By HANNAH RODGER

GLASGOW'S schools have been warned to tighten their security after inspectors were able to walk in without being asked for ID.

Assessors visited 11 teaching establishments - primary and secondary schools and nurseries - in unannounced inspections.

On eight of the visits inspectors were not asked for ID on arrival.

In two cases they were able to walk through the front doors and past reception without being challenged by staff.

Auditors found two of the facilities had been broken in to when they visited, and in one schools the culprits had got in to the head teacher's office as it had not been locked.

The report reads: "In one case, access to the Head Teacher's office was gained as it was unlocked at the time of the break-in.

"We identified at the time of the visit that the arrangements for locking individual officers when not in use could be improved."

Inspectors also criticised the fact visitors were not "appropriately escorted" in two venues, and on three of the visits some staff were not wearing ID passes.

During one visit, inspectors were able to walk from reception in to the main office unescorted.

In another incident they saw a contractor being given a map of the school and allowed to walk around alone while checking fire exits.

The findings were revealed in an internal audit report discussed by Glasgow City Council, which put forward five recommendations for improvement.

Three of the five have been classed as high priority, with urgent attention required by schools.

Inspectors said buildings, people and information inside the schools needs to be "appropriately secured" and have asked for immediate action to improve security.

Staff have been advised they must show their ID badges at all times, and challenge visitors for ID before allowing them in to schools.

Doors to offices are to be locked overnight, and sensitive documentation must be stored securely, according to the report.

Security following a change in staff was also criticised by inspectors, who found that door keypad codes were not changed at one school after a member of staff had left.

They also found at one school staff were not asked to hand back their photo ID after leaving.

Glasgow City council's education bosses have welcomed the findings, and said the aim of internal audit is to make sure any improvements or problems are highlighted.

A spokeswoman said: "We welcome the broad findings of the report and the importance of school security is reiterated throughout the school year to staff and pupils.

"The safety of our young people and staff is paramount and the reason for audits like these is to learn and share good practice.”