Educational visits Adults should take care supervising pupils on trips & outings, where the setting is less formal than the usual workplace. Adults are in a position of trust and their behaviour should remain professional at all times. The owners/managers of establishments used for visits from educational settings are responsible for ensuring that: o They comply with health & safety regulations o The setting & equipment is fit for purpose o Their staff are trained in safeguarding and have appropriate CRB checks completed Prior to booking any visit or trip, consider issues around staff and volunteer: Suitability Having received appropriate & up to date safeguarding training Understanding of ‘abuse of trust’ Having up to date CRB checks The Educational Visits Coordinator must be informed & obtain permission from: The Governing Body in principle, including assurance about risk assessments The Head Teacher for approval for each trip to go ahead You should also ensure/consider: o Specific safeguarding issues relating to a child/young person included on the trip o Security and surveillance is appropriate o Separate bedrooms for boys and girls o Location of staff bedrooms allow ensure adequate supervision of children o Staff to child ratios and gender issues Version 5a, September 2010
o Fire practice, health & safety issues and risk assessment of the visit including travel o Intimate care & personal hygiene issues o First aid person needed on every trip Day Visits: o If the venue is a large public attraction with no specialist activities undertake a pre-visit to gauge the suitability of the venue before making any arrangements o If the venue has an element of adventure use the Local Authority 'Provider Form' (on the Thornbridge website) to seek assurances from the owner/manager o A Group Risk Assessment must be carried out by you for the children visiting from your setting Overnight stays: o Separate bedrooms for boys and girls o Location of staff bedrooms to ensure adequate supervision For all trips, permission is required from a person with parental responsibility.
Useful web links/resources: •
•
•
Health and Safety of Pupils on Educational Visits, DfES at: http://publications.teachernet.gov.uk/eOrdering Download/HSPV2.pdf Thornbridge Outdoor Centre, Sheffield City Council at: www.thornbridgeoutdoors.co.uk Health and Safety on Educational Visits, Teachernet at: www.teachernet.gov.uk/wholeschool/healthand safety/visits
www.safeguardingsheffieldchildren.org.uk