Pupils from Woodpecker Hall Academy use speed detection equipment to catch out local drivers

Woodpecker School pupils are working to boost road safety — Woodpecker Hall Academy School pupils are working to boost road safety

Pupils at an Edmonton Green school have taken the issue of road safety into their own hands – by monitoring speeding drivers.

Enfield Council leader Ergin Erbil and London Assembly member Joanne McCartney visited Woodpecker Hall Academy to support children taking part in the ‘Junior Roadwatch’ scheme, an initiative designed to empower young people to promote safer streets and reduce collisions in their neighbourhoods.

During the morning session, pupils from year six donned high-visibility vests and used speed-monitoring equipment under the guidance of the council’s road safety team.

The children recorded vehicle speeds along the school’s surrounding streets, including Nightingale Road, and identified areas where drivers need to slow down. They later designed posters to remind motorists to obey the speed limit.

Headteacher Nicky Ross said: “We’re proud to take part in the Junior Roadwatch campaign for safety around our school.

“Having such a high-powered delegation visit us shows our children just how important this issue is, and it inspires them to become ambassadors for road safety in our community.”

Launched in 2017 by national charity Brake, Junior Roadwatch brings speed detection equipment into schools and helps young people learn about road safety. It also “empowers them to share key messages with drivers and the local community”.

Schools across Enfield and London have been participating in similar sessions to promote safer streets and reduce the risk of accidents.

The speed data collected by the pupils at Woodpecker Hall will contribute to discussions on local traffic measures and future road safety initiatives in the borough.

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