Educational visits policy: model and examples

An educational visits policy provides support for staff in the effective and safe planning and operation of school trips. This policy isn't statutory, but it's best practice to have one. Download our model policy with practical templates in the appendices, and see examples from other schools.

Last reviewed on 7 November 2023
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Contents
  1. Download our model policy
  2. Only prevent a pupil from going on a school trip where it is absolutely necessary
  3. Examples of school policies

Download our model policy

Our model policy is approved by Forbes Solicitors, and has instructions for you to adapt and make it your own.

Model policy: educational visits DOCX, 217.0 KB
Download

It includes:

  • A proposed visit planning information template for staff to use when seeking approval for educational visits
  • A risk assessment template
  • Volunteer behaviour guidance and code of conduct, for volunteers to sign

Only prevent a pupil from going on a school trip where it is absolutely necessary

You must take all necessary steps to consider ways you can allow a pupil to attend a school trip safely.

Document your thought processes and any steps you take, even if they aren't successful. Forbes Solicitors told us this, and helped us with the rest of this section. 

In some cases, it may be reasonable and necessary to prevent a pupil with challenging behaviour from coming on a trip to protect their safety and the safety of