DfE Site Visit - Connect the Classroom

[CrootUK]

Hi All,

 

For those who have gone through a site visit from DfE in regards to a completed CTC project, what kind of questions were asked etc? just trying to gain clarity on the kind of people that need to be present for it?

 

Were any technical questions asked?

 

Many thanks

[Aprice]

We had one a while back, it was a very positive experience.

 

They wanted to check what was paid for was actually there. In our case just switching, Just really checking the model numbers.

 

Then went into a meeting with us and the head, where we discussed the program in general, feedback about the experience. They wanted to know the good and bad to feedback and hopefully guide future programs. Very relaxed and nothing to worry about. More interested in the T&L impact rather than how many VLANS and other technical aspects.

[Sylv3r]

I've got one tomorrow (our first). If I remember, I'll update you with what happens / was discussed.

[Sylv3r]

Visit took place yesterday and was fairly quick ~ around an hour.

 

Discussed the rationale for choosing the vendor we went for (Meraki)

Showed the handover and UAT documentation that was provided by the supplier - they did pick up on the fact that the cabling certificate wasn't provided (to be honest, I missed that myself)

Walked the site to identify the hardware that was approved was still in place - data cabinets, switches and APs (internal and External)

Went through the Microsoft Team survey that you probably completed prior to the visit taking place - this seemed a bit strange and it was as if there wasn't already a copy of my answers - so had to go through the questions again.

 

We then discussed the benefits of the scheme to the school, teaching and learning and SEND children.

 

Then they asked for feedback on the administration of the programme and what could be done better.

 

All in all, they did appear to take the feedback on board - no promise of another phase but I have the impression they are keen to do so, however with the change of government and a massive shortfall in funding due to having to fund all the RAAC changes this may not be at the same scale.