What is Broadband?
Broadband is a general term used to describe high-speed internet connectivity. Connection speed is measured in kilobits per second (Kbps) and megabits per second (Mbps).

Broadband for Schools
The DfES aim is to establish a broadband national educational network connecting all schools to each other, without having to go over the Internet. These connections should be supplied through an LEA or a Regional Broadband Consortium (e.g. SEGfL). The focus is to place minimal administrative and support burdens on schools.

The target announced by the Prime Minister in November 2002 is for all schools to have a broadband connection by 2006 at bandwidths appropriate to their particular circumstances and needs. Within this vision, the DfES expects most primary schools to be connected at 2 Mbps or faster and secondary schools at 8 Mbps or faster. All broadband connections should be ‘symmetrical' so that the connection speed is the same in both directions. Find out more.......

What is the National Educational Network?

The National Educational Network (NEN), is single private network. The NEN provides schools with a secure network over which a range of broadband services can be delivered at a guaranteed quality without having to go out onto the internet as well as a gateway into the internet via secure connections managed by the RBCs (see further down the page).

The NEN also ensures that all schools, colleges and universities are connected through a single backbone - providing for the first time a truly national education network. It is envisaged that the NEN will be extended in 2005-06, to include adult and community institutions as well as be upgraded to SuperJANET 5, with increased network capacity.

What is Kent Community Network?

The Kent Community Network is part of a Educational Network linking schools across England. KCN is a programme initiated by Kent County Council that aims to provide an ICT rich environment that will connect schools, libraries, museums, galleries and even businesses using the latest technology.

What are the Regional Broadband Consortia (RBCs)?

The Regional Broadband Consortia (RBCs) are a consortia of LEAs established to procure cost-effective broadband connectivity for schools in England. There are 10 RBCs covering all areas of England: