Peter Jackson, managing director of Jacksons Fencing, explores how the sector can stay ahead of emerging security challenges and safeguard its most-valuable assets with advanced, integrated security solutions

As educational institutions face an increasingly-complex security landscape, the need for robust and adaptable solutions has never been more pressing.

The risks to students, staff, and property have expanded beyond traditional threats like theft and trespassing to include cyber attacks, physical security breaches, and the need for heightened protections during high-profile events.

To address these evolving threats, education property managers are being pushed to think beyond conventional perimeter security and implement advanced, integrated systems.

And Jacksons Fencing is at the forefront of innovation in response to these trends.

Layered security

For years, perimeter fencing and access control have been the cornerstones of security for educational institutions.

However, as the risks facing these institutions become more complex, the need for layered security strategies has grown.

Perimeter security remains a vital first line of defence, but it’s no longer sufficient on its own.

The security of educational campuses requires a multi-layered approach that integrates everything from physical barriers to digital surveillance and cyber protections.

For schools, colleges, and universities, the key is to create a security solution that works across all potential vulnerabilities.

A modern security plan for education property might include high-security fencing, CCTV surveillance, intruder detection systems, secure access points, and robust cyber security measures for online platforms.

And these systems must be designed to complement each other, providing seamless protection while ensuring minimal disruption to the daily operations of the institution.

The education sector is also seeing an increase in the adoption of security ratings like LPS 1175, which certifies the effectiveness of physical security measures against forced entry and other threats. More schools and universities are now consulting security experts to ensure their perimeter solutions meet industry standards.

Securing data and sensitive infrastructure

In the age of digital transformation, there is now the challenge of protecting sensitive data stored on premises or in data centres.

Due to the amount of private and institutional data they house, such as student records, research data, or proprietary intellectual property, they are prime targets for cyber criminals or physical break-ins.

Institutions are increasingly turning to multi-layered security strategies for their data centres, including advanced fencing solutions, 24/7 surveillance, and biometric access control to ensure that only authorised individuals can access sensitive areas.

Moreover, institutions storing sensitive or proprietary data need to ensure compliance with data protection regulations, implementing both physical and cyber security measures to mitigate potential breaches.

Security experts recommend working with consultants to design bespoke security systems tailored to the unique needs of each campus, especially in areas like data centres where threats can range from cyber attacks to physical theft or vandalism.

Hostile Vehicle Mitigation (HVM) on campus

In recent years, the threat of vehicle-based attacks has become a significant concern for public spaces, including educational properties.

And, as a result, Hostile Vehicle Mitigation (HVM) systems are more frequently a consideration for schools and universities, particularly those in high-traffic areas or major urban centres.

HVM solutions are designed to prevent vehicles from driving onto campuses and into sensitive areas, effectively reducing the risk of vehicle ramming attacks.

HVM solutions, including anti-ram barriers, bollards, and reinforced gates, are designed to prevent vehicles from forcibly entering school sites.

These measures are particularly important during peak times, such as school arrivals and departures, as well as during large events.

Institutions should also consider the design of new buildings or renovations to incorporate these protective features from the outset, ensuring proactive measures are in place before incidents occur.

Securing key areas

Educational estates have several high-risk areas that require special attention when designing security systems.

The main perimeter, especially entrance gates, needs to be robust and centrally monitored to prevent weak spots.

Separate gates for vehicles and pedestrians ensure safety while maintaining smooth traffic flow.

Additionally, entry points to school buildings must have controlled access points, with surveillance cameras to monitor access and secure locks.

Specific areas such as playgrounds, recreational spaces, and bike storage also require secure fencing to prevent unauthorised access and protect students and valuable equipment.

Similarly, parking lots and drop-off zones require vigilant monitoring to ensure student safety during peak traffic times and prevent vehicle-related threats.

Educational institutions must also consider areas where students are near public spaces, such as footpaths running alongside school fields.

Privacy and noise control measures, including acoustic barriers, are essential for safeguarding students from inappropriate public contact and minimising disruptions from external noise, which is especially important in urban areas.

Adapting security for high-profile events

Many educational institutions host large events, such as graduations, sports games, and community gatherings, which require flexible and dynamic security systems.

These events can attract large crowds and media attention, increasing the risk of security incidents.

Future-planning is critical here, utilising risk assessments to map out any potential future events and designate areas to be used, then specifying appropriate security measures for them.

Alternatively, schools and universities should look to invest in scalable security solutions that can be quickly deployed and adapted to changing conditions.

Temporary barriers, crowd control measures, and portable surveillance systems are increasingly relied upon for such events. These solutions ensure the safety of students, staff, and visitors while maintaining a welcoming environment for large crowds.

Gates should also be considered in long-term planning, such as automated gates that can be customised to meet specific needs, ensuring security during high-traffic events without compromising campus aesthetics or functionality.

Gates come in various sizes and configurations, with options for vehicular or pedestrian use, as well as different opening types and single or double-leaf designs.

To ensure safety, gates can be equipped with sensors and reversing mechanisms to detect obstacles and prevent entrapment.

The future of education property security

The security needs of educational institutions have evolved significantly in recent years, driven by advances in technology and increased awareness of security threats.

Today’s security solutions must integrate both physical and digital protections, offering a comprehensive approach that addresses the complex challenges of modern campuses.

New technologies, such as smart surveillance systems, have enhanced the ability to monitor and respond to incidents in real time.

Additionally, evolving government regulations, such as updated fencing height standards and increased emphasis on acoustic barriers, have set new benchmarks for campus security.

By embracing these emerging trends, educational institutions can ensure that their campuses remain safe, secure, and resilient in the face of evolving threats.

As educational institutions face increasingly complex security risks, the need for integrated, adaptive security solutions has never been more pressing.

By adopting layered security strategies, protecting sensitive data, implementing hostile vehicle mitigation, and ensuring privacy and noise control, schools, colleges, and universities can safeguard their campuses for the future.

With the right planning, investment, and consultation, educational property managers can stay ahead of emerging security challenges, ensuring the safety of students, staff, and valuable assets in an unpredictable and rapidly-changing world.