Rotorua schools quick to take up fast internet

Todd McClay

More Rotorua schools have access to fast internet with 17 schools now connected to the Government's Managed Network and several more signed up.

Rotorua MP Todd McClay says the Government is investing $211 million in the Network for Learning (N4L) programme, which will provide quick and reliable internet with uncapped data, web filtering and network security services for participating New Zealand schools.

"I am delighted all schools in Rotorua who want it will soon have access to ultra-fast broadband and all the educational opportunities this will bring."

The Rotorua schools which the Ministry of Education has confirmed are connected to the service are Lake Rotoma, Mamaku, Ngongotaha, Kawaha Point, Selwyn, Western Heights Primary, Westbrook, Otonga, St Mary's, Mokoia, Rotokawa, Te Kura Kaupapa Maori o Ruamata, Malfroy, Rotorua Girls' High School, Glenholme and Rotorua Intermediate.

Mr McClay said there were more Rotorua schools that were signed up and waiting to be connected and others that had registered interest.

"Ultra-fast broadband is an exciting tool for the future of education.

"Schools will be able to share resources and students will be able to take part in virtual classrooms and courses that might not be available at their own schools.

"The opportunities for learning are enormous. Access to fast internet will help connect Rotorua schools with the world and prepare students for living and working in the 21st century."