St Peter’s pupils share safe parking message
Pupils at St Peter’s Primary in Buckie have teamed up with the Scottish Fire and Rescue Service to encourage people to park safely when driving near the school.
Inconsiderate parking has been a long-standing issue in the area, often obstructing access for emergency vehicles and making it challenging for drivers to see children as they cross the road.
To help tackle the issue, and with the new school year now underway, the pupils have created a video message with support from the fire service, urging drivers to park responsibly and keep vital routes clear.
Lesley Maclennan, acting head teacher at St Peter’s Primary, said: “The children wanted to share this message because they care about everyone’s safety - especially their friends and classmates. It’s about making sure the area around the school is as safe as possible for everyone, and they’ve taken real pride in being part of that”
The thoughtful message has attracted support from local ward councillors.
Councillor Neil McLennan said: “I have highlighted various road safety issues since becoming a Councillor. Improving road safety is everyone’s responsibility and needs input from various authorities – and there is also a duty for every road user to act safely. I am delighted that St Peter’s pupils have driven forward the education of drivers and have highlighted serious issues in a constructive way. I hope everyone takes their words to heart.”
Councillor John Stuart added: “It’s great to see young people taking an active role in promoting road safety. Obstructive parking is an issue at several schools in our area, and I would urge people to listen to the message in this video regardless of where you live.”
Councillor Sonya Warren remarked: “Well done to the pupils and staff at St Peter’s. Their efforts are a great example of community teamwork, and I fully support their call for safer parking around the school.”
Watch Commander Colin Forbes from Scottish Fire and Rescue takes part in the video, highlighting how dangerous obstructive parking can be.
He said: “When we were invited to take part in this video, we jumped at the chance – the children have recognised just how dangerous obstructive parking can be – from our perspective, it’s potentially the difference between being able to save a life, and not.
“Everyone recognises that it’s not deliberate and people don’t realise the scale of the problem – that’s why this message is so important. It’s thoughtful and constructive, and I applaud the children as they look to make a real difference.”