Have you had approval to plan a school trip? If so, it’s time to get started! A well-planned trip can be a highlight of the school year, offering students a chance to learn, grow, and create lasting memories outside the classroom. However, organising a successful trip involves more than just booking a venue, it requires careful preparation to ensure it’s safe, engaging, and educational.
From choosing the right destination to handling logistics, there’s a lot to think about. But don’t worry, we know a thing or two about planning an unforgettable school trip, and we’re here to guide you through the process. In this blog, we’ll share our top tips to help you organise a smooth, stress-free, and rewarding experience for you and your students.
What Are the Benefits of a School Trip for Your Students?
School trips provide students with opportunities to help them learn and grow outside of the classroom. Whether you’re immersing your students in historical visits, learning more about cultural experiences or even mixing education with fun outdoor adventures, these trips offer valuable educational and personal benefits that can have a lasting impact on students of all ages.
- Educational enrichment – Putting their learning into real-life experiences helps them fully solidify and understand certain subject topics in a way that they wouldn’t be able to from inside the classroom. Whether students are exploring a museum, conducting fieldwork in nature or engaging in a hands-on science workshop, school trips deepen their understanding of subjects and help make learning more tangible and meaningful.
- Personal development – Taking students out of their usual classroom environment helps them not only develop educational skills but their personal skills too. It helps them to develop their independence, resilience and confidence. From managing their own belongings on an overnight trip to working as a team in problem-solving activities, these experiences help them build essential life skills that contribute to their personal growth.
- Increased engagement – Learning outside the classroom is exciting and immersive. A school provided a break from routine, speaking curiosity and enthusiasm. Whether it’s handling historical artefacts or participating in hands-on challenges, engaging experiences make learning more memorable and enjoyable.
- Physical and mental wellbeing – Outdoor adventure trips, in particular, help to promote an active lifestyle and boost mental resilience. Activities such as hiking, kayaking or team challenges not only improve physical fitness but also help students develop problem-solving skills, perseverance and confidence. Time spent in nature or engaging in new experiences can also reduce stress and improve overall well-being.
By taking students beyond the four walls of the classroom, school trips provide opportunities for both academic and personal growth. Whether reinforcing curriculum topics or encouraging independence and teamwork, they are an invaluable part of a well-rounded education.
What Different Types of School Trips Could You Take Your Students On?
There are a variety of different school trips out there, each offering different and unique learning outcomes. The type of trip your school will depend on a number of different factors, such as your students’ age group, curriculum goals and desired outcomes. Here are some popular options:
- Outdoor adventure trips – This could include camps, residential trips and outdoor activity centres. Here, your students can partake in activities such as climbing, kayaking or orienteering to help build their confidence and teamwork, which will also further develop their independence, resilience and problem-solving skills.
- Museums and Historial Site Visits – Opting for school trips to museums and historical sites offers a more hands-on learning experience for subjects such as history, science or art. Students can learn more about ancient artefacts, historical landmarks or interactive exhibitions which they can link back to their studies.
- Theatre and Cultural Experiences – Trips to the theatre, concerts or cultural sites help your students really engage with the arts, which links back to core subjects such as literature, drama or performing arts. Not only is it a fun experience for students to see, it encourages their creativity, critical thinking and cultural awareness, which they can then use when talking about those creative subjects.
- International trips – International trips are a great way to allow your students to expand and enhance a wide range of skills. Not only will it help them strengthen any languages they are studying, but it can also help them to enhance their communication skills where language barriers may be in place. They’ll also be able to learn the importance of different cultures and the history behind them from first-hand experience. International trips are great at encouraging independence, adaptability and global awareness.
Key Considerations Before You Start Planning
Before diving into the logistics of organising a school trip, there are a few essential factors to consider. Proper planning at the early stages can help avoid issues later and ensure a smooth, successful experience for both students and teachers.
