The delivery of unmetered ultrafast broadband connectivity to New Zealand’s schools is a step into the future of education.

While it is somewhat difficult to precisely define the benefit of such connectivity, given the breadth and depth of possibilities opened up by the internet, what is clear is that unfettered access to information, communication and collaboration can only have a stimulatory effect on education.

With its recent announcement that it is to offer unlimited internet to New Zealand schools, CallPlus is allowing schools to fully harness the learning benefits of the government’s Ultrafast Broadband and Rural Broadband initiatives without worrying about data caps and costs.

In providing communications solutions to around a quarter of Kiwi schools, CallPlus general manager Kelvin Hussey says the company understands the funding challenges schools face.  “Schools should be able to take full advantage of ultra-fast broadband without cost or data caps being an obstacle.”

Hussey says small schools already use 30 to 40GB on average. “They are heavy users, demonstrating the value that connectivity is adding. While working out what makes a school successful is a lot more than its access to the internet, he adds, access to faster speeds, better connectivity and online services is expected to have a positive effect.

“In particular, access to services such as online educational aids, videos and real time collaboration, and the enormous store of knowledge that is represented by the internet, is of considerable benefit.”

Chris Johnston, President of School Executive Officers’ Association says CallPlus has got its offer ‘just right’. “It understands schools and how they operate today, both from a learning and management perspective. Ultrafast broadband has the potential to transform teaching and learning in our schools and it’s heartening to see that this evolution doesn’t necessarily come with excessive data bills.”

CallPlus’ unlimited plans over a fibre connection include online backup, a web domain and web hosting, email to bulk SMS, and two voice lines from just $130 per month.

Additionally, the company works with Slingshot on the Better Schools programme – an initiative that enables schools to reduce their communications costs and also raise funds.

For more information on the CallPlus UFB Start Up Plan or the Better Schools programme visit www.callplus.co.nz