Avonside and Shirley Schools’ IT Partnership Success

6 Minutes Read

A Uniquely Shared Educational Landscape

Avonside Girls’ High School and Shirley Boys’ High School in Christchurch, New Zealand, exemplify the success of the IT partnership. Following the devastating 2011 earthquake, these two single-sex schools became pioneers of shared-campus education in New Zealand. Rebuilding together on a single site, they maintained their identities while fostering collaboration. This innovative setup brought unique challenges, particularly in creating a secure, functional IT network to support the distinct needs of both schools on a shared infrastructure.

Avonside Girls’ and Shirley Boys’ Schools’ IT Partnership

IT Partnership Success: Overcoming Challenges in Shared Education

Avonside Girls’ and Shirley Boys’ Schools faced significant challenges before establishing their co-located campuses. Both schools required updated devices and new IT setups to support their educational activities. Transitioning to a shared system was complex, particularly in coordinating shared staff, classes, and facilities such as the library, gymnasium, and theatre. Implementing a reliable IT

system was essential to protect each school’s data while enabling seamless movement across shared spaces.

Effective IT Solutions for Avonside and Shirley Schools’ Success

Through collaboration, the schools developed a customised network infrastructure that effectively supports both institutions. The co-location project, part of a Public Private Partnership (PPP) campus, involved various stakeholders and required a robust network design. The current system allows students and staff to easily access shared resources while keeping each school’s data secure and separate.

Integrating two schools with distinct IT backgrounds into one campus presented unique challenges. Leveraging New Era’s experience in the education sector, a flexible technology system was created to support both schools’ operations. While cloud technologies were adopted, on-site equipment remains essential for certain functions, ensuring a smooth transition. This balanced managed network environment has minimised disruptions and maintained high levels of staff satisfaction.

Celebrating Technological Enhancements in Learning

The new IT infrastructure has enabled both schools to adopt a hybrid approach, utilising on-site and cloud storage solutions while maintaining security standards. This has led to increased operational efficiency, streamlined network management, and optimal resource utilisation, resulting in significant cost savings without compromising service quality.

Enhanced communication and collaboration among staff and students from both schools have fostered a vibrant learning environment. Access to advanced technology and shared resources has empowered both schools to excel, even in challenging situations. These improvements have been instrumental in supporting academic achievements and enriching the overall educational experience.

 

Long-term IT Collaboration for Shared Educational Excellence in Christchurch

The strong partnership between the schools and New Era has been crucial to the school’s success and evolution. On-site technicians have become integral members of the school communities, building trust and providing personalised support that both schools greatly value.

The Platinum Plus Ultra Agreement, shared by Avonside Girls’ and Shirley Boys’ Schools, reinforces this collaboration. The support model ensures continuous IT assistance with dedicated technicians, while a five-year strategic planning initiative guarantees predictable ICT spending and long-term stability.

Shared education at Shirley Boys

This collaboration has not only addressed the initial challenges faced through co-location but also set both schools on a path to sustainable success. By fostering a robust IT infrastructure and a strong partnership, Avonside Girls’ and Shirley Boys’ Schools are well-equipped to support their students and staff, ensuring continued excellence in education now and in the future.

Empower Your School with New Era’s Tailored IT Solutions 

Is your school navigating IT challenges similar to Avonside Girls’ and Shirley Boys’ High Schools? Whether you’re exploring co-location, shared-campus education, or upgrading your existing infrastructure, we’re here to help. Our proven expertise in designing secure, flexible IT systems tailored to schools’ unique needs ensures a seamless transition and long-term success.

Let’s start a conversation about how we can support your school’s journey. Contact us today to discuss a customised solution that works for you.