Add to My SourceSecurity | Send to a friend | Email me this article

Repton Preparatory School finds hidden benefits with Paxton Access Control system

Repton Preparatory School (also known as Foremarke School) has used a Paxton Access Control system, supplied by Norbain SD, to help improve secure access to classroom blocks.  The system is saving them time and money, and has also provided them with a new way to measure time and attendance.

Repton is a fully co-educational school with a strong boarding ethos and is home to 600 pupils.  Established 450 years ago, it has established a strong tradition of distinguished alumni in public life, sport and the arts.

Bursar John McGahan wanted to address the issue of access to the various buildings spread over the 66-acre site.  Because a public road runs through the grounds, there was an obvious issue with security that needed to be addressed.  All the buildings were secured with locks and keys with a system that was causing a number of problems.  Wolverhampton-based installers Spectre UK Ltd were called in to advise on the best way to tackle the issues.

They recommended an Access Control system based on Paxton Net2 Access Control.  "We regularly use the Net2 system for applications like this," says Steve Bonnell, Managing Director of Spectre UK Ltd.  "The system is very user-friendly so we knew the school would be able to start using it without any problems."

Mr McGahan is delighted with the results.  He can programme the opening and closing times of all the doors from his office so that students can have access when they need it.  Additionally, staff such as cleaners and workmen can be given key fobs for access out of hours and in the holidays.  "This not only means that they can get on with their work easily, but it also means that when they're in the building, the doors automatically lock, keeping them safe and secure," he says.

Spectre UK has long used Norbain as its supplier: "We use Norbain because we know we can rely on them to get the equipment to us when we need it," says Judie Clarke, Operations Manager of Spectre UK.  "It's also good to know that, should we need any advice on equipment or technical issues, the team is on-hand and ready to help us out."

Although the Paxton system was initially installed purely for security purposes, Mr McGahan has found an additional, highly useful application.  "We currently have a clocking in/out machine that is rather outdated and difficult to maintain.  The Net2 software allows us to record time and attendance with the use of the fobs, so we're going to switch to using this in the very near future."

Spectre UK has certainly impressed the Bursar.  "They've given us an excellent service," he explains.  "They are extremely reliable and respond immediately to any questions we have.  There's no question we'll be using their expertise in the upcoming expansion."

As a final thought, he concludes: "As we hoped, the system is saving us time and money, but it's also bought with it real peace of mind - we know now that all buildings are secured exactly as they should be, while still allowing everyone to get on with their day to day business."