Martyn’s Law and Education Estates: What Schools Need to Know
Introduction
In April 2025, the Terrorism (Protection of Premises) Act, commonly known as Martyn’s Law, received Royal Assent, marking a major step forward in the UK’s approach to public safety. Named in memory of Martyn Hett, one of the 22 victims of the 2017 Manchester Arena bombing, the law seeks to ensure that all public venues and organisations are better prepared to prevent and respond to terrorist attacks.
While its origins lie in the world of large entertainment venues, the law also extends to educational establishments, from nurseries and primary schools to colleges and universities. For schools and trusts, understanding what Martyn’s Law means in practice is essential for planning ahead.
Where Education Fits Within Martyn’s Law
The UK Government has confirmed that early years, primary, secondary, and further education settings will fall under the Standard Tier of Martyn’s Law — even if more than 800 people are present.
This special provision recognises that schools already operate under stringent safeguarding and security frameworks such as the Prevent Duty and Keeping Children Safe in Education.
In short what this means is:
All schools and FE colleges remain in the Standard Tier.
Universities and higher education institutions are not covered by this special rule and may fall under the Enhanced Tier if their capacity exceeds 800.
What Schools Need to Do to Comply
The Standard Tier of Martyn’s Law requires schools to take proportionate, practical steps to ensure preparedness. These obligations focus on awareness, planning, and accountability rather than expensive physical measures.
Staff Training
All staff should receive terrorism awareness training, such as the Home Office’s ACT Awareness e-learning, (once it becomes available).
Training should help staff:
Recognise suspicious behaviour
Understand how to respond to an incident
Follow evacuation or lockdown procedures calmly and effectively
A Written Preparedness Plan
Schools must have a documented plan detailing how they would respond in the event of a terrorist attack.
This should outline:
Evacuation and lockdown procedures
Internal and external communication channels
Roles and responsibilities during an incident
Coordination with emergency services
Appoint a Responsible Person
Each school or trust should nominate a Responsible Person to oversee compliance. This is often the Headteacher, Estates Manager, or Safeguarding Lead. Their role includes ensuring the plan is maintained, staff are trained, and procedures are regularly reviewed.
Proportionate Security Measures
Martyn’s Law does not require airport-style security but neither is it a padlock on the front door.
Instead, schools are expected to demonstrate reasonable and proportionate preparedness, focusing on awareness, communication, and clear processes to protect staff and pupils if an incident occurs.
So What Happens if Schools Don’t Comply?
Although enforcement will initially be supportive and educational, Martyn’s Law will carry legal consequences once the duties come into force (expected around 2027, following a transition period).
Possible outcomes of non-compliance include:
Compliance notices and directions from the regulator (to be established under the Act)
Fines for persistent or wilful breaches
Potential criminal liability for the designated Responsible Person in serious cases
Reputational damage and scrutiny in the aftermath of any incident
The Home Office has stated that enforcement will focus on guidance and support, not punishment — particularly for schools that demonstrate willingness to comply and improve.
Practical Next Steps for Schools and Trusts
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To ensure Martyn’s Law compliance
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Many schools already have relevant plans under safeguarding and health and safety. These should be reviewed to ensure alignment with any new requirements.
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Staff should be adequately trained in accordance with the wall. Official ACT Awareness materials will become available and Government guidance will be published during the implementation period.
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Emergency plans such as lock down procedures should be updated to include terrorist-related scenarios.
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Most schools will already conduct regular lock down drills however following review of the procedures these should be maintained to ensure confidence in procedures and readiness should the worst happen.
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The responsible person and key stakeholders should continue to monitor guidance being released throughout 2025 & 2026 to ensure compliance of their school estates.
Final Thoughts
Martyn’s Law isn’t about instilling fear, it’s about empowering schools to protect their communities.
By embedding proportionate measures and building staff confidence, schools can create safer learning environments while maintaining their open, welcoming ethos.
Taking early steps now will ensure that, when the law becomes fully operational, your school or trust is ready — compliant, confident, and prepared.