Security Screening for Schools: Designing Safer, More Resilient Education Buildings

Across Australia, schools are taking a fresh look at the role security screening plays in their buildings – and it’s no longer just about ticking a compliance box.

As climate risks increase and school campuses become more complex, screening is increasingly being seen as part of the bigger picture. From bushfire resilience and fall prevention through to airflow, comfort and sustainability, well-designed screening solutions are helping schools create safer, healthier learning environments without compromising openness or design intent.

A changing approach to security screening in education

Until recently, security screens were often added late in the design process, typically to meet a specific requirement such as fall prevention or asset protection. Today, that approach is shifting.

Architects, builders and education providers are now bringing screening into conversations much earlier, recognising the role it can play in overall building performance. Rather than being treated as an add-on, screening is being considered alongside façades, glazing and ventilation strategies – particularly in regions exposed to bushfire, cyclone or extreme heat risk.

It reflects a broader mindset shift in education design, where safety, sustainability and student wellbeing are increasingly viewed as interconnected rather than separate priorities.

Designing for different climates and campus conditions

Australia’s diverse climate means schools face very different challenges depending on where they’re located – and security screening is playing a key role in responding to those conditions.

In cyclone-prone northern regions, screening helps protect windows and doors from windborne debris while still allowing passive cooling through cross-ventilation. This is particularly important in hot, humid environments, where airflow can significantly improve comfort without relying heavily on mechanical cooling.

In urban and metropolitan areas, especially on multi-level campuses, screening is often specified to meet fall prevention requirements. Importantly, modern systems are designed to feel open and unobtrusive, maintaining natural light and ventilation rather than closing spaces off.

Bushfire resilience and Shelter-in-Place buildings

In bushfire-prone parts of Australia, particularly across Victoria, screening has taken on an even more critical role.

Fire-rated screening systems are now being incorporated into school Shelter-in-Place buildings, designed to provide last-resort protection during emergency events. These systems help reduce exposure to ember attack and radiant heat, while also delivering everyday benefits such as durability and ventilation.

With bushfire seasons becoming longer and more intense, these solutions are helping schools meet tighter regulatory requirements while also building resilience into their facilities for the long term.

Supporting student wellbeing through better building performance

Safety is essential, but it’s only one part of creating a positive learning environment. Research continues to show that airflow, glare control and thermal comfort all influence student focus, engagement and overall wellbeing.

Because of this, security screening is now being assessed not just for strength and compliance, but for how it helps stabilise classroom conditions and reduce energy demand. When integrated thoughtfully, screening can support more comfortable spaces and reduce reliance on artificial heating and cooling.

Education projects putting performance-led screening into practice

These ideas are already being applied across both new school builds and refurbishment projects.

Catherine McAuley Catholic College in Medowie, NSW offers a strong example of how screening can be integrated into aluminium façade systems across elevated classroom wings. The outcome is a campus that balances safety, thermal performance and clean architectural lines, while supporting the school’s long-term sustainability goals.

In regional Western Australia, Australind Senior High School adopted a similar performance-led approach as part of a major refurbishment focused on resilience and student comfort. Installed while the campus remained operational, the system helps deliver improved airflow, daylight and security – particularly valuable in a climate known for seasonal extremes.

Looking ahead: screening as a long-term design decision

With updates to the National Construction Code and tighter requirements in bushfire zones, schools are increasingly specifying security screening earlier in the design process and treating it as a permanent, integrated feature rather than a retrofit solution.

As investment in education infrastructure continues across Australia, screening is being redefined. It’s no longer just a security measure – it’s a strategic design element that supports safety, sustainability and student wellbeing.

For schools planning new buildings or upgrades, security screening has become an important part of designing learning environments that are resilient, adaptable and fit for the future.