Marlborough Boys' College principal Wayne Hegarty wants the college to be fast-tracked for a ministry computer network upgrade as it works to earthquake-strengthen parts of the campus.
It would be "common sense" for the ministry to upgrade the school's electrical infrastructure as part of its School Network Upgrade Project (SNUP) while the college starts the process of redeveloping parts of the school, he said.
"The walls are going to be stripped off and it's just common sense they'll [the ministry] do it at the same time."
The college would eventually get the upgrade, which is for all state-integrated schools, but it would save the ministry having to come back and strip the walls again, he said.
The SNUP programme gives schools a subsidised upgrade of their internet speed and cabling infrastructure so they can use ultra-fast broadband.
According to the ministry website, the upgrade includes the cabling with a 20 to 25-year warranty, extra power outlets in classrooms and backup devices for the school server.
The ministry pays for 68 per cent of the upgrade and project management costs, according to the website. The upgrade does not include computers or laptops.
Mr Hegarty said the school already had cabling infrastructure that was installed under previous principal John Rodgers, which was "one of the things which contributed to our financial woes".
The infrastructure gives the school faster internet download speeds, runs computer applications faster and also provides the school with wireless internet.
However, the school could not take full advantage of the existing infrastructure until more power outlets and switches were installed, he said.
"It's like we've got a Rolls-Royce engine running a Mini."
Where the college can put computers is restricted by the number of power outlets, and more plugs would mean more options to place computers around the campus, including breakout rooms between classes and in computer pods, he said.
Mr Hegarty has made submissions to the ministry about fast-tracking the upgrade, but said he had not received a response yet.
Parts of the college are being redesigned to incorporate new technology and resources, while areas are realigned and strengthened to meet ministry earthquake standards.
Staff members have met with the school's architect, Tim Barton, to discuss ways to improve the school, which could include a central area for faculty and taking down some stairwells and
- The Marlborough Express
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