When Can Pupils Return to Educational Visits?

The below reflects guidance as at 28 June 2021.

Educational Day Visits

Educational day visits are able to resume, subject to visits being conducted in line with relevant COVID-secure guidelines. This includes system of controls, such as keeping children within their consistent groups and the COVID-secure measures in place at the destination.

Schools should undertake thorough risk assessments in relation to all educational visits to ensure they can be undertaken safely. As part of this risk assessment, schools should consider what control measures need to be used and follow wider advice on visiting indoor and outdoor venues. Schools should also consult the health and safety guidance on educational visits when considering visits.

Domestic Residential Educational Visits

Schools can undertake domestic residential education visits in line with relevant COVID-19 guidelines. Children should be kept within their consistent groups (bubbles) for the purpose of the visit.

Further Government guidance relating to risk assessments and systems of control can be located here. Consideration should also be given to insurance, and the availability of insurance to provide adequate financial protection. Schools should speak to either their commercial insurance provider, the Risk Protection Arrangement (RPA) or an outdoor education adviser to assess the protection available and make sure it provides suitable protection in the event of a COVID-19 related cancellation. If unsure contact organisations such as the British Insurance Brokers’ Association (BIBA) or Association of British Insurers (ABI) for independent advice on insurance cover and options.

International Visits

Given the complexities attached to international travel at this stage of the pandemic, Government guidance recommends schools do not go on any international visits this academic year up to and including 5 September 2021.

Do you have further questions in relation to wider school activities during coronavirus? Please contact Yvonne Spencer on 0207 665 0870, or complete our form below.