How to run a successful school trip abroad

This blog post is inspired by a great conversation I had with Claire Wilson for the Kate Languages Podcast, all about taking a school trip abroad. 

Here are Claire's top 5 things to think about before you take a school trip abroad...

1. Risk assessments

Check/adapt existing risk assessments - you don’t need to create your own from scratch. Ask your Local Authority or Trust if your school doesn’t have relevant ones. Ensure you have individual risk assessments for students with SEND and/or medical needs (eg. allergies).

2. Travel company or DIY? 

An advantage of planning it yourself is that you can keep costs down. But, if you use a (good!) travel company, it removes a lot of stress and organising for you. There is the reassurance of backup insurance and expert knowledge of the place you’re visiting.

3. Plan at least 8-9 months in advance

Planning well ahead gives you time to set up a payment plan for parents, research day trips, ensure all risk assessments are done, everyone has passports, etc.

4. Non-British passport holders

Everyone with a non-British passport needs evidence of pre-settled or settled status, and they might need a visa. This is the parents’ responsibility to sort out.

5. Mobile phones

Have a very clear mobile phone policy for students and take a school mobile phone. All students and parents should have the school mobile phone number. Have “phone free time” for example at dinner, to encourage students to chat about the day.