A Victorian Jewish school will be the first in the state to post armed guards in response to the nation’s heightened security status.

From this week, Melbourne’s largest Jewish school, Mount Scopus Memorial College, will post guards with guns at its three campuses, The Age reported.

It follows about two decades of a similar practice at Jewish schools in Sydney.

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“This enhancement of the guards’ equipment reflects the heightened security levels now in place across Australia and worldwide, and is not in response to any particular threat to the College,” Principal Rabbi James Kennard said.

“Security at Mount Scopus Memorial College is under constant review, and we aim to follow best practice at all times.

“Our foremost priority remains the safety of our students and staff.”

The decision to post the guards was made in conjunction with Victoria Police and other schools are expected to follow Mount Scopus’ lead.

In March, the Abbott government announced funding for Jewish and Islamic schools considered under threat from acts of terror.

More than 50 schools received a share of $18 million to improve security and combat possible terror attacks.

At the time, Executive Council of Australian Jewry’s Robert Goot said it was “just a matter of time before it happens and that measures ought to be undertaken to ensure students are safe”.