N4L report showcases digital achievements in NZ schools

Network for Learning (N4L) has released its 2024 Annual Report, detailing achievements in delivering digital solutions to schools across New Zealand.

N4L is a Crown company that provides managed internet, Wi-Fi, and cybersecurity services to over 2,500 schools and kura in Aotearoa, reaching more than 900,000 users. The company is committed to enhancing digital learning environments and continues to support schools in navigating the digital landscape.

The report highlights several key accomplishments during 2023/24. N4L maintained a high customer satisfaction rate of 92%, partnering with 2degrees and the Ministry of Education to launch the Satellite for Schools programme, which connected 40 of New Zealand's most remote schools through satellite internet technology.

Moreover, the company managed over 45,000 customer support cases during the year and blocked over 1.171 billion harmful or spam emails on its network. N4L has also focused on enhancing cybersecurity by partnering with the National Cyber Security Centre's Malware Free Networks Service and Phishing Disruption Service.

Further developments include the relaunch of their Secure Access product, the addition of nearly 100 more schools, and the blocking of 3.3 billion safety threats across the network—efforts aimed at ensuring the online safety of students, known as ākonga.

Additionally, work began on procuring partners to upgrade their Managed Network, a major project aimed at supporting the evolving digital needs of schools.

Larrie Moore, Chief Executive Officer of N4L, commented on the organisation's role amidst evolving educational needs: "As the needs of schools continue to change, online learning has continued to become even more critical. This year, the safety of children online has become part of the national conversation, so this makes N4L's role even more important."

"N4L is increasingly a core component of the education ecosystem, linking schools, technology providers and education agencies together, and we are excited about the opportunity to do even more: deliver and support a broader range of products and services that ensure every learner has access to effective digital tools that enhance their education."