Planning a school trip can be a daunting prospect for teachers and school administrators alike. However, taking the initiative to book in advance can significantly ease the process, ensuring a smooth and enjoyable experience filled with adventure and fun. In this blog, we’ll explore the benefits of early planning, from securing preferences to enhancing learning opportunities.
Why plan a school trip early?
1. Enhanced preparation time
When you start planning early, you give yourself ample time to research and choose the right PGL programme that aligns with your educational goals and student needs. Whether it’s the THRIVE! programme focused on wellbeing or the PIONEER! programme aimed at introducing younger pupils to outdoor adventures, early planning allows you to carefully evaluate all options and select the best fit.
2. Secure your preferred dates and centre
One of the primary advantages of planning a school trip early is the ability to secure your preferred dates and accommodation. Popular dates for school trips can fill up quickly, leaving you with limited options if you wait until the last minute. By booking ahead, you can ensure your group gets the best slots available at your preferred centre.
3. Save money
Early planning allows parents more time to budget for the trip. By giving them advance notice, you can help alleviate any financial stress associated with the costs, making it easier for families to get involved.
Moreover, PGL offers special discounts and offers that can lead to significant savings. With our Multi Booking Discount, schools can save up to £40pp on each trip when they book two different year group trips within 28 days of each other. Additionally, our Return and Save offer encourages schools to come back for more adventures at a reduced price. For more details, check out our One Price Promise and Investing in Adventures pages.
3. Enhance learning opportunities
An early-planned trip opens the door for reflection and learning opportunities. Educators can tie the trip into ongoing lessons, allowing students to discuss and prepare for the experience well in advance. After the trip, there’s time for reflection and sharing experiences, further reinforcing the learning objectives.
4. Reduce last-minute stress
Planning a trip can be stressful, especially when done at the last minute. By starting the process early, teachers and organisers can take their time to manage logistics, coordinate with our team, and handle any unexpected issues that may arise. It also means you can let us know any dietary requirements and specific needs for your class to ensure we can make sure everything is covered. This thoughtful approach leads to a more relaxed atmosphere leading up to the trip.
5. Get parents on board
One of the biggest challenges in organising a school trip can be getting parents on board. By planning a school trip early, you provide plenty of notice for parental consent and participation. What’s more, it enables them to ask questions and feel informed about the trip’s details, from the itinerary to what their children need to pack. Keeping parents in the loop builds trust and excitement within the school community, fostering a supportive environment.
6. Enjoy the build-up!
Finally, an early approach creates excitement and anticipation among students and staff. By involving students in the planning process, you can ensure they understand the relevance of the trip to their studies, enhancing their engagement and enthusiasm.
The build-up to the trip can be just as rewarding as the experience itself, as students discuss their upcoming adventure and teachers prepare them for what’s to come.
For more helpful tips, check out our top 5 tips for planning a school trip.
Book your next school trip with PGL now!
If you’re ready to give your students an unforgettable experience, consider booking a PGL residential trip! With a range of programmes and outdoor activities designed to inspire and educate, PGL is your go-to partner for primary and secondary school adventures.
Get in touch to discover how we can help make your next school trip a success! Don’t wait—the best time to book is now!
