or a MAT developing a trust-wide digital infrastructure, we’ll connect you with suppliers who can deliver scalable, forward-thinking connectivity solutions.

Looking ahead

As the use of digital tools and platforms continues to grow, having the right broadband infrastructure in place is becoming essential. With the digital switch (PSTN switch-off) already underway and due for completion by January 2027, and the increasing demands of AI and EdTech, now is a good time for schools and MATs to review their connectivity plans.

To find out how the Everything ICT framework can support your next steps, contact us to discuss your broadband requirements with our team.