With schools closed for the summer, education providers are being encouraged to review their security arrangements, based on an increased risk of break ins, vandalism, arson and theft.
Schools contain a wide range of valuable assets, including IT and sports equipment, specialist teaching resources, catering facilities and plant equipment. Criminals have also been known to target copper and lead from school buildings, creating costly repairs in addition to the theft itself.
Alongside the financial impact, incidents can delay maintenance projects, disrupt planned improvement works and create additional work before staff and pupils return.
While physical security remains essential, electronic security systems provide an additional layer of protection. Intruder alarms, CCTV and access control can help deter unauthorised access, provide evidence if an incident occurs and support a faster response where systems are remotely monitored.
Fire detection should also be fully operational throughout the holiday period, particularly where contractors are working on site or areas of the building are temporarily out of normal use.
The summer break provides an opportunity to ensure existing systems continue to reflect the school’s operational requirements. Changes to building layouts, new equipment, refurbishment projects or revised access arrangements can all affect how effectively fire and security systems perform.
Regular maintenance and testing help identify faults before buildings are left unoccupied, reducing the likelihood of issues remaining unnoticed for extended periods.
An integrated approach, where fire detection, intruder alarms, CCTV, access control and monitoring work together, enables schools to manage risk more effectively while sites are operating with reduced occupancy. Rather than relying on a single measure, each system contributes to a broader security strategy that supports the protection of people, buildings and critical assets.
At Amthal, we work with schools, academies and education providers to design, install, maintain and monitor integrated fire and security systems. Whether supporting planned maintenance, reviewing existing protection measures or providing 24/7 monitoring, we help ensure systems continue to perform when buildings are unoccupied, helping schools remain protected throughout the summer holidays and ready for the new academic year.