Ensuring the security of a school is extremely important. An effective fencing system plays a crucial role in this, i.e. safeguarding students and staff. In this blog, we’ll discuss school fencing, the types available, the right materials for the job, and more so that you can make an informed decision.
At Perimeter Solutions, we understand the importance of providing secure and durable fencing for educational institutions. Our expertise spans across primary schools, secondary schools, academies, Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND) schools, colleges, and universities. Speak to our fencing experts and discuss your requirements. Call 01474 702233 or email sales@perimeter-solutions.co.uk today.
Why Do Schools Need Fencing?
Fencing serves as the first line of defence for schools. It provides a clear boundary, preventing unauthorised access, abscondments, and ensuring student safety.
Secure fencing helps in managing access points and reducing the risk of vandalism, theft, and other security breaches. Additionally, a well-designed fence can create a safe and controlled environment for outdoor activities in UK schools.
“Need secure fencing solutions for your school? Perimeter Solutions works with the most trusted and secure fencing material suppliers on the market, installing certified products for hundreds of schools in the UK. Let us bring this quality and workmanship to you!”
Types Of Fencing Ideal For Schools In The UK
1. School Perimeter Fencing
School perimeter fencing is crucial for defining the boundaries of the school premises and deterring unauthorised access. Options like palisade fencing and welded wire mesh fencing are popular for their durability and security features.
Palisade fencing offers high security with its pointed tops, while mesh panels provide visibility and strength. Welded wire fencing combines a sleek appearance with robust security. These fences are designed to withstand tampering and weather conditions, which ensures a long-lasting barrier that protects students and staff.
If you are a SEN school, we also provide anti-climb 358 fencing, as recommended by the Department of Education.
2. School Playground Fencing
Playground fencing ensures that children are safe while playing outdoors, whilst segregating different play groups where playground management is required. It should be sturdy enough to withstand impacts and meet guidelines put in place by ROSPA to avoid possible injury.
Mesh panel fencing and bow top fencing are popular choices for playgrounds. Mesh panels offer great value for money and strength. Bow top fencing, with its rounded top, is designed to be safe and child-friendly, and when finished in bright colours can be a great way to enhance the schools brand identity.
3. School Gates And Access Control
Gates are critical for controlling access to the school. Automated gates with access control systems ensure that only authorised personnel can enter, and pupils cannot abscond. These gates can be integrated with card readers, intercoms, and security cameras for enhanced security. We even have systems that can use smartphones as access keys, reducing the time required to manage access and the costs associated with multiple fobs. A good access control system is essential for managing visitor entry and ensuring that the school premises remain secure. All our gate automation installs are carried out to meet GateSafe guidelines and will come with certificates of conformity.
4. School Sports Fencing, Netting, And MUGAs
Fencing for sports areas must be robust and flexible. It should contain balls and equipment within the area while protecting spectators. Rebound Weldmesh and sports netting are ideal for these applications.
Rebound welded mesh panel fencing provides durability and visibility, which makes it suitable for various sports for all age groups. Sports netting contains balls and prevents them from causing harm or damage outside the play area, improving neighbour relations and reducing the financial strain of replacing multiple balls each term!
Multi-Use Games Areas (MUGAs), tend to be 4 sided surrounds to play areas, perfect for football pitches, basketball pitches, and hockey pitches – sometimes with all 3 combined. The fencing can have goals and hoops built in. They are incredibly robust, designed to withstand the rigors of rough play, perfect for secondary schools and colleges.
Which Fencing Materials Are Ideal for Schools?
1. Metal Fencing
Steel fencing is known for its strength and durability. It offers a high level of security and can be customised to fit various design aesthetics. All steel fencing provided by Perimeter Solutions will be galvanised as a minimum, and powder-coated in a bright colour to match your school’s colour scheme. It is resistant to weather conditions, making it a long-lasting option for school fencing. Our galvanised and powder-coated steel fencing is designed to give a service life of at least 25 years.
2. Timber
Timber fencing is a cost-effective material for fencing, versatile in many applications. We ensure all our timber provided for schools has a smooth, splinter-free finish. It will always be pressure-treated for longevity, and will always come from sustainable sources. Timber fencing can come in the form of close board fencing, timber picket fencing and bin stores.
3. Composite Fencing
Composite fencing, or fencing made from recycled PVCU, creates a low maintenance, splinter free fence type. Ideally suited to low level fencing such as picket or post and rail. This is also sometimes known as plastic fencing and comes in a variety of colours.
4. Recycled PVCU Fencing
It’s similar to composite fencing but it uses recycled content to give an environmentally responsible fence.
3 Tips To Choose The Right Fencing For Your School
1. Assess Your Needs
Determine the primary purpose of the fencing. Is it for security, aesthetics, or both? Consider the specific areas that need fencing, such as perimeters, playgrounds, or sports facilities.
Understanding your needs will guide you in selecting the right type and material, ensuring the fencing meets your security requirements and enhances the overall environment of the school.
2. Consider Durability
Choose materials that can withstand local weather conditions and require minimal maintenance. Durable fencing options like galvanised and powder-coated metal fencing provide long-term security and cost savings. They ensure that the fencing remains effective and visually appealing over time, reducing the need for frequent repairs, maintenance or replacements.
3. Check Compliance
Ensure that the fencing complies with Secure by Design and RoSPA guidelines. This ensures the fencing meets established safety and security standards, which is important for your peace of mind.
Compliance with these guidelines enhances the security of the school and demonstrates a commitment to student safety and regulatory adherence. If you need further advice on meeting Secure by Design guidelines, you can contact Secure by Design to find your local Designing out Crime Officer (DOCO).
Conclusion
Choosing the right fencing is essential for the security and safety of a school. Trust our specialist team at Perimeter Solutions for bespoke fencing solutions that suit your school’s needs. Our team ensures the installation of high-quality, durable, and secure fencing that adheres to Secure by Design and RoSPA guidelines. Having completed 300 successful school fencing projects over the last few years, we have the expertise to ensure the best results for you. Contact us today to discuss your requirements.
