Broadband for Shore schools

MARNIE HALLAHAN

Fifteen more North Shore schools have been named in the latest round to receive full network upgrades, in readiness for ultra-fast broadband.

Since the government-subsidised School Network Upgrade Project began in 2011, 36 primary, intermediate and secondary schools on the North Shore have been made ultra-fast broadband capable.

Almost 800 schools nationally have had their internet capabilities upgraded in the first year of the scheme, more than one-third of those schools who have applied.

Education Minister Hekia Parata says that 97.7 percent of schools and 99.9 percent of students will receive ultra-fast broadband capability by June 30, 2015.

The remainder in areas too remote for fibre connections will receive an improved broadband service via satellite or alternative technology, she says.

Schools that have applied to the scheme will be prioritised according to selection criteria.

Ms Parata says the selection criteria has been revised to place greater emphasis on schools with high numbers of Maori, Pasifika and special needs students.

The latest North Shore secondary schools to be chosen are: Takapuna Grammar School, Rosmini College, Westlake Girls High School and Glenfield College.

Primary and Intermediate schools included are: Albany School, Campbells Bay School, Glamorgan School, Hauraki School, Kauri Park School, Murrays Bay School, Murrays Bay Intermediate, St Joseph's School, St Leos School and Wairau Valley School.

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