Protecting your school – Implementing a future-proof security strategy

Guest article from Allcooper Group

The security of your school

It goes without saying that the security and safety of your school is paramount. Alongside your commitment to delivering excellent academic and pastoral provision, you have a critical responsibility to protect your pupils, staff and assets from anything that could put them or your reputation at risk. With little guidance readily available for schools, dealing with this responsibility can be challenging. So, what approach should you take and where can you go for best advice?

Taking a proactive approach

Those responsible for school security are encouraged to embrace a new way of thinking, where security takes a prominent role in the proactive running of the school. It’s important to remember that security is not simply a reactive measure that must be implemented for compliance purposes. Yes, compliance to the latest standards is fundamental, but there are many additional ways security can help you better manage your school, such as being able to monitor day to day activity, control access to specific areas and investigate incidents captured on camera.

Turning technology to your advantage

New innovations across the board are helping schools transform the way they use their security systems. High Definition (HD) CCTV provides ultra-clear image quality, day and night, so you can review footage in detail. There’s also number plate recognition and video software for precise analytics. Access control and entry systems are even using biometric technology to allow fingerprint scanning. Your security provider should be able to help you understand and see the latest systems, and explain how you can integrate and maximise your school’s security for years to come.

Implementing your security strategy

With technology continually evolving, so does the need for a modern and effective security and safety strategy. Every school is different, making it difficult to find a ‘one size fits all’ solution. However, most schools do have a lot in common.

Your security strategy should have a vision and incorporate physical security systems, such as alarms, fire protection, CCTV and access control, as well as best practices for minimising risk. Ideally, this strategy should be procured, sanctioned, deployed and fully-funded by the Senior Management Team.

How to choose the correct partner 

Our recommendation would be to work with a security company that can clearly demonstrate their experience in schools.  Ensure they can illustrate their knowledge through successful installation and maintenance of systems over a long period within a complex school environment. Ideally, they would have a security consulting function in house and can easily work with you to create a long-term, effective security strategy.