Government issues new security guidance for schools and colleges

In a rapidly changing world where security threats are becoming more prevalent and diverse, it is essential that schools and colleges have a security policy and plan in place.

Last year, more than 1,000 children were caught carrying knives in schools and in London alone, police were called 8,000 times to deal with incidents including violence and drug use. Schools in Hampshire were also among 400 targeted as part of a hoax bomb threat in 2018, which led to hundreds of pupils being evacuated.

To support leadership teams, and following a lengthy consultation, the government recently released new guidance, designed to help schools and colleges best manage and respond to security-related incidents. The advice covers a range of threats, including physical security, cybersecurity and online environments.

According to the guidance, while schools are still one of the safest places to be, no educational institution can afford to ignore the potential threats - especially those associated with violent crime and terrorist attack.

Here, we’ve pulled together a summary of the key guidance relating to physical security risks. To view the full documentation, including accessing a range of templates and checklists, click here.

Who is responsible for school security?

A school security policy and plan should form part of the suite of policies that are put in place to safeguard the health, safety and well-being of students and staff. Every security plan will be unique and may be influenced by factors including size and location, along with any unique circumstances and local priorities.

There should be a competent person or persons who take the lead on health and safety, and security, and who have specialist subject knowledge and training in matters related to handling risk. Staff and, where appropriate, students should also take personal responsibility for both their own security and the security of those they work and learn alongside.

What type of security threats do schools face?

The three main types of threat within a school environment are: 

• Crime: Including arson, break-ins and theft, vandalism, trespass, malicious damage, drug dealing and the carrying of offensive weapons, such as knives.

• Terrorist attacks: Such as improvised explosive devices, gun or knife attacks, vehicles used as a weapon, and less commonly postal devices and chemical substances.

• Personal safety risk: Including physical attack, intimidation, bullying and risks associated with lone working (for staff, pupils and visitors alike).

What type of preventative measures might schools use?

There are a number of measures and procedures that can be put in place to help manage or mitigate the potential threats. While no two estates will have the same design and layout, certain physical security issues apply to all.

Here is what the guidance highlights: 

1. Perimeter fencing – The boundary is the first line of defence and should be protected with a secure fence or railings. Gates should be the same height as the fencing, fitted with anti-lift hinges, locking mechanisms that do not aid climbing and secured using an approved locking mechanism.
2. Security lighting – Security lighting should be provided around the perimeter of school buildings with dusk to dawn lighting on all elevations where there is an entrance door. Lighting should be designed to eliminate potential hiding points. Car parking areas should also be well lit and have good natural surveillance.
3. Access control system - The main entrance door to the school should incorporate some degree of access control. Other entrance points should be kept locked to prevent them from being opened from the outside but able to be unlocked from the inside in the event of an emergency.
4. Alarm systems and CCTV - A type ‘A’ monitored alarm is essential for school buildings, especially those that are in remote locations. It is essential to have clear facial recognition, to identify an offender and for subsequent evidential use. Fittings should be vandal resistant and positioned out of reach. Lighting should support the operation of CCTV, which should not be restricted by trees, shrubs or other landscaping features.
5. Windows and doors - All ground floor or other easily accessible windows above ground floor level should have suitable key operable locks fitted for additional security. Glazing to doors and ground floor windows should include one pane of attack resistant laminated glass. Steps should be taken to prevent access to the roof and/or courtyard areas.

Access control

Access control is naturally a core area of focus. As well as having a strong access control system and procedures in place, steps should be taken to manage visitors coming on site.

All visitors, including school governors, should initially report to the school office/reception. The purpose of the visit should be established before they are signed in and issued with a visitor’s badge, valid only on the day of issue. Identification provided by local authorities, utilities or other organisations should not be accepted as an alternative to the school’s own system. Visitors should always then be accompanied around the school.

Major incidents and emergencies

Another key issue covered are major incidents, including those classed as an emergency. All security policies need to include plans for what a school or college will do in the event of such incidents – whether they occur during normal working hours or out of hours, such as weekends and holidays. The plans should look at business continuity and how to get back to normality following an event, as well as covering off things such as post-incident evaluation.

Venture Security - professional security services you can trust

If you’re at all concerned about any of the issues raised here, our experienced team would be happy to help.

At Venture Security, we provide a range of security services for schools across the region, including key holding, alarm response and locks and unlocks services. All our security personnel are SIA Licensed and have completed enhanced DBS checks.

For an informal chat about your current security requirements, please call us on 01264 391538.