Kids push School Bus Safety Message

The project involved children collecting and analysing data about safety issues affecting those who use school bus services. The research included measuring speed of traffic passing stationary school buses, taking photos of hazards on the school bus route, interviewing bus drivers and bus users, and taking video recordings of school bus journeys.

The children led the way at a mini-conference at the New Plymouth Club on 26th November, sharing their findings with an audience of road safety representatives. Mayor Peter Tennent opened the event, and later commended the children for their hard work and creativity. They rewarded him by singing happy birthday (well, it was his birthday after all!)

Guests at the mini-conference were informed about a range of safety hazards including inconsistent bus stop signage, lack of school bus warning signs on the bus route, unsafe bus stops, poorly maintained roads, driver distraction and poor student behaviour. Suggested solutions to addressing the identified safety issues included applying for a TotalSpan Bus Shelter, wearing hi-viz vests and installing 20km speed limit signs on buses. One group of children developed a DVD to educate younger children about safe behaviour when using school buses.

A number of road safety representatives, including those from Council, Tranzit Coachlines and NZTA offered to work with the children in the future to explore whether any of their suggestions could be put into place.

Seven primary schools are currently involved in the project: Oakura, Mangorei, Kaimata, Inglewood, Welbourn, Tikorangi and Seventh Day Adventist.