Janice Worger, a beloved School Crossing Patroller was honoured in a special assembly on May 17, as she performed her final patrol after 36 years of service at Stoke Mandeville Combined School
Janice began her role in 1989, guiding thousands of children, parents, and carers safely across the road. Over the years, she has become a treasured figure in the school community.
“I love welcoming the children into school each day and have enjoyed watching them grow up and then bringing their own children along to the school,” Janice said.
Patrollers at school crossings used to wear plain white dust jackets. Now, they carry distinctive “lollipops” that characterise their role and they dress in highly visible bright and reflective apparel.
Janice fondly recalled how warm and friendly parents’ wave from their cars, and when children bring her Easter eggs and Christmas gifts. “These are the little things that make you feel so appreciated,” she remarked.
Peter Martin, Deputy Cabinet Member for Transport, attended the assembly to thank Janice. “I would like to congratulate Janice for her incredible dedication and hard work over the years and to say thank you.
“Our School Crossing Patrollers do a fantastic job helping children across the county to have a safe journey to and from school every day. Whatever the weather, Janice and her colleagues are there with a smile on their faces and a cheery greeting, carrying out such an important job in our local communities.”
Peter also highlighted the bigger impact of patrollers. “School Crossing Patrollers promote more active travel and encourage families to walk to and from school instead of driving, by creating a safer environment. This leads to cleaner air, healthier lifestyles, and important road safety lessons for children,” He added.
Buckinghamshire has around 60 School Crossing Patrollers, providing a vital community service and new recruits are always welcome. For more information or to find out about vacancies, contact Corinne Randall at 01296 383 432 or corinne.randall@buckinghamshire.gov.uk, or Georgina Longley at 01494 586 639 or georgina.longley@buckinghamshire.gov.uk.
