Children going to or from school sign

What it means

There's a school nearby and children are likely to be in or near the road.

A plate under the sign may say 'School'. Flashing amber lights below the sign warn that children are likely to be crossing at that moment.

Near schools, drive slowly and watch out for young cyclists and pedestrians. When the lights are flashing, drive very slowly until you're clear of the area.

Rules to know

• The sign warns of children going to or from school. Lights may be used with it to warn that children are likely to be crossing.

  Know Your Traffic Signs, p. 14

• Near schools, drive slowly and be particularly aware of young cyclists and pedestrians.

  The Highway Code, Rule 208

• A flashing amber signal below the 'School' warning sign tells you there may be children crossing the road ahead. Drive very slowly until you are clear of the area.

  The Highway Code, Rule 208

Common mistakes

• Mistake: Only slowing down when you can see children.

  Instead: Children can step out without warning. Slow down from the sign, and drive very slowly when the lights are flashing.

Test yourself

Recalling the answer helps it stick. Pick an answer to see how you did.

Question 1 of 1

What does this sign mean?

• AWarns of a zebra or parallel crossing ahead.
• BWarns that children may be crossing or near the road on their way to or from school.
• CWarns of a crossroads ahead.
• DWarns of a bend to the right ahead (to the left when the symbol is reversed).

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