Pull quote: “Taking a break from the routine of classroom learning can help reduce stress and increase motivation. School trips provide a change of scenery and a chance to recharge.”
School trips offer a wide range of benefits for children’s development and education, yet in a recent study it was revealed that nearly two-thirds of teachers are less likely to plan school trips now compared to five years ago – as parents worry they can’t afford it.
Six in ten teachers (61%) said they are less likely to plan an educational day out now than they were five years ago. The cost-of-living has played a major role in the dwindling numbers of school trips, with teachers and parents alike mindful of costs such as travel, entry fees, and additional expenses parents may have to cover.
A poll of 433 UK teachers, conducted by Hyundai, found that over half (56%) who have organised a school trip in the 2021-22 academic year have had it cancelled or not approved – due to too much paperwork or “red tape”.
Other key reasons for not having a school trip signed off include a lack of school funding, and not enough staff volunteers.
However, unsurprisingly young people have given their support to school trips with an overwhelming response to a separate study about visits and the impact they have on education.
The study, carried out by VotesforSchools, asked almost 32,000 primary, secondary and 16+ students, their views on school trips.
More than 90% of primary and secondary pupils said they agreed that you should go on school trips.
96% of those aged 12-16 said yes while 93% of pupils aged 5-11 showed their support for educational visits.
School trips have numerous benefits for students for a myriad of reasons, here are just some of them:
Experiential Learning: School trips provide hands-on, real-world learning experiences that go beyond traditional classroom teaching. Children have the chance to apply theoretical knowledge to practical situations, enhancing their understanding of concepts.
Engagement and Interest: School trips can spark interest and curiosity in subjects that might otherwise seem dry or challenging. Visiting museums, historical sites, science centres, or natural environments can make learning more engaging and enjoyable.
Cultural Awareness: Exposing children to different cultures, traditions, and ways of life helps foster open-mindedness and respect for diversity. It broadens their perspective and promotes tolerance.
Social Skills: School trips encourage teamwork, collaboration, and communication among students. They have to interact with peers, teachers, and sometimes strangers, improving their social skills and ability to adapt to new situations.
Independence and Responsibility: Being away from home and the classroom environment allows children to develop a sense of independence and responsibility. They learn to manage their belongings, follow instructions, and make decisions in a controlled environment.
Critical Thinking: School trips often involve problem-solving and decision-making. Children may need to navigate unfamiliar places, plan routes, and think on their feet, thus enhancing their critical thinking skills.
Memorable Experiences: Positive memories from school trips tend to stick with children for a long time. These experiences can serve as a foundation for future learning and inspire a lifelong interest in certain subjects.
Physical Activity: Trips that involve outdoor activities or exploration of nature promote physical exercise and a healthy lifestyle, contributing to the overall well-being of children.
Stress Reduction: Taking a break from the routine of classroom learning can help reduce stress and increase motivation. School trips provide a change of scenery and a chance to recharge.
Practical Life Skills: Depending on the nature of the trip, children might learn practical skills such as map reading, budgeting, time management, and basic first aid.
Connection to Curriculum: Many school trips are designed to align with the curriculum, reinforcing what children are learning in the classroom. This can help students see the practical applications of what they’re studying.
Positive Teacher-Student Relationships: School trips provide an opportunity for teachers and students to interact in a more relaxed and informal setting. This can strengthen the teacher-student relationship and create a more positive classroom environment.
Overall, school trips contribute to a well-rounded education by complementing classroom learning with real-world experiences. They help children develop skills, attitudes, and knowledge that extend beyond textbooks and traditional teaching methods. Scroll over to check out some of our favourite places that you may want to propose for your next school trip.
