Can they do more harm than good? Well, I know they can- DC was injured on his Yr5 residential and denied medical treatment basically because he has SN. He's refused to go on all others since then.
He's now about to leave school (Yr9, not UK system) and wants to go on their leavers residential. However, I'm not sure... Obviously we said he could go, but it seems to be so badly organised it could be a recipe for disaster. They've planned one day's activity that he can't join in due to SN - he has to take a book and sit with the teacher on the side. They have to take breakfast and lunch with them for the whole trip. When something gets broken on the room, all have to share the cost. Phones will be allowed the whole time (although they've had to sign to say they won't take photos or film anyone if they haven't agreed) and there is no bed time.
Now we've found out all 8 boys 15-16 yrs old are sharing a room - one bathroom, 4 single beds one large double and a sofa bed. DS says teacher has said they have to sort the sleeping arrangements themselves, and no one is allowed to shower.
Honestly not sure this is a good idea, or is it a rite of passage?
ETA I'm clearly influenced by the previous fiasco of the residential, and am having difficulty deciding.