Kilkenny County Council partners with students to enhance safety in school zones

In an innovative partnership aimed at prioritising the safety and well-being of students, Kilkenny County Council has joined forces with secondary school students in Kilkenny City to tackle the challenges posed by high car usage around school areas.

A recent survey conducted in secondary schools within Kilkenny City has revealed that 53% of students commute to school by car. The survey found that Kilkenny City schools have large catchment areas and, in some schools, over 60% of students live more than 5km away from the school. While the use of school buses is a popular option and the city bus numbers are on the rise, the sheer volume of cars directly dropping off students at school gates has led to increasingly unsafe conditions around school premises.

An often, dismissed concern is the adverse impact on air quality due to idling vehicles. The harmful gases and particulate matter exacerbate respiratory illnesses among young people in Ireland. Recognising the urgent need for action, Kilkenny County Council and secondary school students are advocating for a shift in behaviour among those dropping off students.

The collaborative initiative urges parents and guardians to drop off students away from the immediate vicinity of school gates, thus creating safer spaces outside schools. Encouraging students to walk the final leg of their journey, not only creates a healthier environment, but also promotes physical activity and provides students with an opportunity to enjoy fresh air before their school day.

“We believe that by working together, we can create safer school zones for the benefit of everyone,” remarked Mr. Larry Cotter from St. Kieran’s College.

“This partnership between the council and our students exemplifies the power of collective action in fostering positive change within our community.

“The call to action extends to all members of the community, for the month of May, urging them to support efforts to keep school areas car-free and to prioritise the safety and well- being of children and young people. By joining forces, Kilkenny County Council and secondary school students aim to create a healthier, more liveable environment for future generations," he said.