Closed-circuit television

Closed-circuit television (CCTV) is the use of video cameras to send a signal to a certain place, on a small set of monitors.

Using CCTV

Big Brother is watching you…in your school!

CCTV (acronym for Closed-Circuit Television) is the use of video cameras to transmit images from covered-camera places to a limited set of monitors.

Since the 1970s, the British government has invested £20 million, to be exact, in CCTV cameras. In all primary and secondary schools, classrooms are now televised and equipped with cameras which monitor continuously pupils and teachers by the security staff. CCTV cameras are installed at strategic locations and provide much needed support to teachers. Nowadays schools tend to get bigger, thus CCTV cameras enable teachers and security staff to see and then control what is happening in live. In our opinion, like Britain, we believe that our school should also install CCTV cameras. As children deserve the best working conditions in a school environment, the CCTV cameras furnish a useful technology support. A large part (50 %) of a child’s day is spent at school. As a result, children are exposed to violence, bullying and influence from others undisciplined pupils. Therefore, it is a good reason to be monitored. More than an intrusion into private life, CCTV cameras prevents violent behavior and prohibits children from breaking the rules. As CCTV discourages children, monitoring is a good mean of persuasion. After a few weeks, this safety device will be forgotten by the children who continue to live as before the installation. However, when one considers the positive consequences, monitoring appears to be an obvious choice in the purpose of protecting children and even adults.

In schools, the accusations are many and it is also difficult to determine if the children involved are guilty or innocent. Hence, CCTV cameras overcome this problem and resolve arguments, parents and teachers are now able to know the accurate truth. CCTV cameras improve concentration and productivity from both teachers and pupils who feel much supported. The cameras can be used by teachers to show good practice to colleagues and give feedback. As children are in a position where they are not going to be robbed or harassed, they feel more safe and confident. Consequently, CCTV cameras improve educational standards of a school. For instance, Harrop Fold is a school that has installed cameras and microphones in its classrooms.

In the last four years, the percentage of pupils achieving GCSEs in this school with grades of A-C has grown from 18% to 52%. Even though, schools should not have to resort to technology to fight bullying and bad behavior, children are becoming more and more out of control and violence had considerably increased in schools within the past few years. As a consequence, CCTV in schools is vital. It protects teachers and students alike, ensuring that those who perpetrate unpleasant acts can be prosecuted and punished. To conclude, CCTV cameras provide appropriate solutions when using for lesson observation or pupil discipline.