At Todd Research, our mission is to create safer environments through cutting-edge security technology. One recent success story comes from Barking and Dagenham College, where the TR360PRO+ search pole has been instrumental in maintaining a safe and secure atmosphere for staff and students alike.

The Challenge

In recent years, educational institutions across the UK have faced growing concerns over safety, particularly with an increase in incidents involving weapons. News reports have highlighted a worrying trend of knife crimes in and around schools, posing a significant threat to the well-being of students and staff. For instance:

  • In June 2024, figures obtained by The Independent showed police forces received 738 reports of people carrying knives or sharp instruments in schools between January and December 2023.
  • In October this year, a teenage girl from Ditton Park Academy was arrested after a fellow student was hospitalised following a knife incident.
  • The Office for National Statistics reports that knife-enabled crime recorded by the police in year ending March 2024 increased by 4% (50,510 offences) compared with year ending March 2023 (48,409 offences).

Against this backdrop, Barking and Dagenham College sought proactive measures to address these challenges and ensure a secure learning environment.

The Solution

The college partnered with Todd Research to implement the TR360PRO+ search pole – a state-of-the-art detection tool designed to identify concealed weapons and metallic items. The TR360PRO+ is non-invasive, quick to operate, and delivers high levels of accuracy, making it ideal for environments such as schools.

How It Works

The TR360PRO+ employs advanced detection technology to scan individuals discreetly and effectively. Its ease of use allows staff to integrate it seamlessly into their daily operations, ensuring that safety checks cause minimal disruption to students’ routines.

The TR360PRO+ search pole operates on a similar principle, using sophisticated ferromagnetic detection technology to identify threats. Unlike conventional metal detectors, it focuses specifically on ferrous metals, such as those found in blades and firearms. This makes it highly sensitive to the kinds of threats most likely to pose risks in educational settings while avoiding false positives from everyday items. With its intuitive interface and portable design, the TR360PRO+ provides an effective and flexible solution for dynamic safety needs.

The Results

Since its implementation, the TR360PRO+ has:

  • Boosted confidence among staff and students, knowing there’s a robust system in place to deter and detect threats. Staff members have reported feeling more secure in their daily operations, while students appreciate the added peace of mind.
  • Created a visible deterrent against bringing weapons onto campus, significantly reducing the likelihood of incidents. The presence of the TR360PRO+ has been acknowledged as a clear statement of the college’s commitment to safety.
  • Enhanced the college’s reputation as a forward-thinking institution prioritising safety, attracting positive attention from the broader community and setting a benchmark for other educational institutions.

Client Feedback

Tony Cave, Estates & Facilities Operations Manager at Barking and Dagenham College commented “The TR360PRO+ has been a game-changer for us, in that it’s a mobile versatile unit and quite conspicuous. It’s not just about detecting threats; it’s about creating an environment where everyone feels safe and valued. Staff have reported feeling more at ease during the school day, knowing that this tool is in place to safeguard them and the students. Students have remarked on the positive atmosphere created by visible safety measures, fostering a greater sense of trust and community”.

Savla Hiten, Deputy Principal Finance & Resources, stated “Todd Research provided exceptional support throughout our decision-making process. They went above and beyond by offering us the opportunity to trial the TR360PRO+ before making a purchase. This hands-on experience was invaluable, allowing us to thoroughly evaluate the product’s features and performance in real-world conditions. As a result, we were able to confidently determine that the TR360PRO+ was the perfect solution to meet our specific needs.”

Conclusion

In today’s challenging landscape, schools and colleges must stay ahead of potential security risks. By adopting the TR360PRO+, Barking and Dagenham College has demonstrated how proactive safety measures can foster a positive and secure educational environment.

For more information on how Todd Research can help enhance safety at your institution, visit our website or contact our team today.