Recent Events across Monmouthshire
Back to MonmouthshireWalk to School Week, Chairman´s Lunch
Walk to School Week was very successful in Monmouthshire this year and as a thank you the Chairman, Cllr Mrs Jane Foulser, invited participating schools to a special luncheon at County Hall on Wednesday 10th June.
Fourteen pupils from five Monmouthshire primary schools attended the event in the Chairman’s Chamber which was decorated with balloons and posters for the occasion. They were delighted by a special visit from Iolo the Road Safety Zebra who helped the Chairman and her consort, Mr William Foulser, present certificates and rucksacks full of road safety goodies to the children.
Later, the pupils took part in road safety activities including using ‘beer goggles’ to negotiate tasks like putting coins into containers with varying sized holes, tackling an obstacle course of cones and filling in colouring sheets. The goggles give the wearer the view that a drunken driver would have and consequently the simple tasks became difficult. Although great fun for all concerned there was a serious message that it would be much more difficult to drive a car in these circumstances, and that’s why it is so important not to drink and drive.
The Chairperson of Monmouthshire Jane Foulser said,
“The purpose of the Safer Routes to School Initiative and events like Walk to School Week is to raise awareness and encourage more children and parents to walk to school to reduce the number of cars at our school gates, resulting in a safer environment and increase the health benefits for all”
Tom Williams from Usk Primary said,
“I have learnt never to get drunk while driving a car. It is really good to cycle and walk to school to cut down on pollution. I feel good to be here today”
Alicia Champion from Pembroke Primary said,
“I feel excited to get certificates and photos for walk to school week. Doing the games is fun and seeing everyone in their uniform looking smart is good too”
Linda Davies, head teacher of Thornwell School said,
“Walk to School Week gives us an opportunity to focus on road safety issues in school. It raises awareness to parents and the community. I think we can become too complacent on these issues. Children enjoy the event and therefore remember the important messages”
A big thank you goes to Abbie Davies, Monmouthshire’s Travel Plan Coordinator, for organizing the event and also the Capita Symonds Road Safety Team for their support.
A great day was had by all it was all about learning important messages through fun and play.
Let’s hope we will have the same success with Walk to School Week next year!
