Black Firs School, Winsford, Cheshire

Black Firs decided to develop their IT from a solid base so opted for a server-based network initially, rather than beginning with a small peer-to-peer network and changing later.

The pupils´ use of the internet is a controlled environment using products like SurfControl for content filtering and the Mdaemon mail-server that incorporates antispam. This both significantly reduces call charges and gives staff and parents alike the confidence in knowing that the material being accessed is appropriate.

Black Firs have been using P&L for more than 9 years and recent developments include;

• A multi-media suite incorporating an internet camera which allows parents to remotely view activities within the school, for example the recent chicken hatching.
• Laptops routed via a wireless network to provide flexibility for teachers as they move around the school and a dedicated server allowing students to use the internet to see their own work from home, whilst ensuring that the security of the network is not compromised.