Existing Protocols for Academic use of IT?

Hi
I'm a teacher at a tertiary institution -
We have all the usual problems with an IT department more interested in issues of security and efficiency than in allowing us to use our IT infrastructure for teaching and learning.

I've been asked to create a protocol document which can be used to protect the academic needs of our staff and students. For example - FTP access is an integral part of our course, and there are huge implications every time the port is blocked.

There must be such protocols at other institutions, or people who have insight into how to draw up such a document. Any pointers for me?