12 September 2025 - Yondr and Metal Detectors

12th September 2025

Dear Parents and Carers,

Introduction of Metal Detectors at Orchard School Bristol

At Orchard School Bristol, the safety and wellbeing of our students and staff is our highest priority and this was one of the reasons that we introduced the use of Yondr, to securely keep phones out of the hands of students throughout the school day. In addition, there have been incidents during exams where students are found to be in possession of a phone which has resulted in disqualification. As part of our ongoing commitment to maintaining a secure and supportive learning environment, we are writing to inform you that we will be introducing the use of metal detectors (in the form of handheld wands) on school premises.

Legal Basis and Government Guidance

The use of metal detectors in schools is fully supported by the Department for Education (DfE) and is underpinned by the Education Act 1996 (Section 550ZA). According to official government guidance:

“Schools can require pupils to undergo screening by a walk-through or hand-held metal detector (arch or wand) even if they do not suspect them of having a weapon. If a pupil refuses, they may be searched by a member of staff.”
— DfE Guidance on Searching, Screening and Confiscation[1]

This means that schools are legally permitted to use metal detectors without needing to suspect a particular student of wrongdoing.

How It Will Work

Students may be asked to be scanned with a handheld metal detector to establish if they have a prohibited item on them.

If the detector is activated, a search may be requested, which will require the permission of the Headteacher and notification of the parent/guardian.

All searches will be conducted respectfully and in line with safeguarding protocols and our Trust policy.

Students will never be asked to remove any clothing other than outerwear (e.g. coats or jackets).

Parents will be informed if any prohibited item is found.

Why We Are Taking This Step

This initiative is part of a broader strategy to:

Promote a culture of safety and responsibility.

Deter the carrying of banned items.

Support our behaviour and safeguarding policies.

Safeguard the examination environment

We understand that this may be a new experience for some students, and we will ensure that the process is explained clearly and carried out with sensitivity.

Your Support

We appreciate your support in helping us maintain a safe and respectful school environment. If you have any questions or concerns about this change, please do not hesitate to contact me directly via info@orchard.tila.school

Thank you for your continued partnership.

Yours sincerely,

Phil Edmonds
Assistant Headteacher: Behaviour and Safeguarding