Education Sector

School Trip Risk Assessment: Best Practices for 2026

January 10, 20266 min read

With duty of care requirements becoming more stringent, schools must adopt comprehensive risk assessment frameworks. Learn how leading institutions are balancing educational value with student safety through systematic planning and real-time monitoring.

The Evolving Landscape of School Travel

Educational travel has transformed significantly in recent years. Schools face increasing scrutiny from regulators, parents, and insurers regarding how they manage risks during off-site activities. The challenge lies in maintaining the educational benefits of travel while meeting heightened safety expectations.

Core Elements of Effective Risk Assessment

A robust school trip risk assessment should include: pre-visit reconnaissance or provider verification, activity-specific hazard identification, participant capability assessment, emergency response planning, communication protocols, and supervision ratio calculations. Each element must be documented and reviewed before departure.

BS 8848 Compliance for Overseas Ventures

For overseas expeditions, BS 8848 provides the benchmark standard. This requires schools to verify that external providers meet recognized safety standards, have appropriate insurance, and can demonstrate competent leadership. Schools should request evidence of ISO 21101 certification or equivalent.

Technology-Enhanced Monitoring

Modern risk management increasingly incorporates technology solutions. Real-time location tracking, digital check-in systems, and mobile communication apps enable better oversight during trips. However, technology should complement rather than replace thorough planning and competent supervision.

Post-Trip Review and Learning

Continuous improvement requires systematic post-trip evaluation. Document any incidents or near-misses, gather feedback from staff and students, and update risk assessments based on lessons learned. This creates an institutional memory that strengthens future planning.

Key Takeaways

Document all risk assessments before departure
Verify external provider credentials and certifications
Establish clear communication protocols
Maintain appropriate supervision ratios
Conduct post-trip reviews for continuous improvement

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