TRAIN operator Greater Anglia is calling on schools across East Anglia to apply to take part in a free rail safety education programme, delivered in partnership with Rail Safe Friendly.

The programme helps improve rail safety awareness for children and young people across Norfolk, Suffolk, Essex, Cambridgeshire and Hertfordshire, giving pupils vital knowledge about railway safety.

Last year, Greater Anglia sponsored 149 schools to take part, reaching more than 91,500 young people. This year, a further 150 schools will be sponsored, and schools across the network are now being encouraged to apply.

Participating schools are invited to access online safety broadcasts built around the tragic story of Harrison Ballantyne, who died after being electrocuted when he entered a rail freight depot. The campaign shows how electricity can jump from overhead lines, highlighting hidden dangers on the railway. A short film forms part of the programme, alongside age-appropriate online presentations designed for KS1, KS2, KS3, and SEND pupils.

Georgia Payne, Safeguarding and Community Safety Manager at Greater Anglia, said:

“This year, we are sponsoring another 150 schools, and the feedback from both pupils and teachers has been extremely positive. So far in this academic year, we have already reached 10 schools and almost 6,000 pupils, and we would encourage any schools that have not yet taken part to apply through the Rail Safe Friendly website.

“Safety is our absolute priority on the railway. The railway is not a playground, and people should never go on the tracks without permission. Anyone accessing the track without authority is risking their life and the lives of others.”

Stuart Heaton, Founder and Managing Director of the Rail Safe Friendly programme, said:

“We are delighted to continue our partnership with Greater Anglia to help expand the reach of the Rail Safe Friendly programme. Their commitment to supporting schools and prioritising the safety of young people is exemplary.

“Every child deserves to understand the risks around the railway, and by working with dedicated partners like Greater Anglia, we can ensure these life-saving messages reach even more pupils across the region. We look forward to welcoming additional schools onto the programme and supporting them with high-quality, engaging rail safety education.”

Any school served on the Greater Anglia network that would like to take part in the Rail Safe Friendly programme should apply via the Rail Safe Friendly website. Places are limited and will be allocated on a first-come, first-served basis.