Big trucks, tiny learners

Imagine the excitement of seeing a real HGV up close and personal.

This became a reality for more than 250 schoolchildren, thanks to a road safety programme led by Saint-Gobain and logistics partner XPO.

Pupils from Burton-on-the-Wolds Primary School, Lantern Lane Primary School, and Brookside Primary School in East Leake were introduced to big vehicles to highlight how to be safe and seen around them.

“This initiative aims to keep children safe on the road, while supporting the school curriculum on road safety and aligning with Saint-Gobain's commitment to community involvement and Making the World a Better Home,” explained Ross Kinsey, Network Performance Manager, who led the project.

Children aged 4-11 are at highest risk of pedestrian accidents, especially during school drop-off and pick-up times, according to a Churchill Insurance study analysing over 600,000 road traffic accidents.

During the lively local sessions supported by SGIS colleagues Bruce Fisher, Strategic Projects Lead, and Facilities Coordinator Gemma Davis, kids learned about road safety through interactive presentations and hands-on experiences with a real HGV. They were taught the importance of ‘stop, think, cross’ and the dangers around large vehicles. Each child received a goody bag with safety-themed gifts.

The sessions were a hit and teachers raved about the programme. “The kids were really engaged,” said one. “The hands-on experience was brilliant,” said another.

And it’s not just the kids and teachers who were buzzing. Saint-Gobain colleagues were happy to see their own children excited about the big trucks and the safety heroes who drove them.

Ross added: “We are excited to see the future of this programme, ensuring that road safety education becomes a regular part of our community engagement in sites across the country.”