Health and Safety
The health and safety implications of taking students out on fieldwork are well documented. Concerns about potential risks and possible litigation are one reason for the decline of fieldwork in our schools.
Despite this, it is relatively simple to ensure that your trip is safe, and given the number of students who attend fieldtrips, accidents are rare. Needless to say, no field trip should be planned and undertaken without first ensuring the health, safety and welfare of all those involved.
The Outdoor Education Advisers’ Panel (OEAP) provides the main source of guidance for leaders and helpers in connection with adventure activities and for educational visits. We refer to their guidance frequently in our resources.
Legal responsibilities for school visits
Guidance on the legal responsibilities associated with school visits
Risk Management for school visits
Information about risk assessments and mitigating risk during school visits
Incident management for school visits
Guidance on dealing with incidents during school visits
Safety around water
Information on keeping your students safe around water
Transport safety
Things to think about regarding transport for school visits
Overseas visits for school groups
Guidance when planning overseas visits for schools