Planning and organising off-site activities

Download the full document guidance procedures for the planning and organisation of off-site activities by Islington schools

Download Generic Risk Assessment forms

Educational activities that take place off site are of immense benefit to pupils offering them first hand experiences of different environments and cultures that are not available in the classroom and supplement their learning. These activities can help develop a pupil's investigative skills, independence and self-esteem. CEA@Islington actively supports the use of such activities in pupils' learning throughout their education.

This document is provided to assist primary, secondary and special schools and pupil referral units in the London Borough of Islington with the planning, preparation and delivery of off-site activities. However, all concerned in the organisation of these activities need to appreciate that no guidelines could cover every possible set of circumstances. The supervision by adults of such activities requires the implementation of a constant assessment of the level of risk involved at all times along with the application of common sense and sound judgement. References to "headteacher" apply to the Head of the Establishment while "teacher" applies to a member of staff with responsibility. "Pupils" can be taken to apply to any young person involved in an off-site activity.

This guidance has made extensive use of the DfES document Health and Safety of Pupils on Educational Visits (HASPE) - (DfES 1998) and the more recent supplementary advice from the DfESL:

• Health and Safety Responsibilities and Powers (DfES 0803/2001)
• Standards for LEAs in Overseeing Educational Visits (DfES 0564/2002)
• Standards for Adventure (DfES 0565/2002)
• A Handbook for Group Leaders (DfES 0566/2002)

These documents do not lay down any new mandatory requirements. They are intended to enable schools and CEA@Islington to access good practice drawing on the advice already received and what works well in practice. In addressing their existing legal responsibilities, schools within CEA@Islington are invited to consider this guidance but are free to modify it in the light of their own needs and circumstances.