500 CCTV cameras in States schools

Friday 07 October 2016

There are 500 security cameras installed in States primary and secondary schools.

The information has been revealed following a Freedom of Information request - the States are responsible for 24 primary schools and seven secondary schools, which means the number of cameras per establishment averages out at around 15.

For security reasons – the department say it would “likely prejudice law enforcement activities” – they’re not revealing how many cameras are in specific schools, or where the cameras are.

What they do say though is “CCTV placement across all States of Jersey schools ranges from foyers and entrance doors, car parks, corridors and stairwells, playgrounds and playing fields, and walkways.”

The department go on to say: “schools are advised to follow Data Protection (Jersey) Law 2005 guidelines and any guidance produced by the Information Commissioner.

“Access to the footage recorded by CCTV cameras is limited to site managers, caretakers, head teachers or members of the school’s senior leadership team across all States of Jersey schools.

“Footage is retained for between 30 days and three months.”