Make it mandatory to carry out security risk assessments in schools, and fund targeted security measures for schools. This could include handheld metal detectors, supervised bag checks and other screening measures to stop weapons entering school premises.

Parents and communities should not have to worry about children encountering weapons in school. In our view, rising violence among young people has raised serious concerns about safety in educational environments. We believe schools need resources so they can act when risks are identified. Preventative entrance screening, when used proportionately and with proper safeguarding, could help stop dangerous items entering schools and reduce risk of harm. Every child deserves to feel safe at school.