Martyn’s Law for schools and colleges
Schools stay in the standard tier however large they are. Most already have lockdown plans; the job is making them fit the new duty.
Schools, colleges and childcare settings where 200 or more people can be present are in the standard tier of Martyn’s Law regardless of size. They must notify the SIA and have evacuation, invacuation, lockdown and communication procedures. The Department for Education publishes specific guidance for education settings.
Is my school in scope?
If pupils, staff and visitors together can reasonably reach 200 at the same time, yes — which covers most primary and all secondary schools. Education settings are standard tier even above 800. Start with the Department for Education’s Martyn’s Law guidance for education settings.
What do the four procedures look like in a school?
Evacuation: a route and assembly point away from the threat, which may not be the fire assembly point on the front field.
Invacuation: bringing pupils in from the playground and fields quickly, and counting them.
Lockdown: which classrooms lock, blinds down, away from windows, and how the site perimeter is secured.
Communication: a distinct lockdown signal that is not the fire bell, and how parents are told — and told not to come to the gates.
Common gaps
- Lockdown signal the same as, or confused with, the fire alarm.
- No plan for break and lunch, when pupils are outside.
- Supply staff and visitors not told the procedure.
- Evening lettings of the hall not covered.
Before you pay anyone: the Home Office says premises do not need to buy consultancy to meet the standard tier, and its guidance, the SIA’s guidance and the ProtectUK training are free. Neither the Home Office nor the SIA endorses any provider, including us. The legal responsibility stays with the person responsible for the premises; we help with the work, we do not take the duty off you.
Want a second pair of eyes on it?
Send the venue type, the most people you would expect in at once, and how many sites you run. We will tell you which tier you look to be in and whether the free route is enough before quoting anything.
Common questions
Are schools in the enhanced tier if they have more than 800 pupils?
No. Schools and other education settings remain in the standard tier regardless of numbers.
Does the Department for Education have its own guidance?
Yes. The DfE publishes Martyn's Law guidance for education settings, which schools should follow alongside the SIA guidance.