CCTV Improves Security at Perth Academy High School

Scottish Communications have helped Perth & Kinross Council to take steps at Perth Academy to improve the security and safety of pupils in the school, through the introduction of a new CCTV system, which was officially launched this month.

Thirty one cameras have been positioned around the school, which cover playgrounds, corridors and stairways. The system was officially opened by Convener of Education & Children’s Services, Councillor Margo Lennie, who said:

“As part of life in a modern technological society we all benefit from CCTV installations. Such cameras make us feel safer in town, in shops and in car parks, so it is right that this safety should extend into schools. This is a very good system and gives excellent support to staff in keeping an eye on all pupils.”

Installed by Scottish Communications, the system uses both fixed cameras and the latest ‘speed dome’ cameras, which are able to pan, tilt and zoom. A control room has been set up and members of staff will have the task of operating and monitoring the system. The speed dome cameras allow the system operator to zoom into specific areas around the perimeter of the school and in the playground as and when required.

Inside the school, corridors are monitored by vandal-resistant cameras. Information gathered from the cameras can be monitored directly by the Head Teacher and a radio communication system has been established to allow the control room to communicate with teachers to react to any problems that the CCTV system has pinpointed.

Scottish Communication's Security Division Sales Manager, Brian Davidson, commented: “The school identified that they had specific security issues which they wished to tackle. We were approached to design a system which would assist them in the day to day running of an organised school. I believe that in partnership with the Council and with the Police, we have achieved these initial goals.”

Rector of Perth Academy, Charles Kiddie, said: “This system gives us full coverage of the entrances and exits to our building and the grounds. It operates 7 days a week, 24 hours a day and has already acted as a deterrent to potential intruders to the school. It will help staff prevent inappropriate behaviour and protect pupils from bullying. The installation has proved a worthwhile step in ensuring that pupils feel more secure in the school grounds, and this has addressed past criticisms of the school. Staff commitment and using the latest technology has made a difference.”

Head Boy at the Academy, Stewart Lamont, reported that “pupils have said they feel more secure knowing that the cameras are watching”, while the school’s Principal Teacher of Guidance, Jill Mackintosh, said “This initiative is part of our anti-bullying strategy in school and the CCTV cameras are helping to improve supervision in areas of the school where pupils felt vulnerable in the past.”

Councillor Lennie added: “The school will monitor use of the system so that the Council can learn the proven worth of such equipment and how it is best deployed for the benefit of pupils and staff.”

For further information contact: enquiries@scssecuritydesign.com