Security at schools beefed up following Clare Hall secondary gun incident

The Ministry of Education has improved on its security measures at schools following the recent incident at two secondary schools on the island.

Director of Education Clare Browne told state media that following allegations that a student at Clare Hall secondary school had been in possession of a gun in school compound, the ministry has taken numerous steps to beef up security.

“In some schools, at least since the incident at Clear Hall, [secondary school] we have improved our security protocol there, inclusive of having hand-held metal detectors, and if you ever pass across Clear Hall now in the mornings, you see the security guards checking the students to ensure that they’re not bringing anything into the school compound that they should not be bringing,” Browne stated.

He added, “We don’t want people to be walking into schools when schools are in session. So, our focus is on having the physical security presence.”

Another security concern was the fencing of the Sir Novel Richards Academy following a violent incident at the.

It was reported that students from nearby Harrison Centre ABICE had entered the Sir Novel Richards Academy and got into a confrontation with students there.

That incident resulted in two students being charged with wounding and disorderly conduct by fighting.

“I’ve been assured that the fencing has been completed at St. Novelle Richards Academy. There were some gates that needed to be put on, and those were put on.” Our focus is on ensuring that our schools are properly fenced to prevent intrusion,” The Director of Education added.

“Our focus is also on ensuring that for the larger schools, we have at least three security guards during the school day for the full duration of the school day and a little beyond. And then having security guards at schools in the nights as well.”

“There are many schools now that can boast of 24-hour security with security guards,” Browne noted.

Meanwhile, as it relates to the installation of CCTV cameras at schools, Browne says it remains on the cards.