How can you help the Patrols?

School Crossing Patrols need consideration from motorists so they are able to carry out their duties in helping vulnerable pedestrians in all weathers to cross our roads safely.

When a patrol steps out into the road ahead of you displaying their stop sign motorists must stop to allow people to cross. It is an offence not to stop when signalled to do so by a school crossing patrol. When you see the patrol reduce your speed and be prepared to stop, stop a safe distance away from the patrol, do not let your vehicle roll forward and do not move off until the patrol has returned to the pavement after people have finished crossing.

If you do not stop you are breaking the law and the patrol can report you which could mean you face the following possible penalties:

• a fine of up to £1000
• three penalty points
• disqualification

Driving near school in general

Take special care when driving near schools even if no school crossing patrol exists. Drive slowly and be aware of young cyclists and pedestrians. Again there may be flashing amber signals below school warning signs which indicates that there may be children crossing the road ahead. Drive very slowly until you are clear of the area.

Be prepared for the unexpected – a child could run out. Be patient, be alert and keep your speed down.

Parking at school entrances/ on zigzag markings/ near SCP sites

Never park near the school entrance, on the zigzag markings or at any of our specially marked SCP sites. We advise that you park no where within the 50metres of road markings as this area is essential for the Patrol to do their job

The zig-zags are to provide a clear area at the entrance to schools in which children can cross the road. Children can see motorists and motorists can see them.

Remember - Keep the school entrance clear of stationary vehicles even if picking up or setting down children

Do not park your vehicle on the road where it would endanger inconvenience or obstruct pedestrians or other road users. Do not stop near a school entrance

You must not wait or park where there are restrictions shown by school entrance markings on the carriageway.

If you can park well away from school, walking the last part of the journey will ease congestion and give parents/guardians a chance to teach their child some valuable road safety training

Parental Responsibility

Even where a School Crossing Patrol is provided, parents remain responsible for ensuring their children's safety, just as they do when a zebra crossing or pelican crossing is provided.

Some parents, however, may regard the provision of a School Crossing Patrol as an indication that the 'Appropriate Authority' is prepared to assume responsibility for the safety of their children on their whole journey to and from school.  This is a misconception.

When considering the issue of parental responsibility it is ironic to note that in some cases parents themselves are the cause of traffic levels that necessitate the provision of a School Crossing Patrol. At some school sites much of the vehicular traffic is created by parents driving their children to and from school.

The responsibility for ensuring the safety of children travelling to and from school is, and must remain, a parental one.