- Budget and funding options
One of the biggest factors to consider is cost. Things you’ll need to consider include:
- The overall cost per student, including transportation, accommodation (if applicable), entry or ticket fees, meals, and extra expenses
- Funding options – some trips might qualify for grant sponsorships or funding programmes.
- Affordability for families – Making sure the trip is financially accessible to as many students as possible.
If cost is a concern, consider flexible payment plans or exploring sponsorship opportunities from local businesses or educational charities.
- Age-appropriate trips
Choosing the right trip for your students’ age is crucial. Factors you should consider include:
- Physical and emotional readiness – younger students may struggle with long journeys or overnight stays.
- Curriculum alignment – Ensuring the trip ties into key topics relevant to their studies
- Supervision and group dynamics – Younger students may need a higher staff-to-student ratio for safety and support.
Making sure the trip is suitable for your student’s maturity and abilities will help them make the most of their educational trips.
- Risk assessments and Safeguarding
Student safety is a top priority on all school trips. Take these steps to ensure a safe experience for all students:
- Carrying out a full risk assessment – Identifying potential hazards and implementing measures to minimise risks.
- Checking venue safety procedures – Ensuring accommodations, transport providers, and activity organisers meet required safety standards.
- Medical and emergency planning – Gathering medical information for all students, assigning first-aid staff, and having clear procedures in place for emergencies.
- Staffing and supervision – Ensuring an appropriate ratio of staff and volunteers to students, with all supervisors fully briefed on safeguarding responsibilities.
By addressing these considerations early on, you can ensure a well-organised, safe, and enriching trip for your students.
Top 5 Tips for Teachers Planning a School Trip
Now we’ve established the importance of school trips and given you some inspiration on what to choose, here are our top tips to make planning your school trip a smooth and simple process.
1. Decide on your learning outcomes
Have a think about what you’d like your students to take away from the trip. Whether it’s fostering teamwork, promoting leadership skills, or exploring the wonders of the great outdoors, deciding on your learning outcomes can help you shape the rest of your trip.
At PGL, our trips can help students develop a range of valuable skills! In fact, we have outdoor adventures that do exactly that:
- UNITE! adventures designed to improve Relationships (for Years 6-7)
- PIONEER! adventures designed for young adventurers to try new Experiences in nature and the great outdoors (for Years 3 & 4)
- MASTER! adventures designed to hone bushcraft Abilities (Year 5)
- GROW! adventures designed to strengthen Character (Year 7-9)
- THRIVE! adventures designed to support Health & Wellbeing (Year 7-11)
2. Choose your kind of adventure
School trips offer a fantastic opportunity to bring learning to life outside the classroom. To make the most of this experience, it’s important to first consider the primary educational goals you want to achieve. What kind of learning adventure will best support your curriculum and engage your students?
Do you envision a focused field study designed to deepen understanding of specific curriculum topics through direct observation and hands-on activities? Perhaps a residential experience that fosters independence, teamwork, and learning in a new environment? Or maybe an experiential learning trip centred around a particular subject or skill development?
The most impactful school trips are those that are thoughtfully aligned with your curriculum and ignite student curiosity. Geography field trips over a local river or coastline help to understand physical processes, such as erosion and deposition. Students could collect data on water flow, observe coastal defences, and analyze the impact of human activity on the environment. This directly links to learning objectives about human and physical geography and environmental change.
A visit to an art gallery or a historical architectural site can support curriculum outcomes focused on developinga critical and contextual understanding of art, architecture, and design. Students can analyze different styles, techniques, and historical contexts, informing their own creative practice and their ability to critically evaluate creative works.
3. Plan Early
You’ve got time on your side when you start to plan a school trip early. Avoid any last-minute panics and give yourself plenty of time to explore all the amazing opportunities on offer to your pupils. It also means you can effectively organise all of the logistics for accommodation, travel and permission from parents. You can make sure your journey is as smooth as can be by planning a school trip early.
