MES Systems has provided a complete fire and security system installation for Fullhurst Community College in Leicester. Delivering a fully integrated solution across its two sites, including CCTV, intruder alarm, vape detection systems, automated gates, and access control. Designed specifically for the education sector, improving safety, security and site management for both staff and students.
Our approach ensured the system was practical, cost-effective, and future-proof, with the flexibility to expand as the schools’ needs evolve. We delivered a solution tailored to the demands of a busy school environment.
MES Systems provides trusted school security systems in Leicestershire and across the Midlands
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Case Study
About Fullhurst Community College
Fullhurst Community College is an 11–16 comprehensive school in Braunstone, south-west Leicester, serving around 1,500 students across two separate sites.
In any school environment, the safety of students, staff, and visitors is a top priority. With multiple teaching spaces and staff areas across both campuses, the school needed a security solution that was effective, practical, and easy to manage.
The challenge of securing a busy multi-site school
The goal was to provide the school with a practical solution across both Leicestershire sites that improved security and student management. The site included multiple buildings and entry points, so it needed a solution that would:
- Strengthen security across the full site
- Improve control over who can access key areas
- Reduce reliance on impractical physical keys
- Support the safety of students, staff, and visitors
- Provide better visibility across internal and external areas
- Allow for future expansion as the school’s requirements change
- Remain practical in a busy educational setting
A complete school security and fire protection solution
Working closely with the school over several years, MES Systems has designed and installed a fully integrated fire and security solution across both sites.
Access Control: We installed a Paxton Net2 access control system across approximately 121 doors, helping the school manage movement around the site more effectively. The system included proximity readers, card access, and emergency fire release integration, making it both secure and simple to use.
CCTV System: To improve site-wide monitoring, we installed approximately 140 CCTV cameras covering both external areas and internal communal spaces.
Intruder Alarm and Perimeter Protection: We installed a comprehensive intruder alarm system, along with automated vehicle and pedestrian gates, to strengthen perimeter security and help control access at key entry points.
Fire Safety Systems: As part of the wider life safety package, MES Systems installed a fire alarm system, alongside a public address system, disabled refuge system, and VESDA aspiration system. These measures were designed to support a fast, coordinated response in the event of an emergency.
Vape Detection and Safety Monitoring: The school also required a modern safeguarding solution to help address vaping and related behavioural concerns. We installed a vape detection system capable of sending real-time alerts, allowing staff to respond quickly to incidents and support a safer school environment.
Lockdown Alarm: To strengthen emergency preparedness, we also included a lockdown alarm system, helping the school improve its response procedures in critical situations.
Results of the school security and fire system installation
The installations have provided a safe, secure, and easier-to-manage environment across both sites. By combining strong perimeter protection, controlled access, advanced monitoring, and enhanced emergency systems, the solution supports both student safety and the smooth day-to-day running of the school. Automated gates have strengthened perimeter security, while the fire alarm, lockdown alarm, and public address systems have improved emergency preparedness. Real-time vape detection alerts also provide an additional layer of safeguarding support.
The new access control system, using proximity readers and a single multi-use access card, gives the school greater control over who can enter sensitive and high-traffic areas, while removing the practical challenges of traditional keys. Across both campuses, extensive CCTV coverage has improved visibility, supporting security, safeguarding, behaviour monitoring, and helping to reduce damage and disruption.
Education blog posts
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Gate Safety for Schools: A Practical Guide for Headteachers/Site Teams
Richard Morgan | September 3, 2025
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Martyn’s Law & Schools: Why use a Distinct Lockdown Alarm
Richard Morgan | November 6, 2025
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Keep Students and Staff Safe with Comprehensive Fire and Security
Richard Morgan | June 6, 2024
Frequently asked questions
What fire and security systems were installed for the school?
What fire and security systems were installed for the school?
MES Systems installed access control, CCTV, a fire alarm system, intruder alarms, vape detection, automated gates, perimeter protection, a lockdown alarm, a public address system, a disabled refuge system, and a VESDA aspiration system.
Why are integrated fire and security systems important for schools?
Why are integrated fire and security systems important for schools?
Integrated fire and security systems help schools improve safeguarding, control access, monitor important areas, strengthen perimeter security, and respond quickly in emergencies. When connected, systems such as fire alarms, lockdown alarms, access control, gates, and barriers can work together to support a coordinated, effective response and create a safer school environment.
Are schools required to have a lockdown alarm?
Are schools required to have a lockdown alarm?
No, there is no specific requirement for schools to have a dedicated lockdown alarm. However, under Martyn’s Law, schools must be able to communicate their lockdown procedures clearly. Using a distinct lockdown alarm with voice messages is an effective and practical way to meet this requirement. Learn more about Martyn's Law and Schools
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