School Crossing Patrols operate in line with national guidance and follow recognised safety standards and procedures. Patrol Officers receive appropriate training and wear an approved uniform, including their patrol sign, when carrying out their duties.
School Crossing Patrols have legal powers to stop traffic at designated crossing points, helping pedestrians cross safely during busy school travel times.
As well as supporting children travelling to and from school, patrols help encourage independent travel, promote active journeys and provide reassurance to parents, schools and local communities.
Using a School Crossing Patrol sign
School Crossing Patrol Officers use their sign to indicate when pedestrians can cross and when drivers must stop.
- Sign upside down: The patrol is not ready to assist pedestrians crossing.
- Sign sideways: The sign is being used as a barrier to prevent pedestrians from crossing.
- Sign held up high: The patrol is preparing to stop traffic and pedestrians should wait.
- Sign extended out: Vehicles must stop to allow pedestrians to cross safely.
Assisting pedestrians
School Crossing Patrols are available to help any pedestrian cross safely at their designated crossing point.
Although patrols are often associated with helping children travel to and from school, they can also assist adults and other pedestrians where it is safe and appropriate to do so.
Drivers' responsibilities
School Crossing Patrol Officers have legal powers to stop traffic to allow pedestrians to cross safely.
Drivers must stop when instructed by a patrol. The patrol sign has the same legal authority as a red traffic light.
Failing to stop when instructed is an offence and could result in:
- a fine of up to £1,000
- penalty points on your driving licence
- disqualification from driving
Following the instructions of a School Crossing Patrol helps protect pedestrians, children and patrol officers.
Unsupervised patrol sites
If a School Crossing Patrol site is temporarily unavailable, a replacement patrol will not normally be provided.
Schools will be informed when a patrol site is unsupervised so they can share this information with parents and carers.
Parents and carers remain responsible for their child's journey to and from school at all times, whether or not a School Crossing Patrol is available.