It is wonderful to see how many of our students engage in active travel (walk, ride or scoot) options to get to and from school on a regular basis.  Even now, in the middle of winter, many families are taking advantage of active travel options as a way of contributing towards the recommended 60 minutes of physical activity  each day.  Some parents tell me that they enjoy this time walking with their child (and usually the family dog too) as it is a great time for conversation and can be a lot less stressful than driving.   The high number of active travellers has definitely benefited our school community during this time of Covid-19 restrictions, with less traffic around our school.

As children grow, and with supervised experiences, they gradually become more independent in their ability to get around by themselves.  One of the most important aspects of being a parent is teaching your children to become independent. But sometimes it’s easier said than done, especially when you have such a strong instinct to protect them.  

For tips on preparing your child to get around on their own, please read VicHealth’s Steps for helping children become more independent. 

With so many children walking, riding and scooting to and from school, it is important that everybody takes responsibility for ensuring that our students are safe.  

For students, this means they need to be aware of their surroundings and have clear strategies to keep themselves safe.  For example, looking carefully when crossing roads, following laws for pedestrians and riding safely.  

For the adults in our community, taking responsibility for ensuring that our students are safe involves:

1. Ensuring that your child/ren are ready for traveling independently in a safe manner
2. Driving safely, aware of the unpredictability of some children who are developing their independence in getting about by themselves.  This includes limiting your speed, especially in the streets close to schools.  

Driving in the neighbouring streets close to school can at times be stressful.  Parents can sometimes be running a little late or desperately looking for a car park close to the gate so they can drop the kids off and get to work.  In recent weeks the Crossing Supervisor on Marlin Drive has reported a number of cars not stopping at the crossing and has expressed her  fears for the safety of students and herself.  Police have been notified regarding this unacceptable driving.  We all play our role in ensuring the safety of our community.  Please take care, slow down, and if you witness anything dangerous, please don’t hesitate in contacting police.  If you see our students engaging in unsafe travel, please let me know by email on panderson@staroceangrove.catholic.edu.au.

Sadly, in recent times there have been too many examples of a general lack of respect and courtesy by some Victorians that seem to place their needs ahead of those of anyone else.  Hopefully our school community can continue to be a beacon of safety, kindness and respect, especially when it comes to navigating the busyness of school drop off or pick up.  

Paul Anderson