With two fatal collisions in the Ballarat area in the last week, Ballarat Highway Patrol is imploring drivers to slow down to 40km/h and keep their eyes on the road for excited students, who are returning to school this week after months of home learning.

Senior Sergeant Stuart Gale said concentration was vital for any driver, but especially around school zones where there is an abundance of pedestrians.

"Keep an eye out for warning signs before school zones so you don't miss them and then slow down," he said.

Senior Sergeant Gale said students, whether walking or riding their bikes, would be excited to be back at school and around their friends so drivers needed to be vigilant around drop-off and pick-up times.

"Our kids are vulnerable road users and unfortunately they do take risks on roads, so drivers need to pay attention and watch out for them," he said.

The return to school comes as more social restrictions ease, with police noting that roads are becoming busier.

Parents and carers should remember to park in designated areas to complete the daily drop off and pick up, and be patient and courteous - this includes ensuring they're not double parked.

"Leave plenty of time to get to school and find a park where you can drop your kids off safely," Senior Sergeant Gale said.

"There is also the option of parking some distance away and walking to school."

Having been at home for some time, he said it could also be worthwhile for parents to have a refresher conversation with their children about how to safely cross roads and use shared footpaths.

Speed limits outside schools are reduced to 40km/h from 8am to 9.30am, and from 2.30pm to 4pm.

Senior Sergeant Gale said police would be enforcing this speed limit.

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