4. Research Activities
Once you’ve nailed down the big picture, it’s time to dive into the specifics and plan the activities for your school trip. If you’re visiting a place like PGL, explore your activity options and choose those that best fit your learning goals. For field trips, design engaging educational activities that spark curiosity and excitement in your students.
5. Pick Your Destination
The world is your classroom! It’s up to you to choose where you’ll take your learners. Do you want to broaden their horizons with a trip to another country, or would you prefer to explore the rich learning opportunities closer to home?
Consider the educational focus you’ve defined and think about locations that directly support those goals. Are there local historical sites, natural environments, museums, or cultural centres that align with your curriculum? Perhaps a longer journey to a significant landmark or a region with unique geographical or historical importance would provide a more immersive experience.
Think about the practicalities too- travel time, accommodation options (if needed), and the overall cost. Whether you opt for a local exploration or an international adventure, the key is to select a destination that offers meaningful learning opportunities and sparks excitement in your students.
Need Help with Drafting up Your First School Trip Letter? We’ve got you covered!
When planning a school trip, spreading the word and getting parents on board is crucial for a successful trip. Start by clearly communicating the details of the trip through letters, emails, and school meetings, ensuring parents understand the purpose, itinerary, and any costs involved. Use engaging language to highlight the educational and fun aspects of the trip, and offer opportunities for parents to ask questions. Discover our top tips for writing your school trip letter below.
How to write a school trip letter
Planning a School Trip Checklist
Making your school trip planning even simpler, here’s a handy checklist you can use to help you cross off and not miss the important things.
1. Initial Planning
- Draft a trip proposal outlining learning objectives and educational value.
- Get approval from school leadership and relevant authorities.
- Choose a suitable destination and type of trip.
2. Budget and Funding
- Outline a budget covering transport, accommodation, meals, and activities.
- Research funding options, grants, or fundraising opportunities.
- Calculate the cost per student and set up payment plans if needed.
3. Risk Assessment and Safety
- Conduct a risk assessment covering all aspects of the trip.
- Review safeguarding policies and emergency procedures.
- Check venue and transport providers’ safety credentials.
4. Logistics and Booking
- Confirm venue and activity bookings.
- Arrange transport and accommodation if required.
- Plan meal options, including dietary requirements.
5. Permissions and Student Preparation
- Distribute permission slips and medical forms to parents/guardians.
- Collect emergency contact details and medical information.
- Arrange travel insurance if needed.
6. Staffing and Supervision
- Determine staff-to-student ratios and recruit chaperones.
- Assign staff roles and responsibilities.
- Hold a briefing session to discuss expectations and safety protocols.
7. Final Preparations
- Create a detailed itinerary with timings and key contacts.
- Pack essential documents, including student lists, first-aid kits, and emergency plans.
- Communicate final trip details with parents and students.
By following this checklist, you can ensure your school trip is well-organised, safe, and enjoyable for both students and staff.
Outdoor adventure camps with PGL!
We hope this helped you with planning a school trip that blends education and excitement. If you’re interested in booking with us, our residential school trips offer pupils an experience they’ll never forget!
We have a fantastic range of day activities and amazing entertainment into the evening too for primary schools and secondary schools! If you’d like us to create your students’ itinerary then leave it to us, or discuss your preferences with our experts.
At PGL, we have an exceptional offering of trips, locations and activities to enjoy, so get in touch today to discuss your next school trip.
Outdoor adventure camps with PGL!
We hope this helped you with planning a school trip that blends education and excitement. If you’re interested in booking with us, our residential school trips offer pupils an experience they’ll never forget!
We have a fantastic range of day activities and amazing entertainment into the evening too for primary schools and secondary schools! If you’d like us to create your students’ itinerary then leave it to us, or discuss your preferences with our experts.
At PGL, we have an exceptional offering of trips, locations and activities to enjoy, so get in touch today to discuss your next school trip.
