Planning a school trip? Check with your insurer as RPA, Zurich plus others are covering genuine covid cancellations for individuals and whole bookings. A great boost for schools/parents concerned about financial implications. gov.uk/guidance/the-risk-pro…

Great to see so many #stokeschools appreciating the value of outdoor learning at this critical time - since Easter, 578 trips have happened or are planned for this term, which equates to 16,306 pupil days. Brilliant achievement! #schooltrips #ahoec #outdoorlearning #DfE

DfE update last night detailing guidance for day and overnight school trips - bit.ly/3w0D8UB. Headlines - keep to bubbles and contact your providers for reassurances that they are taking reasonable measures regarding hygiene, organisation and keeping bubbles separate.

Fantastic to see so many local trips being arranged for this term by Stoke schools. Yes all trips take planning and Covid means even more planning, but it's worth it! The children need these experiences more than ever so don't be put off. Contact your OEA for advice if unsure.

Major update - the DfE have announced that school day visits may re-start 'no earlier than 12/04' & domestic residentials for EXISTING BOOKINGS 'no earlier than 17/05'. It advises against entering into 'new financial commitments' at this point. Details: gov.uk/government/publicatio…

Hopefully today's the day that schools can start planning their trips again, and providers can start thinking about making some income. #DfE update on school visits due out imminently. Fingers crossed for some common sense... #outdoorlearning #brilliantresidentials #oeap

A great guide from the CLOtC for supporting schools using their school grounds more during Covid.

If providers are encouraging you to make new bookings for residentials, treat with caution and be 100% happy with their refund policy, and Ts Cs. Remember that any new booking that is cancelled due to Covid is highly unlikely to be insured. Consider contacting your insurer.

The much awaited announcement from DfE on the resumption of school trips has been delayed a further week until 22/3. If you have a day or residential trip planned for the summer term, your provider will hopefully know more on this date and will be able to advise on next steps.