The networked system, integrated with alarms and advanced building control functions (such as automated window opening), also incorporates an earlier, analogue system which had been installed in the older school buildings.
Ahead of the opening of the new wing – in Spring 2008 – 10 Panasonic domes were installed in key communal areas: in corridors, at exit points, in the library and around the outside of the building.
Developments in IP CCTV have been of particular benefit in the education sector, says IC2’s MD Andrew Wheelan, with lower costs and greater capability allowing schools to do much more to protect themselves.
Evolving technology
“Schools face ongoing problems in terms of vandalism, intrusion and theft. In many ways it has been an uphill struggle for them, but now CCTV technology has evolved to the point where it can really help,” he says. “With IP-based systems you can locate cameras anywhere along the network, meaning you can get coverage of areas where it wasn’t previously affordable. You can view images from any location on the internet, and you can see much more quickly if an attack is taking place.”
Even before the new facility at Sheen had opened, the cameras had already started to pay for themselves – culprits who caused GB pound 500 worth of damage to a new set of doors were successfully identified, and the costs of repair were recouped (“they had assumed the cameras weren’t yet working”).
The Sheen school has a particular challenge to address, in that its grounds incorporate well-equipped sporting facilities that are open for public use out of school hours.
