As a parent, I have witnessed too many frightening near misses involving young children navigating traffic as they wait outside Bruton Primary School each morning. Our school currently opens its gates at 8:45, for school to start at 09.00. Leaving a tiny 15 minute gap for children to get there safely.

Unfortunately, this short period forces many families to gather outside the school, often spilling onto the road due to crowded pavements. This puts our children at significant risk with the continuous flow of cars and vans. The safety of our children should always be our top priority, and it's clear that the current system isn't providing that.

The area around Bruton Primary School becomes particularly congested during school drop-off times. According to a 2023 local survey, more than 75% of parents believe that more should be done to ensure the safety of school children during rush hours, especially in highly trafficked areas like Bruton.

Opening the school gates earlier, say at 8:30, could make a considerable difference in alleviating these safety concerns. Not only would it reduce congestion and potential accidents, but it would also provide children with a secure place to assemble before the formal school day begins.

Allowing extra time for children to enter the school premises would facilitate a safer, more organised start to the day. Simple measures like this are crucial for protecting our most vulnerable family members.

We urge the Bruton Primary School administration and local authorities to take immediate action in addressing this pressing safety issue. By signing this petition, you are supporting a practical and necessary change that prioritises the wellbeing of our children.

Please join me in asking Bruton Primary School to open their gates earlier for the safety and security of all our children.