Commercial Fencing and Gates for Schools, Colleges & Universities: 5 ways to balance aesthetics with high-security

Innovative security solutions for schools and colleges

When it comes to keeping schools safe, it’s a big deal for everyone involved — administrators, parents, and the community. But who says safety measures have to make a school look like a fortress? Thanks to some pretty smart advances in fencing technology and design, there are ways to keep schools secure without sacrificing that friendly, welcoming vibe.

Schools and educational campuses have a range of fencing and gates options available to them that balance aesthetics with security. From trusty steel mesh or palisade solutions and automated steel security gates with crest detailing and gold gilding; to reflective acoustic fencing for noise reduction; and high-tech systems with security and access control. 

With so many options on the market, and various different types of space in and around schools and educational campuses you often need a range of solutions rather than a one-size-fits-all approach. So, what commercial fencing and gate solutions are available on the market, and how do you balance style with security? Let’s dive into how schools can strike this perfect balance with some clever and stylish options.

Innovative Security Solutions for Schools and Educational Facilities

When it comes to keeping schools safe, it’s a big deal for everyone involved — administrators, parents, and the community. But hey, who says safety measures have to make a school look like a fortress? Thanks to some pretty smart advances in fencing and gate technology and design, there are ways to keep schools secure without sacrificing that friendly, welcoming vibe. Let’s dive into how schools can strike this perfect balance with some clever and stylish fencing options.

Finding the Middle Ground Between Safety and Style

The main aim of school fencing and gates is to keep the bad out and the good in, but that doesn’t mean it has to be all doom and gloom. Today’s solutions are about blending seamlessly into the school or facilities’ look while packing a punch security-wise.

What’s On the Market?

Traditionally, schools have leaned on trusty powder-coated, galvanized steel fencing. It’s tough, it lasts, and guess what? It doesn’t have to be boring. It can be jazzed up in a range of colors that match the school’s style or spirit, and comes in various designs tailored for different needs. From sturdy sports fencing that can take a hit, to elegant ball-top designs that look sharp and discourage climbers, and even smart self-levelling bow-top or vertical bar railings, there’s something for every corner of the campus.

Other cool materials in the mix include wrought iron, which brings a touch of class with its robust and refined look, and tempered glass — perfect for maintaining a sense of openness and safety, especially in areas where visibility is key.

Tech-Savvy Fencing and Gates

Getting a bit techy can really up your fencing game. How about smart fences that alert your security team if someone’s trying to sneak over or damage the fence? Or access controls that make sure only the right folks can get in, using things like key cards or even fingerprint scanning?

It’s All in the Details

The design of the fence can do more than just secure an area; it can shout out your school’s identity. Why not throw in some custom design elements that reflect your school’s logo or mascot? Picking the right colors also helps make sure the fence looks like part of the team rather than just a necessary outsider.

And don’t forget about greenery! Planting some bushes or flowers around the fence not only beautifies the space but can also act as a natural barrier. It’s a win-win: more beauty, more security.

Catering to Different Needs

Whether it’s a buzzing sports area that needs fences that can handle the action, or quieter parts of the campus where you can go with something a bit more decorative, galvanised steel fencing is super adaptable. Anti-climb options are great for perimeter areas where keeping intruders out is key, while ornate designs can make less exposed areas still feel secure without looking too stern.

If you’re looking to reduce noise levels and mitigate against the effects of noise pollution – maybe from a busy road – then Reflective Acoustic Barriers are a great option. Made from timber, they sit high and look nice too, while creating that safe, secure, anti-climb environment.

Keeping it Community Friendly

Remember, the part of the fence that faces the world is what people see and interact with. Friendly designs that include community notice boards or spots for public art can make the fence seem less like a barrier and more like a part of the community fabric.

In the end, making sure our schools are safe is crucial, but that doesn’t mean they can’t also be inviting and good-looking. With the right mix of traditional and modern fencing options, schools can protect their students and staff while still feeling like a warm, welcoming place to learn and grow.

New Forest Fencing and Gates manufacture and install a range of specialist fencing, and will always work with you to spec your fencing and gates against your requirements – whether that’s bespoke fabrication of crests or logos in the gates, or multiple applications from sports-based MUGA fencing, to automated and tech-savvy entrance gates.

Read our case study on the St. Mark’s school installation here.