Primary schools go wireless

News bulletin: 9 September 2009

Classrooms are getting better internet access thanks to a wireless access point upgrade. All Victorian Government primary schools will benefit from the $7 million upgrade. 

The thousands of wireless access points (WAPs) will be delivered to schools this month.

The IBM and Cisco new generation dual radio WAPs and funding for cabling to every Victorian government primary school will mean that the statewide ratio of wireless radios will be one to 14 students, which is among the highest in Australia.

“Schools across the State already enjoy 10-megabits-per-second broadband speeds and these upgrades will help Victoria maintain its leadership in the provision of bandwidth to schools,” Minister for Education Bronwyn Pike said.

As well as the wireless upgrade, specialist school technicians are being trained in use, planning and placement of the new equipment in the classroom.

Ms Pike announced the upgrade while visiting Merri Creek Primary School on 1 September and they will be one of the first schools to go live with the new equipment.

“Our schools are keeping pace with fast-moving technology to ensure students develop the skills to equip them for 21st century jobs,” Ms Pike said.