West Leigh School Children Stand Up to Parking Problems

May 11, 2026

Pupils at West Leigh Junior School are taking a stand on road safety with the launch of a new Parking Patrol initiative aimed at improving parking behaviour outside the school gates. The campaign, led by members of the School Council, has seen children arriving early before lessons in recent months to encourage drivers to park more safely and considerately near the school. The initiative was developed following discussions during council meetings and a visit to the Houses of Parliament, where pupils spoke directly with their local MP about concerns surrounding traffic and parking near the school. Children highlighted issues including vehicles parking on yellow lines and blocking nearby residents’ driveways during drop-off and pick-up times. Armed with politely worded leaflets, members of the Parking Patrol team have been speaking to motorists and reminding them about the importance of safe and respectful parking. West Leigh Junior School first opened in Ronald Hill Grove in 1913, long before school-run traffic became a major issue. Today, congestion around the school at busy times has become a growing concern for both parents and local residents.