Road Safety
With road safety week coming up in early November, and most local primary schools within the borough of Bexley having a male or female hero in high-visibility fluorescent jackets helping the children safely cross the roads into school each day.
So I felt it would be a good idea to catch up with our local lollipop lady in Bexley, who patrols the crossing on Hurst Road for the children of the local primary school, whatever the weather come rain or shine.
How long have you been a lollipop lady Jan?
“I have been a lollipop lady for 22 years, and have been working in Bexley village for around twelve years now.”
Is there any formal Training or Qualifications required, in order for you to become a Lollipop lady?
“Yes, I was trained in the beginning and now I attend training courses at least twice a year, although you don’t need any qualifications but it's good to be fit and healthy when doing a job like this.”
In the winter, as it gets darker earlier, does this cause more problems for you, regarding road safety?
“No, I don’t think it matters the same rules apply throughout the year, and it's always useful if the children can be bright and seen."
How often do you visit the local groups, to help better educate them on how to properly and safely conduct themselves when near traffic?
“A member of our team can visit a local after school club for example; the rainbows, the brownies, and the local playgroup’s and will try to visit them as often as possible. Also as road safety week is almost here, I will go in and speak in the school assembly, but most of the time members of the local councils team will go in and visit school pupils.”
Have you ever been recognised for your services?
"I was privileged to be invited to Buckingham Palace for afternoon tea."
What are the best and worst things about your job?
“Well honestly apart from the rain and the snow, there isn’t anything that I dislike about, my job, and I view my job as a privilege and believe that it’s worthwhile because it makes a difference to peoples lives both morning and evening and above all else it’s really all about keeping the children and parents safe.”
Its great to know that people like Jan and her colleagues are there to help us and keep us safe.
You can always visit the ‘THINK’ road safety website or talk to your local Lollipop lady or man for advice on how to stay safe on our local roads.
By Laura Pollington - Farringtons School
