Safer schools, brighter futures: Dudley Academies Trust enhances security measures

By integrating these advanced security measures, the Trust continues to take a holistic approach to safety that includes prevention, preparedness, and responsiveness. The initiative has received full support from the Trust’s Board of Trustees and West Midlands Police, highlighting the collaborative effort to maintain a secure environment.

Inspector Sarah Long, of West Midlands Police Dudley Partnerships Team, said: “The addition of these screening arches is just one way we’re working with our partners to keep our young people safe. It’s a great way to collaboratively work with the Dudley Academies Trust and the individual schools to continue the work we already do to educate young people on the dangers of knife crime. 

"The arches are a positive and preventative way of working with the Trust to give children, staff, and those visiting the schools that added peace of mind and it’s great to see that it’s received such an overwhelming amount of support from parents and the school. 

"Across Dudley, we’re seeing a reduction in knife crime and by installing arches like this in schools it’s a great way to continue keeping our communities safe and keep seeing that reduction in knife crime. We know that knife crime devastates lives, families, and communities, and we are committed to working with our partners to protect people whether that’s through education, enforcement, or support.”

A recent stakeholder survey revealed overwhelming support for this initiative, reflecting a shared commitment to safety and well-being. One respondent aptly stated: "Such measures are essential to ensure our children are safe in the school environment. It provides peace of mind for parents and learners."

The Trust recognises that most learners are responsible individuals who honour and uphold the values of the school. This initiative is intended to be proactive and provide an additional layer of security to ensure that everyone can continue to flourish in a secure environment.

Each school site has undergone meticulous assessment to identify the optimal locations for the security screening arches, ensuring their seamless integration and functionality. Comprehensive staff training, guided by the West Midlands Police, will also be a top priority to ensure the successful implementation and operation of these new security features.

Jo Higgins, Chief Executive Officer of Dudley Academies Trust, said: “It is important to view the security screens in the context of our personal development education programme. Our learners need to have a clear understanding of their community and the risks posed by knife crime. We are committed to ensuring that they can think critically about the issues they face, articulate their views confidently and know how to seek help and support if they encounter negative or exploitative influences. The presence of security screens means that no learner will feel pressured to carry a knife or bladed item out of fear as they can be assured that their schools will not be places where others can be in possession of such items. Above all, we are committed to ensuring that our schools will always be safe and secure environments where our learners can focus on their learning and flourish.”

This comprehensive approach to safety demonstrates Dudley Academies Trust's unwavering dedication to creating a nurturing educational environment. By staying ahead of potential risks, the Trust ensures that learners, staff, and parents can focus on what truly matters: education.