Updated government guidance published on 11th May 2021:
Extract from the current government guidance. The full document is available here
Educational visits
We recognise the significant benefits of educational visits for children’s educational development, as well as their mental health and wellbeing. We are taking steps to allow pupils to enjoy visits in line with the government’s roadmap.
The roadmap is driven by data, not dates. The government will only move from one step to the next when it is safe to do so and based on 4 tests.
For that reason, all dates are indicative and subject to change. This advice has now been updated to reflect the Prime Minister’s announcement regarding Step 3. Advice will continue to be updated in line with the roadmap.
Educational day visits
In line with the roadmap, schools were able to resume educational day visits from 12 April.
Any educational day visits must be conducted in line with relevant COVID-secure guidelines and regulations in place at that time. This includes system of controls, such as keeping children within their consistent groups and the COVID-secure measures in place at the destination. You should undertake full and thorough risk assessments in relation to all educational visits to ensure they can be undertaken safely. As part of this risk assessment, you will need to consider what control measures need to be used and follow wider advice on visiting indoor and outdoor venues. You should consult the health and safety guidance on educational visits when considering visits.
Domestic residential educational visits
In line with the roadmap, schools can undertake domestic residential education visits, from 17 May.
Any domestic residential educational visits must be conducted in line with relevant COVID-19 guidance and regulations in place at that time.
You should keep children within their consistent groups (bubbles) for the purpose of the visit.
Risk assessment for residential educational visits
Annex C sets out the conditions that should be met when planning and undertaking a residential educational visit as part of Step 3.
You should undertake full and thorough risk assessments in relation to all educational visits to ensure they can be undertaken safely. You should consider the principles set out in the system of controls and annex C to assure yourself that you are taking children into a safe environment.