Education

Hands-free access for disabled children at a UK college

By Amelia Kwok | 3 September 2008

National Star College is a registered charity and national independent specialist college that helps young disabled students to achieve their potential through innovative programmes of education and independence training.

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This year is an important one for the college. As well as celebrating its 40th anniversary the college has also launched the Star Appeal, a campaign aimed at raising £15.4 million for an ambitious development project. As part of the plan, Gerald Noble, Projects Engineer and Lynette Barrett Residential Services Manager decided that college security also needed upgrading. Mark Hone Director of Stroud Alarms, Nailsworth, Gloucetershire was brought in to advise. From their discussion, it was clear that the access control system would require hands-free capability.

“We wanted a system which would improve security while providing convenient access for all. The Net2 system recommended by Mark appeared to be very easy to manage, could expand with our needs and had the added advantage of offering contactless hands-free access,” said Barrett.

Initially, Net2 was installed at one building for easy evaluation. “From the beginning it was clear the system had a positive effect – making access easier for students and staff alike,” said Barrett. As a result, Net2 now controls about 30 doors at three of the five residencies.

Many doors in the residencies have been hands free enabled with automatic door openers. This was a necessity so that every individual would benefit from the system.

Hone comments, “Net2 hands-free is the easiest way to offer convenient access essential for the college. Some of the students attach their hands-free tokens to their wheelchairs and the PROXIMITY readers pick up the signal and unlock the door as they approach. This removes manoeuvring into awkward positions to present tokens.”

The introduction of Net2 has meant that students aren’t so dependent on staff to move around the college. “The Net2 system has increased privacy and made the students more independent - something they strive for and are proud of,” said Barrett.

“We’re looking after vulnerable young people and I want the environment to be as safe and secure as possible. Net2 has achieved this as well as giving students more freedom too,”said Noble.