It’s hard to imagine a time when safeguarding in schools meant anything other than enforcing pupils to wear a face mask, socialise within a bubble and walk in a single file.

I’m sure we can all agree that COVID-19 has thrown a spanner in the works for most establishments (to put it lightly), but schools, colleges and other educational facilities had a duty of care to create a safe environment for pupils long before the pandemic began.

In fact, having the right procedures and security systems in place is an Ofsted regulation, as well as a government requirement. If they suspect a possible breach of security, Ofsted inspectors can actually mark your school down.

So, what is Ofsted looking for?

Ofsted inspectors look beyond quality of education. Health & safety, and general security of the grounds and school building are equally important factors in determining the standard of a school.

In order to adhere to guidelines laid out by governing bodies, security measures such as access control, emergency lighting, fire procedures, alarm systems and CCTV must be carefully considered:

• Does your facility have a type ‘A’ alarm system, monitored by a central monitoring station?
• Do you have an adequate fire detection system?
• Is your CCTV placed out of reach?
• Does it provide clear facial recognition?
• Do you have lighting to support the operation of CCTV?
• Does the main entrance of your school building have some degree of access control?
• Do you have the facility for immediate response to security breaches?

More about School Security Systems

School security systems in the UK have evolved significantly over the years, reflecting the field’s changing needs and technological advancements. At the core of these systems is the aim to provide a safe and secure environment for students, teachers, and staff. The approach to security is multifaceted, often integrating physical, digital, and human elements.

Firstly, physical security measures are the most visible aspects of these systems. This includes the installation of fences and gates around the perimeter of the school property. These barriers control access, ensuring that only authorised individuals can enter the premises during school hours. In addition to this, many schools have implemented CCTV systems. These cameras are strategically placed around the school, monitoring corridors, entrances, and outdoor areas. They act as a deterrent to potential intruders and help monitor any suspicious activities.

Another crucial element is the digital security systems. Advanced technologies such as electronic access control systems have been adopted in many schools. These systems use key cards or biometric scanners to allow entry into the building or specific areas within it. This prevents unauthorised access and enables the school to record who enters and leaves the premises and at what times. Additionally, schools increasingly utilise cybersecurity measures to protect their computer networks and their sensitive data, such as student records.

The human aspects of school security cannot be overstated. This includes trained security personnel who monitor the school grounds and respond to security incidents. Schools also invest in training staff and students in security protocols, such as what to do in an emergency. This training is crucial as it ensures that everyone knows how to respond appropriately in different situations, which can significantly enhance the school’s overall security.

In conclusion, school security systems in the UK are comprehensive, combining physical barriers, surveillance technology, digital security measures, and human vigilance. Together, these elements create a secure environment that enables students to learn and teachers to teach without concern for their safety. As technology advances and the needs of schools evolve, these security systems will continue to adapt to ensure they provide the best possible protection.

How Scope can help

Having reliable, compliant security systems and procedures in place can mean the difference between a good Ofsted score and an outstanding one, but more importantly, it will create a safe and comfortable space for pupils to learn.

The team at Scope are experts in the design and installation of all types of school security systems, and we can work around your needs and obligations to keep your school safe. We know that getting used to new technologies can be difficult, so we also provide training and aftercare to make the transition as smooth as possible.

For the full Scope, please call 03300884647 and speak to a member of the team.