More help for teachers to organise school trips

ENGLAND – Teachers and others will now find it easier to take young people out and about as schools minister Diana Johnson has launched a consultation on simple and straightforward guidance to cut red tape.

Activities outside the classroom have significant benefits for young people and help to bring learning to life. They support children to develop knowledge, understanding and skills beyond the classroom walls, through educational activities.

The new guidance will:

• help teachers and other staff to keep children safe by outlining their duties and giving helpful advice.
   
• help cut red tape by providing sample checklist forms to help save time.
   
• give teachers and others more confidence to organise trips by highlighting helpful schemes.
   
• highlight how employers should support their staff in the event of a child being hurt, so fears of legal action can be reduced.

Diana Johnson, Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State for Schools, said: “Most people remember their school trips as fun and valuable experiences. They are an important part of a child’s education and personal development, and I want to see schools, and youth groups, taking advantage of opportunities that learning outside the classroom can provide.

“We hope that this guidance will make life easier for teachers and break down some of the myths around being sued. The support and help will hopefully give them the confidence to organise school trips for the benefit and enjoyment of their pupils.”