Martyn’s Law: What Schools, Colleges & Universities Need to Know

Martyn’s Law – officially the Terrorism (Protection of Premises) Act 2025 – is coming, and it will fundamentally change how educational institutions approach safety and security. With full implementation expected by April 2027, schools, colleges, and universities need to act now to understand their responsibilities and prepare effectively.

Martyn’s Law isn’t just about physical security – it’s about planning, preparation, and protecting lives.

Who in Education Will Be Affected?

Martyn’s Law applies to any educational setting where people gather, but the rules differ depending on the type of institution:

Early Years, Primary Schools, Secondary Schools & Further Education Colleges

• Schools accomodating more than 200 people fall under a “standard tier” of duties, even if large assemblies or events bring many people together.
• The emphasis is on proportionate planning and preparedness, not heavy-duty infrastructure.
• Schools should focus on:
  • Lockdown, invacuation and evacuation procedures
  • Emergency communication plans
  • Staff training for crisis response
• Even smaller schools who fall outside the scope (less than 200 people) benefit from documenting basic procedures.

Higher Education Premises

• Higher Education premises may fall under standard or enhanced tier, depending on campus size and student numbers.
• Enhanced tier requirements apply to premises where 800 or more people may reasonably be expected to be present, and may include:
  • Formalised risk assessments tailored to each site
  • Appointment of a Designated Senior Individual to oversee compliance
  • Detailed documented emergency and security plans
  • Potential for additional security measures like CCTV, controlled access points, or monitoring, depending on risk

Key Requirements Under Martyn’s Law

Martyn’s Law focuses on practical, risk-based measures to protect people, rather than turning educational institutions into fortresses. Key requirements include:

• Risk Assessment
  Understand the specific threats to your site and the potential impact.
• Emergency Preparedness Plans
  Document procedures for lockdowns, evacuations, and invacuation.
• Staff Training and Awareness
  Ensure staff know their roles during a crisis and can act quickly.
• Proportionate Security Measures
  Implement safeguards that match the scale and risk level of your institution.

Start now – documenting and practising these procedures today can save time and stress later.

Why Acting Now Matters

Martyn’s Law isn’t just another policy, it will be a legal obligation. Waiting until the law comes into force could leave schools and universities scrambling to comply, potentially putting staff, students, and visitors at risk.

By preparing in advance, institutions can:

• Reduce vulnerabilities
• Strengthen emergency response
• Ensure compliance and avoid penalties
• Demonstrate commitment to staff, students, and parents

You can find further information on how Martyn’s Law will affect education settings here.

Learn More at Our Conference

To help you get ahead, we’re hosting a conference dedicated to Martyn’s Law, life safety, and compliance:

The Responsibility to Protect: Life Safety, Security & Compliance in 2026

🗓 25th March 2026
🎟️ Reserve your place now

What you’ll gain:

• Insights into Martyn’s Law and how it could affect your organisation
• Practical guidance to help comply with legal duties
• Real-world examples and expert advice on safety, security, and compliance