Sunderland firm is a class act as it offers support to schools

CCS will provide broadband services, web filtering and firewall facilities to the two academies.

The firm will be working with Hummersknott Academy and Skerne Park Academy, in Darlington, from early next year in a deal that will save the schools about £40,000 between them over three years.

And the Smoothwall software being installed by CCS is designed to protect young people from inappropriate online content, including radicalisation and cyber bullying.

CCS Business Development Manager Lee Carter said: “We are really pleased we were able to provide such a cost saving for Hummersknott and Skerne Park while still ensuring they are getting the coverage and protection required.

“We pride ourselves on being able to access the best deals possible for our customers and in taking an ethical stance when it comes to selling – there are no hidden clauses and everything is clear and transparent from the offset.

“We have built our reputation on trust, honesty and providing a first-class service and that is what sets us apart from our competitors.”

Hummersknott Vice Principal (Business & Finance) Nigel Foster worked with Lee on the deal. He said: “Like many schools in the North East we have been tied into a contract for the last five years and haven’t been able to source the best value deals around.

“When I met with Lee from CCS and he explained how much they could save us I was delighted – that is money which can be put back into the school and providing the best learning opportunities for our pupils.”

CCS will be providing 100MB broadband to Hummersknott Academy, which has 1,222 pupils from Years 7 to 13, and 10MB broadband to Skerne Park Academy, which has 380 pupils from reception though to Year 6.

The deal, which will run for three years, will also provide web filtering and firewall provision from specialist developer Smoothwall, ensuring pupils are protected while still being able to access the internet.

Online safety within schools is an issue CCS has been exploring in detail, with the company recently releasing a whitepaper in association with Smoothwall entitled Keeping Children Safe in Education.