Home chevron_right Schools and education chevron_right School crossing patrols

School crossing patrol service

School crossing patrol officers help children and adults to safely cross busy roads outside schools. Even where a school crossing patrol is provided, it remains the responsibility of the parent or guardian of the child to ensure they travel to and from school safely.

When a school crossing patrol officer displays their STOP sign, motorists must stop. Failing to do so is breaking the law, and drivers will be reported, risking a fine of up to £1000 and 3 penalty points on their licence.

Understanding crossing patrol signals

add

Sign held upside down
Not ready to cross pedestrians. You can keep driving.

Sign held to the side
Barrier to stop pedestrians crossing. You can keep driving.

Sign held up high
Pedestrians are ready to cross. You must be prepared to stop your vehicle.

Sign held out, both arms extended
Pedestrians are crossing. You must stop your vehicle.

Poster showing the different signals used at school crossing patrols

Safety around schools

add

School crossing patrol officers need to see, and be seen. Drivers should always keep school entrances clear, as inconsiderate parking can be very dangerous for pedestrians.

To avoid congestion near the school, park a little further away and walk to the school
Don't park or stop at any time on yellow lines or SCHOOL KEEP CLEAR markings
Avoid parking opposite SCHOOL KEEP CLEAR markings
Don't reverse your car into school entrances in order to turn around
Don't double park outside schools

School crossing patrol locations

add

Site specific surveys are carried out and school crossing patrol sites are justified by national criteria. This is a calculation based on the number of vehicles passing the crossing point combined with the number of children crossing between the busiest periods. Additional factors are also considered, such as visibility, road width and vehicle speeds.