Introduction

From September 2026, all schools are required to have a lockdown policy and procedures aligned with Martyn’s Law. To ensure the safety of our children and staff, we will begin conducting lockdown drills with pupils. These drills are designed to prepare everyone in case a lockdown is ever necessary. Keeping our children safe remains our top priority. We kindly ask parents and carers to read the guidance below carefully, as working together is essential for the wellbeing of all.

Parent and Carer Guidance

Very occasionally, schools may need to go into a lockdown or partial lockdown to keep everyone safe. This could be due to a situation in the local area or on site that requires pupils and staff to remain inside the school buildings for a period of time. Please be assured that lockdowns are a precautionary safety measure, and the welfare of children and staff is always our highest priority.

How will I know if the school is in lockdown?

• If the school goes into a full or partial lockdown, we will communicate with parents and carers as soon as it is safe and practicable to do so.
• Communication will be sent via ClassDojo, as staff will continue to have access to their laptops during a lockdown. Messages will explain:

1.  that the school is in lockdown (full or partial)
2.  what this means for pupils
3.  what parents and carers need to do next

What should parents and carers do during a lockdown?

During a lockdown, please do not:

• Come to the school site - arriving at school could put you and others at risk and may interfere with emergency services.
• Telephone the school - phone lines must remain free so staff can communicate with emergency services, the Local Authority, and other agencies if needed.
• Use social media to speculate or share unverified information - this can increase anxiety and spread misinformation.

Instead, please:

• Wait for official communication from the school via ClassDojo
• Be reassured that children will be supervised at all times by school staff
• Trust that the school is following agreed safety procedures and advice from emergency services

Will I be able to collect my child?

Children will not be released during a lockdown unless this is directed by the emergency services and communicated clearly by the school. If it becomes necessary for children to be collected:

• Parents will be told when it is safe
• Clear instructions will be given about where and when collection will take place. Please do not attempt to collect your child unless instructed to do so.

How long does a lockdown last?

Every situation is different. A lockdown may last a short time or longer, depending on the nature of the incident. Parents and carers will be informed when the “all clear” has been given and normal arrangements resume.

Reassurance

• Lockdowns are extremely rare.
• Staff and pupils practise procedures so that everyone knows what to do.
• Decisions are made by senior leaders in consultation with emergency services.
• The school will always act calmly, proportionately and in the best interests of pupils.