Throughout 2024, pupils at Knayton C of E Academy near Thirsk have tackled a long-standing traffic problem in their village with creativity, determination, and a strong sense of community.
For years, concerns have grown over vehicles speeding past the school on Stockton Road, endangering students, staff, and residents.
Abi Clay, executive headteacher of Knayton C of E Academy with pupils Elias and Hermione (Image: KNAYTON C OF E ACADEMY) However, this year, the children have taken action as courageous advocates for change; creating signs, posters and emotive pieces of work to deter speeding drivers.
Speed limit change considered outside Knayton C of E Academy:
And now, North Yorkshire Council says it is considering reducing the speed limit by 10mph outside Knayton C of E Academy, subject to a consultation.
It’s hoped that the new speed limit will be in place at the start of 2025.
North Yorkshire Council’s executive member for highways and transportation, Cllr Keane Duncan, said: “Road safety is of paramount importance to us and we are actively reviewing speed limits outside all schools in North Yorkshire.
“The proposals are subject to public consultation. Depending upon the results, it is hoped that the proposed speed limit reduction will be introduced in 2025.”
The speed watch initiative began with a school-wide competition encouraging pupils to design road safety signs to urge drivers to slow down.
The competition aimed to raise awareness of the dangers of speeding and to give the children a voice in tackling the issue affecting their daily lives.
Two standout designs, created by Elias and Hermione, were chosen as winners.
Their artwork, praised for its clarity, creativity, and impactful messages by their teachers, has been turned into real road signs that have now been installed in the village outside the school.
Despite the potential speed limit change in Knayton, Abi Clay, the executive headteacher of Knayton C of E Academy is keen to press ahead with continuing to remind drivers that they need to slow down next to the school.
“Knayton C of E Academy’s project serves as a shining example of how education can empower children to take an active role in their communities and advocate for positive change.
“‘We are delighted to hear that a reduction of the speed limit outside the school is imminent, however, we know that this alone will not deter some motorists from still breaking that limit.
“Therefore, we would also like to see the introduction of traffic calming measures alongside reducing speed to 30mph.”
The issue of speeding in the village is not new, with residents and parents frequently expressing concerns about the safety of children and pedestrians due to it being a 40mph limit outside the school.
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Local councillors and community members have also applauded the project.
“These children have shown extraordinary courage and creativity in addressing an issue that affects everyone in the village,” said one resident.
“Their efforts remind us all that even the youngest members of our community can inspire meaningful change,” added another.
