As children in city schools get back to the classroom this week, and as the nights draw in and the weather grows gloomier, Nottingham City Council is asking everyone to work together to keep children safe around schools. 

Nottingham City Council is working to keep children safe on the school run through making improvements to the roads outside schools. Recently, all schools in the city had their zigzag no parking lines repainted, as well as hundreds of other schools getting safety improvements including signage, flashing amber warning lights, crossings and 20mph zones.

We’re asking all parents or carers to walk, scoot or bike to school – that means less congestion on roads around schools and a safer environment for our kids with less harmful air pollution. If your child wants to become more proficient at cycling or learn to ride then there are several options. For primary school pupils then get your school to contact Ridewise, our cycle training provider, regarding the options for cycle training, including learn to ride courses and the Biekebility – the national cycle training standard. https://www.ridewise.org.uk/cycling

For those who have no alternative but to drive to school, we’re asking that parents or carers: 

• BE TIMELY – Can you try to get to school in good time, so that you can park away from the school, especially the zig-zag lines, and walk your child/children up to the school gates? This will mean better visibility and a safer environment for everyone. 
• BE CONSIDERATE – Please can you park considerately; not blocking the pavements or resident’s driveways and turning off your vehicle’s engine whilst waiting, to reduce pollution?  
• BE PATIENT – Can you please drive carefully and be patient whilst driving away from the school? We appreciate everyone has busy lives; but rushing has been the main cause of previous accidents. 

 Councillor Linda Woodings, Executive Member for Regional Development, Growth and Transport at Nottingham City Council, said: “During the last school year, three children were knocked over by cars outside Nottingham schools. So, as a new term begins, we’re asking for your help to keep the roads outside school calm and safe for everyone.” 

“By planning safer parking area away from the school, leaving in plenty of time and talking to their child about road safety, parents and carers can do everything in their power to keep their kids and all kids safe.” 

Councillor Woodings has also created a shareable Facebook video reminding people to help keep our children safe.