School Crossing Patrols - Frequently Asked Questions.

A School Crossing Patrol is primarily provided to cross children aged 11 and under but they should assist any child across regardless of age.  It is also important to note that in 2001, patrols were given the power to cross adults.  Motorists must STOP when the sign is displayed regardless of whether it is children or adults crossing.

To legally stop traffic, a Patrol must be wearing a high visibility coat and a hat and display the prescribed STOP sign.  In the case of a Patrol operating on a light controlled crossing, the lights control the traffic and the STOP sign is not used.  This is to avoid confusion to motorists.

Patrols work for 38 weeks of term time.  In addition, they receive pay for 4 weeks holiday (this increases to 5 weeks after completing 5 years of service) and a further 2 weeks for training, medicals etc. This equates to 44 (45) weeks pay at £6.08 per hour.  This is then split equally over 12 months so you will receive the same amount of pay each month regardless of whether it is term time or school holidays.

The School Crossing Patrol Service would welcome applications from people even if they could only do mornings or afternoons or, for example 2 ½ / 3 days.  Ideally the remaining sessions should also be filled however, as long as the hours are regular, parents will become confident that their child has the assistance of a Patrol on certain days / sessions.  If you wish to apply for a job share, it is worth considering if anyone you know would be willing to apply for the remaining hours.

Offers of employment as a Patrol are subject to passing a medical assessment.  Each successful applicant will undergo a medical to assess their ability to perform the duties of a Patrol and will be reassessed on a two yearly basis throughout their employment.  As long as the employee continues to pass their medicals, there are no maximum age restrictions.

Unfortunately people under the age of 18 are unable to be appointed as a Patrol.  There is a minimum age restriction applied by most authorities under ‘The Management of Health & Safety at Work Regulations 1999’ Regulation 19 ‘Protection of Young Persons’ states that where there is a significant risk they have to be supervised at all times.