Safety Adjustments to Morning Drop-Off

As we reach the midpoint of Term One, we wish to provide an important update regarding our morning drop-off trial. While our initial goal was to run the trial without change throughout term 1, real-world observations over the last five weeks—combined with urgent safety concerns from the City of Kingston—have necessitated some immediate adjustments.

The Challenge: Safety on Springs Road

Reports from the Council and parents have highlighted dangerous behaviours involving traffic on Springs Road. Specifically, patterns of motorists in and around the Springs Rd crossing.

In direct response, we are adjusting the routines for the remainder of the trial to ensure student safety.

Immediate Changes (Effective Monday 2 March)

To alleviate the safety concerns near the entries we are reopening the hall pedestrian gate (near the Kiss and Go ZOne), with the following changes in effect:

Hall Pedestrian Gate Re-Opened: Contrary to the initial trial plan, the Hall Gate will now be open for morning drop-off to provide an additional, safer entry point for families.
The Bunney Rd Playground Internal Gate will also reopen
Assembly areas will be adjusted to encourage junior families to use the Hall Pedestrian Gate
Prep - Year 2 Students will now place bags and assemble in the undercover area near the hall

What this means for families:

Drop-off from 8:30am: Students can arrive from 8:30am, where they will be supervised in the existing school yard or Bunney Rd Playground until the start of the day at 8:45am.
8:40 am: Music will play across the school. This is the signal for students to move to their lines and prepare for the day.
Gates open:
- The main Bunney Road gate, Springs Road gate and the Hall Pedestrian Gate will open from 8:30 am.
Drop-off zone: The car drop-off zone will continue to operate from 8:30 am as usual, students will be directed to the Hall Pedestrian Gate.

Start of the school day:

P-2 will line up in the undercover area near the hall
Yr 3-6 will line up on the basketball courts between the office and B Building (uniform shop).
8:40 am: Music will play across the school. This is the signal for students to move to their lines and prepare for the day.
Teachers will collect their class from their designated area and walk students to the classroom by 8:45am.
St Andrew’s Prayer will be broadcast at 8:45 am, followed classing moving to their classroom.
Formal learning will commence at 8:55am sharp.

We have noticed an increasing number of students arriving at the gates well before they open. While we understand the pressures of the morning commute, the safety of our students is our priority, and we ask that they do not arrive at the school gates before 8:30 am.

We thank you for your assistance and support as we implement these arrangements. This model will continue to operate as a trial for Term One, after which it will be reviewed with staff and community feedback.

Regards

Brian Martin

Principal