Wednesday 7th June 2023
KEEP OUR CHILDREN SAFE – Be Kind and Respectful
Dear Parents and Carers,
I am unfortunately having to write to you about the dangerous and inconsiderate parking around school and the unkind and disrespectful language being used, including, in front of young children. I know pick up and drop off times are very busy; however, a small minority of parents are still parking without any thought to the safety of our children and families as well as using unkind language towards others.
Before half term and this week alone I have spoken to several drivers about parking directly opposite the school gates, on the double yellow line, on the zigzag lines and unbelievably parents are parking their cars on the busy T junction where many families try to cross. This is both dangerous and illegal. Pavements are also being mounted blocking pedestrians.
This parking can pose a safety risk to families that do walk and cycle to school, as well as to other road users. In addition, the concerns over unsafe parking can be a major barrier to increasing levels of walking and cycling to school which we promote as a Green Flag school.
The Highway Code rule 238 states: You MUST NOT wait or park on yellow lines during the times of operation shown on nearby time plates (or zone entry signs if in a Controlled Parking Zone) – see ‘Traffic signs’ and ‘Road markings’. Double yellow lines indicate a prohibition of waiting at any time even if there are no upright signs. You MUST NOT wait or park, or stop to set down and pick up passengers, on school entrance markings (see ‘Road markings’) when upright signs indicate a prohibition of stopping. Law RTRA sects 5 & 8
For the past few years I have been in constant discussions with both the Local Council and the police to see what can be done to solve some of the parking issues. Spelthorne Borough Council will continue to monitor parking through regular visits by Traffic Enforcement Officers.
I do understand that families will sometimes need to drive their children to school, however I would urge where possible to park away from the school and then walk in. Keep our school gates clear.
Thank you in advance for your support in this important issue and let’s hope together we can ensure the safety of the children and ensure we are considerate towards each other at all times. If you ever have any worries please speak to a member of staff in the first instance.
Yours Sincerely,
Rebecca Hutton
Headteacher