Configuring 'Guided Access' Mode on iPad

There are a couple of different ways of preventing an app from being closed on the iPad

I would strongly recommend NOT using app lock via the MDM

As the only way of coming out of app lock is by sending a command from the MDM

If the device cannot connect to the internet to receive this command, it must be reset via DFU on an iTunes computer

The built in Guided Access mode would be preferred as a passcode can be entered on the device itself to exit the app

Configuring Guided Access

1. Within the Settings app on the iPad search for Guided Access

2. Tap Passcode Settings -> Set Guided Access Passcode

and setup a passcode

3. Ensure Accessibility Shortcut is enabled

4. Ensure Display Auto-Lock is set to Default

Setting Up Automatic Guided Access

By Default Guided Access will only apply if it has been turned on by triple-clicking the power button

However it can be automatically enabled through the use of Shortcuts

1. Open the Shortcuts app on the iPad

2. Create a new short cut with the action to 'Start Guided Access' and save

3. Still within Shortcuts create a new automation

4. Select the App -> Is Opened Trigger

5. Select the app you would like to trigger guided access on

Ensure that Run Immediately is ticked

6. Select the action to run the Start Guided Access shortcut you created earlier

Guided access will now start automatically when the selected app is opened