TEACHERS in East Lancashire may receive specialist security training as part of a £22million government scheme designed to protect staff and pupils in schools.

Local education authorities at Lancashire County Council and Blackburn with Darwen Council will receive almost £650,000 in April to help introduce extra security and safety measures such as personal security training, high perimeter fencing, closed-circuit television systems and entry access control devices.

Under the scheme, Lancashire will receive £570,000 and Blackburn with Darwen a further £75,000.

The news, announced today, comes less than two weeks after the headteacher of a Hyndburn secondary school was attacked with a piece of wood when a gang of youths stormed into the school.

Police were called in and continue to investigate after Allan Grey, of Moorhead High, Accrington, suffered minor injuries and concussion.

Simon Jones, who represents Blackburn and Darwen in the National Union of Teachers, said: "I would heartily welcome any money being spent on improving security and safety for our members who come under threat because violence is becoming an increasing problem in schools. "I would like to see even more done though because this money is not going to go an awful long way."

County education chairman Hazel Harding said: "The county council's first priority is the safety of its pupils and staff and it is very important that they can learn and teach in an environment in which they feel secure.

"We will discuss with schools where funds are most needed and allocate the money accordingly.

"Security projects already undertaken include the installation of security fencing, CCTV and entry access control systems, and today's announcement will make a further contribution to ensuring our classrooms are a safe place to be."

Schools minister Jacqui Smith said: "The £22million builds on the £66million that has already been made available for school security between 1997 and 1998.

"We believe that a secure school where pupils, teachers and parents feel safe and can concentrate their efforts on the day to day working of teaching and learning will lead to higher standards.

"One local authority has used money to set up its own security awareness diploma course which includes being aware of dangers, risk management and personal safety." Blackburn with Darwen education chairman Bill Taylor said: "This is good news and will help go towards funding extra security measures in our schools. By the end of April 2000 every school in the borough will have had security improvements.

"In the main these are door entry systems that prevent just anyone walking into school when children and staff are in lessons.

"Extra funding has been provided by the council to help fund these measures and is a demonstration of our commitment to improve security in schools."

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