School trips and off-site activities

There have been instances where pupils engaged in residential off-site activities have become ill with flu like symptoms. In line with the guidance being given due to the swine flu virus, medical advice has been to either isolate the pupils or to return them home.

Schools should consider the following when planning their trips:

all school should consider, that parents are asked to agree the arrangements for sending a pupil home early and who will meet the cost
if planning a visit abroad, schools must first check with the Foreign and Commonwealth Office website for information on swine flu (H1N1) or contact them on (020) 7008 1500
it is recommended that all participants on a foreign visit take their EHIC (European Health Insurance Card) with them
the group leader should always carry the summary sheet of the school trips insurance (word) ‘Off-Site Activities Policy’
the ‘Off-Site Activities Policy’ does cover medical emergencies abroad and on all school trips. The group leaders should contact the ACE helpline on (020) 7173 7798 for advice when faced with an emergency.