Children from a Knowsley primary school learnt an important lesson about the dangers on the roads through a roadside assessment of driver and passenger behaviour.
Year 6 pupils at Whiston Willis Community Primary School, Whiston, carried out speed surveys using radar equipment at a busy road near their school, as part of the ‘Life in the Fast Lane’ scheme run by Knowsley’s Road Safety team.
The initiative also enabled them to compile seatbelt and stopping distance surveys. Local councillors Sandra and Ron Gaffney and Pauline Kelly joined the pupils as they returned to the classroom and the results were presented to them. Pupils learnt through DVDs and a class discussion what the outcomes meant to them in terms of their safety as pedestrians and car passengers.
The session was of particular importance to year six pupils as they prepare to make the transition from primary to secondary school. It is likely that they will have to make a longer journey, and be expected to cross busy roads to get to and from school.
Ward councillors Sandra and Ron Gaffney and Cllr Pauline Kelly joined the pupils as they learnt the importance of road safety. Cllr Sandra Gaffney said, “Speaking on behalf of all of us we really enjoyed the session and we are sure the benefits for the pupils will last for years to come and save lives”.
Cllr Graham Morgan, Cabinet Member for Regeneration, Economy and Skills said, “At a time when we are encouraging children to walk and cycle to school, it’s vital that we provide them with the knowledge and skills to do this safely. The Fast Lane session allows children to gather their own data and discover practical ways to deal with the traffic hazards on any journey.”
The Fast Lane is delivered in schools across the borough and elected members are welcome to attend a session in a school in their Ward area. For details of future sessions please contact Knowsley’s Road Safety and Travel Plan Team on 0151 443 2227 or 0151 443 2232.
Cllr Pauline Kelly with children from Whiston Willis School
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