School trip advice

[heymrdj]

This year I have been working in a secondary school as an assistant. I have no teaching qualifications, but like in many places the school is desperate for staff and I am fluent in one of the languages they teach. It’s been going great, I‘ve really enjoyed it and am hoping to get qualified.

At the end of the month I am going on a school trip with year 9, 10 and 11 (a small school- this is 30 students). We will be staying in a city, I will be there for the first 2.5 days. I will be the only female adult (the form teachers are male, and another female teacher will be attending for the second half of the week).

I am getting so nervous about it! I have never done anything like this before. Does anyone have any tips for me? Things to watch out for? Or just reassuring words!

Ask to see the risk assessment and the full plans for the trip.
Check there is sanpro being taken in case needed (since that's the issue most likely to be delegated to you).
Keep counting the kids when out and about.
Be vigilant for things like alcohol.

If you are visiting places that require certain types of dress you might be required to have a sensitive conversation with any girls dressing in a less than conservative manner.
They'll need reminding to wear suncreams and bring a drink

Don’t lose any children. That’s the thing that always scares me on school trips. I am forever doing head counts.

As the female member of staff - have a supply of sanitary products. Don't go broadcasting that you have them but let a couple of girls know from different friendship groups that you have stuff if anyone needs. I am a trip leader for a residential we run and will usually make small talk with the girls when bringing luggage etc in and try and just discreetly (although usually not but I'd rather the awkwardness than a girl feel stuck) let them know.

It will be great. You'll be a female ear when needed. Good call re sanitary products.

Thanks for the great tips! I’m feeling a bit more prepared now 😅

When boarding tubes/trains, be aware of where your group are sitting and ensure they get off before you. How old are they? There should be a protocol decided beforehand about what happens if they get stuck on a train.