What a 24-Month Window Means for Schools Preparing for Martyn’s Law
Discover how to make the most of this period with practical steps for compliance and safeguarding.
What a 24-Month Window Means for Schools Preparing for Martyn’s Law
Discover how to make the most of this period with practical steps for compliance and safeguarding.
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Martyn’s Law is set to transform how schools prepare for and respond to emergencies.
It introduces a new legal requirement for proportionate, effective security procedures covering risk assessments, lockdown strategies, and site visibility.
The government has confirmed a 24-month implementation window, giving schools until April 2027 to prepare. But what does that really mean in practice?
And how can schools use this time wisely to strengthen their safeguarding strategies?
Why a 24-Month Window Matters
The government’s decision to introduce a two-year preparation period reflects two key priorities:
- Giving schools enough time to prepare without overwhelming daily operations
- Allowing the new regulatory body to establish clear processes for compliance, inspection, and support
It is designed to be a measured transition (not a rush) towards a more secure education sector where schools will be expected to show that they have reviewed risks, developed action plans, trained staff, and introduced systems capable of supporting an emergency response.
Templates, training, and guidance will be made available by the Home Office to help responsible bodies meet these new expectations.
Waiting Too Long Could Increase Pressure Later
Although two years may seem like plenty of time, schools face competing priorities every day and legislation like this does not come with extra funding.
Waiting too long can risk:
- Compressed timelines: With assessments, planning, procurement and training all needing to happen at once
- Limited supplier availability: As demand for lockdown systems, sign-in software, and safeguarding support grows closer to the deadline
- Staff fatigue: With major safeguarding updates introduced alongside curriculum, inspection and operational pressures
There is also the risk that if Ofsted or the SIA introduces security reviews earlier than expected, schools without visible action plans may face difficult conversations.
Building a Safer School Environment
Clear site visibility is a key part of effective safeguarding. Find out how modern visitor management systems like InVentry help schools know exactly who is on-site at all times, supporting both day-to-day safeguarding and emergency response planning.
Starting early means schools can avoid rushed decisions, secure better value from suppliers, and ensure that any system put in place genuinely enhances safety, not just ticks a box.
Helping Schools Build Security with Confidence
At Elementary Technology, we are already working with schools to prepare for the future:
- LOCAS Lockdown Alert Systems: Instant, site-wide emergency alerts distinct from the fire alarm system
- InVentry Sign-In Solutions: Real-time site visibility for staff, visitors and contractors
- Consultation and Planning Support: Helping leadership teams understand their next steps towards compliance
- Training and Ongoing Support: So that technology becomes a seamless part of your safeguarding strategy
Book a demonstration today to explore how we can help your school build a clear, confident roadmap towards Martyn’s Law compliance and a safer environment for everyone.
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