School Lockdown Guidance Updated Following New DfE Martyn's Law Guidance

The Department for Education (DfE) published new guidance on Martyn's Law in education on 3rd November 2026, providing an important opportunity for schools and academy trusts to review their security arrangements and emergency preparedness.

In response, Insight MSIG Ltd has updated its School Lockdown & Emergency Preparedness Policy, incorporating the latest guidance alongside existing safeguarding, health and safety, emergency planning and data protection requirements.

Why is this important?

Schools have a responsibility to provide a safe environment for pupils, staff and visitors. Although serious security incidents remain relatively uncommon, schools need clear, practical and proportionate procedures to respond effectively should an emergency occur.

The updated Insight guidance addresses:

• Lockdown and emergency procedures: Distinguishing between full and partial lockdown, invacuation, evacuation and shelter-in-place.

• Martyn's Law: Understanding the implications of the Terrorism (Protection of Premises) Act 2025 for educational establishments.

• Staff responsibilities: Ensuring everyone understands how to recognise threats, raise the alarm and respond appropriately.

• Safeguarding and SEND: Making appropriate arrangements for vulnerable pupils and those with additional needs.

• Training and exercises: Developing proportionate, risk-assessed arrangements without unnecessarily alarming pupils.

• Communications: Managing information provided to parents, emergency services and other relevant organisations.

• Recovery arrangements: Supporting pupils and staff following an incident and reviewing lessons learned.

Preparedness, not panic

Effective emergency planning is not about creating unnecessary fear. It is about ensuring that schools have sensible, workable arrangements that staff understand and can implement confidently.

Schools should also recognise that lockdown procedures are only one element of wider emergency planning and business continuity arrangements.

Updated guidance available

The revised Insight MSIG School Lockdown & Emergency Preparedness Policy – Version 3.1 (November 2026) is now available to schools supported by Insight MSIG. Schools are encouraged to review their existing procedures, particularly where policies have not been updated recently, and ensure that their arrangements reflect current guidance and the particular circumstances of their premises and pupils.

Steve Cullen Insight Management Services and Information Governance Ltd

Practical information governance, safeguarding and compliance support for schools and academy trusts.