LOLLIPOP men and women are wanted for a number of schools across South Gloucestershire.

The South Gloucestershire road safety team are looking for school crossing patrol officers for primaries in Thornbury, Yate, Chipping Sodbury, Almondsbury, Longwell Green, North Common and Winterbourne.  

The posts are paid and the role generally takes half an hour in the morning and afternoon during term times, with specific time slots depending on the school.

Tracey Lush, who works as a lollipop lady for Bromley Heath infant and junior schools, said that she loves her job.

“It is a really lovely start to the day,” she said.

“I do feel as though I am making a difference, making sure children get to school safely, and everyone is so grateful I am here.”

Tracey already worked at the school as a lunchtime supervisor before becoming a patrol officer, and found the hours tied in with that job and her own three children.

She said: “I was doing the school run here anyway.

“I don’t think I realised how suitable it was for me with the hours fitting around the children but it is ideal.

“I absolutely love it - even the weather in the winter doesn’t put me off.”

Cllr Colin Hunt, lead member for planning and transport at South Gloucestershire Council, said that school crossing patrols are “highly valued” for the work they do.

He added: “Crossing patrol staff often find it a hugely rewarding and sociable role and many stay in their post for years and years."

Road safety officer Wendy Dykes added that parents and other residents should “spread the word” about the vacancies.

She said: “The main duty of a school crossing patrol is to judge when it is best to signal for traffic to stop and to ensure the safety of the people wishing to cross.

“We also look for our patrols to build and maintain a good working relationship with the children, parents, drivers and the schools that does not compromise the safety or the efficient and effective operation of the site.”

Areas where there are vacancies for school crossing patrol officers include:

  • Almondsbury CE Primary School
  • Crossways Infants/Juniors, Thornbury
  • Elm Park Primary School, Winterbourne
  • Longwell Green Primary School
  • Manorbrook Primary School, Thornbury
  • North Road Primary School, Yate
  • St Barnabas CE Primary School, North Common
  • St Johns Mead CE Primary School, Chipping Sodbury
  • St Michaels CE Primary School, Winterbourne
  • Watermore Primary School, Frampton Cotterell

Those interested in applying are asked to call 01454 863611