Full fibre broadband for Bracknell Forest schools and public buildings
Primary schools in Bracknell Forest are set to be offered full fibre broadband to improve their digital infrastructure, thanks to a partnership between Bracknell Forest Council, DIG (Digital Infrastructure Group) and Virgin Media Business.
Nine primary schools will have the work to upgrade their broadband in the new year, with over 3,800 pupils in the borough set to benefit from future-proof full fibre connections. The schools that are currently being offered the work based on access are:
- Crown Wood Primary School
- Foxhill Primary School
- Great Hollands Primary School
- Harmans Water Primary School
- Kennel Lane School
- Meadow Vale Primary School
- Sandy Lane Primary School
- Warfield CE Primary School
- Whitegrove Primary School
COVID-19 has led to schools dramatically accelerating their digital learning programmes, which has caused challenges in some areas. Full fibre infrastructure will support and strengthen digital learning for the borough’s pupils.
Cllr Gareth Barnard, Executive Member for Children, Young People & Learning, said: “Attaining this award to supply full fibre broadband to some of our schools is a huge step in the right direction to achieving a more digital and connected borough.
“This exciting project will make a dramatic difference for students in the classroom - a fast, reliable internet connection has never been more important, and this project will benefit those who need it the most.”
The full fibre broadband installation is part of a Berkshire wide scheme working in conjunction with other Berkshire local authorities. Virgin Media Business has been awarded the contract to supply full fibre infrastructure to schools, GP surgeries and public libraries across Berkshire by March 2022. Connectivity at more than 80 Berkshire locations is set to be upgraded.
Alison Webster, Chief Executive of Thames Valley Berkshire LEP added: “The pandemic has demonstrated that schools and communities need to be equipped with the latest technology; it’s not a nice to have but is vital to our prosperity. The rollout of full fibre will not only keep our communities connected during times like this, but will also future-proof Berkshire’s economy, ensuring our capacity to attract and retain cutting edge businesses from across the digital sector to life sciences and the emerging film and TV production sectors. We’re delighted be playing a leading role, alongside our partners, in connecting Berkshire which has never felt as important as it does right now.”
Mike Smith, Director of Large Enterprise and Public Sector at Virgin Media O2 Business said: “This investment will bring next-generation connectivity across Berkshire and help the region to thrive. With so many schools being connected, young people are set to benefit from the infrastructure they need to get ahead in the digital era.”
The £1.7m project funded by Thames Valley Berkshire LEP, will also be offering two local libraries, Binfield and Harman’s Water, the chance to access full fibre broadband. Work will start in January with further sites being added later in 2022.