Martyn’s Law & Protective Security – implications for education settings
Martyn’s Law and Protective Security
Martyn’s Law – formally the Terrorism (Protection of Premises) Act 2025 – is named in memory of Martyn Hett, one of the 22 people killed in the 2017 Manchester Arena bombing. The law introduces new duties to help reduce harm from terrorist attacks. All UK schools, including early years, primary, secondary and further education, are classed as ‘standard tier’ premises and have two years to prepare before enforcement begins in 2027.
Schools will need to:
- Appoint a ‘responsible person’ to oversee compliance,
- Register their premises with the Security Industry Authority (SIA), and
- Develop proportionate procedures such as lockdown and evacuation plans.
To prepare, schools can:
- Identify a suitable responsible person
- Review and test emergency procedures
- Access the free ACT for Education e-learning module
- Audit visitor access and site security
Many of these steps already feature in the Department for Education’s Protective Security and Preparedness for Education Settings guidance. This non‑statutory guidance offers practical templates, SEND considerations and low‑cost strategies that align closely with Martyn’s Law.
Premises and events do not need to hire consultants or third party companies to comply with Martyn’s Law. Government guidance will help you understand how to meet the relevant duties to make informed decisions without external support. (Note that the Home Office and NaCTSO do not endorse any third-party products or providers.)
Protective Security and Preparedness for Education Settings can be found here:
https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/protective-security-and-preparedness-for-education-settings
A fact sheet about Martyn’s Law can be found here:
https://homeofficemedia.blog.gov.uk/2025/04/03/martyns-law-factsheet
Further guidance is also available at:
https://safeblog.lgfl.net/martyns-law-how-can-schools-prepare
https://www.protectuk.police.uk/martyns-law
ACT for Education e-learning module
https://www.protectuk.police.uk/group/99
Watch the Home Office’s short explainer animation to help you understand the scope and requirements of Martyn’s Law:
https://www.protectuk.police.uk/news-views/watch-new-martyns-law-explainer-video