On reflection, it’s better for pupils in Southwark to be seen

Four and five-year-old children in Southwark schools are being given new safety reflector badges for their backpacks, to make sure they are safe and visible when walking to and from school.

On Tuesday, councillor James McAsh, cabinet member for the climate emergency, clean air and streets, visited Hollydale Primary School, Hollydale Road, Nunhead, to present the reception class children with their new badges, which come in teddy bear and dragon shapes.

“October is when we start to see shorter daylight hours, and it’s also International Walk to School Month, so it’s a good time to emphasise the importance of being seen and being safe,” he said.

“We work closely with our local schools to teach children how to stay safe when travelling to and from school; this includes free road safety training for all primary schools.

“This is an important part of our Streets for People work, making it easier and safer for everyone to walk and wheel in the borough. Walking to school can improve children’s physical and mental health and has the added benefit of reducing cars around school entrances, resulting in cleaner air.”

Since September 2023, about 1,700 primary school children have taken part in pedestrian training in Southwark. To find out more about how to book road safety training at your school, please visit Road Safety and Sustainable Travel | Southwark Schools

Pictured top: Hollydale Primary School pupils after being presented with their reflector badges (Picture: LB Southwark)