School trip

[LilBus]

Is it important for kids to go on residential school trips in primary? My son was really excited about a residential school trip (it’s the only one he’s school will do) for next year but the price is £450, he came out today with the forms and before I could say anything he said it’s ok mum I don’t need to go. I feel bad for him missing out but £450 seems like a LOT of money for a school residential. It’s 5 days and it’s in Surrey (we live in London so not far at all) just doesn’t seem worth it. Will all the other kids be going? Don’t want him feeling different or letting him down.

Is it the only one that he’ll have chance to go on?

Ours had residential trips in years 5 and 6 but it was a few years ago now and they weren’t as expensive as that but the whole class did go (one form entry primary school).

How affordable, or not is it for you?

Yes they only do one residential. Not at all tbh, I’m a lone parent so would just be me paying but obviously conscious of him missing out.

Approach the school, they may have some subsidy funds, especially if he is PP.

I worked in Y6 for 15 years. Not all children go and it's becoming more common for less children to go since the costs have gone up so much.

For most children it's a great experience and teaches them about getting along with others, forming close bonds with friends and doing things they may not otherwise have the opportunity to do. It increases their sense of independence and being able to cope just before they go to secondary, which is a big plus.

However, it really depends on the trip and what you feel your DS will get out of it, and whether it's value for money. Tbh the last 2 trips I went on were very much on the cheap (cost about £150 per pupil) and weren't great.