In recent years security in schools and colleges has stepped up. In fact in 2015 the Australian government committed a further $18 million over a 3 year period in order to ramp up their existing school security program.
However, while security of public spaces is a government concern, as a proprietor of a school, it’s fair to say that you have a moral responsibility to protect those within. With this in mind, here are the best eight fail proof school security practices that aid the protection of students and staff within your care. Let’s dive in and take a look…
Installing CCTV
As with any area where large amounts of people are situated, CCTV offers some form of protection. While not stopping a break in, assault, or terrorist activity, it can act as a strong deterrent (especially when accompanied by clear signage) and can also be used as evidence in a court of law, should the need arise.
Sufficient perimeter lighting
Schools are predominantly large areas so the need for sufficient lighting especially around the perimeter area is important. Install spotlights or movement-censored lighting to light up any dark areas or recesses where criminal activity may take place.
Secure fencing and gates
Your school may have numerous entrance and exit points. From a security perspective,
it’s easier to ensure best control of students, staff and visitors while entering and exiting the premises by restricting access. Secure gates that are not often used and have people flow through one entry/exit point only. This way it’s far easier to monitor and to keep a watch out for anyone acting strangely.
Conduct security screening for any visitors
It can be difficult for school governors to know who is on the premises at any one time. Therefore anyone not associated directly with the school – e.g. non pupils or teachers should be screened and cleared before entry. This can be something as simple as making them have a prior appointment and getting them to sign in upon arrival.
Background security checks
Due diligence checks on anyone looking to work in any workplace should be ‘par for the course’ and teachers should be no exception. Ensure that anyone you hire doesn’t pose a security threat by running a thorough background checks on all candidates.
Staff and pupil training
The need for teacher and pupil training on the importance of being security conscious is vital. Reward the reporting of a security breach or suspicious activity and make it comfortable for both staff and pupils to do so. Install a way of thinking that will cause them to be security focussed at all times and let them become your eyes and ears when it isn’t always possible for you to do so.
Form a security club
With the increase in worldwide terrorism why not form a security club where students can discuss security measures and ideas openly amongst others sharing the same vested interest.
Student bag/locker searches
Schools have seen a growing increase in weaponry being brought in over the last decade. In fact a report in the Brisbane Courier as recently as July 2017 highlighted the fact that weapons such as knives, guns, machetes, and tasers had been confiscated from pupils attending Queensland schools in the past 15 months alone. As a result regular bag/locker searches of students should deter anyone from bringing in dangerous weapons which may endanger the lives of other students and teaching staff.
As you can see, a lot of these practices are relatively easy to implement and will only take a certain amount of organisation. However the end results could be life saving.
If you need further assistance on implementing a security program in your school, then contact MA Security. As well as providing security personnel for individuals, businesses and event throughout Queensland we also carry out security risk assessments. Contact us today on 1300 020 406 and start taking your school security seriously.
