Overseas
Visits abroad
Overseas trips often need additional checks on medical cover, local laws and emergency procedures. Confirm these before departure.
Travel cover for educational visits
How travel-related risks are handled under the DfE Risk Protection Arrangement, from domestic day trips to overseas visits.
What to check before a trip
Travel is one of the higher-risk activities a school or trust organises. The scheme sets out what it covers and what it does not, so read the terms against your planned trip rather than assuming.
- Confirm whether the destination, mode of transport and duration fall within the scheme's stated scope.
- Check that the trip has been approved through your own governance and risk process.
- Ensure staff ratios, first aid cover and emergency contacts are recorded for every group.
- Keep copies of pupil consent, medical forms and itinerary in one place.
Planning a trip step by step
A well-documented plan supports any later claim and is the best protection for pupils and staff.
Step 1
Assess the destination
Review local risks, travel advice and healthcare arrangements. Record the assessment before any bookings are confirmed.
Step 2
Confirm scope with the scheme
Ask the RPA team whether the planned travel is covered and whether any notification is required before departure.
Step 3
Prepare the group
Brief pupils, parents and staff. Collect consent, medical information and emergency contacts for each participant.
Step 4
Record the trip
Keep a log of movements, incidents and communications during the visit. This record is valuable if a claim follows.
Responsibility during the journey
Transport arrangements, driver checks and seating plans all form part of the risk picture. Make sure the operator is competent and that the journey plan is shared with the school office.
Typical travel questions
Incidents
Reporting during a trip
Report any significant incident to the school leadership team and to the scheme as soon as it is safe to do so.
Visual reference
Frequently asked questions
Some trips may need notice or pre-approval. Check the membership pack and confirm with the RPA team for any overseas or higher-risk visit.
Cover for staff and pupils depends on the scheme terms and the trip type. Confirm the position for each group in advance.
Before you book, speak to the RPA team. Contact us, read the scheme FAQ or open the membership pack.