Information on Loughborough

Play teaches road safety message to pupils

Posted on 31/12/2008

Leicestershire Councty Council Highways, Transportation & Waste Management

4 December 2008

Play teaches road safety message to pupils

Children from primary schools across Leicestershire have been learning the value of walking to school and how to do so safely - thanks to a live theatre performance.

Car Story has been performed in nine county schools. The play aims to encourage seven to 11-year-olds to walk to school, and demonstrate the benefits that go with it, while also pointing out potential traffic hazards.

It tells the story of 10 year old Polly and her dad, who show the audience how they can walk or cycle to school safely and have fun along the way.

Dad loves his car while Polly is more sensible and enthusiastic about walking and cycling. Helped by volunteers from the audience, Polly manages to teach her dad the importance of road safety.

The first school to host the show by Box Clever Theatre Company, was Merton Primary School in Syston, where pupils were treated to a mix of laughter and serious messages by the two characters.

Nicholas Rushton, Deputy Leader of the County Council, said: “Car Story is a fun performance but reinforces some serious road safety messages, as well as encouraging children to consider walking to school. Seeing such an exciting live performance can really help to get the message across.”

The play backs up the work schools do on their Travel Plans, which is a series of practical steps to reduce the number of cars arriving at the school gate and to encourage walking and cycling.

Further information on road safety and walking to school

Notes for Editors:

Car Story appeared at the following schools:

Merton Primary School, Syston

Rothley Church of England Primary School

Hallbrook Primary  School, Broughton Astley

Huncote Community Primary School

Rendell Primary School, Loughborough

Orchard Community Primary School, Castle Donington

Lady Jane Grey Primary School, Groby

Mercenfeld Primary School, Markfield

Brookside School, Oadby

Twenty pupils from Hemington Primary School were guests at Orchard Community Primary School.