After beating off stiff competition from a number of the region’s voice and data providers, Gateshead-based Executel was successfully awarded the major £85K contract for the new East Durham College which covers the provision of telephony, data networks, lines and calls.
The College – which previously operated between two campuses in Peterlee and a third on the outskirts of Durham City Centre – has recently relocated the majority of its operations to new state-of-the-art premises and turned to Executel for a cutting-edge communications infrastructure to complete the move.
Executel’s solution has since been successfully installed to serve some 300 users and comprises an IP telephony platform, WiFi handsets, a 100Mbps City Ethernet data circuit, IP networking between sites, call logging software, wholesale line rentals and a tailored Low Cost Routing (LCR) package.
Officially unveiled last month (Jan), East Durham’s new purpose-built facility boasts state-of-the-art classrooms and work areas along with a 500 seat sports arena and the region’s only dedicated specialist theatre.
Of the significant investment in new technology, Ian Prescott, Principal of the College said: “Here at East Durham College, we are committed to providing the best facilities for all who use the College; whether that be for our students, for businesses that use our facilities and train with us, or for our staff who need to be able to provide the best possible service.
“The systems provided by Executel will help us to facilitate a higher standard of communications and will help us continue to strive towards excellence in education.”
Executel Account Manager, Stephen McNickle, added: “By giving the new College the internal facilities to match its state-of-the-art exterior, Executel can do its bit to help serve the ever-increasing education and training needs of local communities in East Durham.
“Over the years, we have established an extensive portfolio of college and education-related clients and East Durham College has enabled us to build on this success and further our expertise in this arena. I therefore look forward to a long and rewarding relationship with the College moving forward.”