Head of Establishments Checklist

Checks to be completed:

• The visit has suitable aims and effective ways of achieving them
• The visit leader is competent to manage and monitor the risks throughout the visit

• The destination is low risk and there are no relevant security issues or incidents which need to be considered

• Child protection procedures are in place

• Appropriate risk assessments have been completed and proportionate safety measures are in place

• Training needs have been assessed by a competent person and the needs of the staff and participants have been considered

• Communication with parents has been carried out and parents have been appropriately informed of all aspects of the excursion and the risks involved and the necessary permissions obtained

• Parents and pupils have been briefed on any financial risks associated with the trip should it need to be called off

• Suitable financial arrangements are in place both to finance the excursion and safely manage currency and access to cash during the excursion

• The visit leader has suitable experience and competencies for the visit

• The visit leader has attended adventurous overseas training sessions, where appropriate

• Visit leaders are allowed sufficient time to organise visits properly

• Visit assistants and other accompanying adults in a supervisory role are appropriately recruited and briefed

• The ratio of other accompanying adults to participants is appropriate
• The Authority has approved the visit, if appropriate

• Arrangements have been made for the medical needs and additional support needs of all the participants

• The Authority’s policy on the administration of medicines has been followed
• Appropriate first aid provision will be available to meet the needs of the participants
• The mode of travel and travel arrangements are appropriate
• Effective contact arrangements are in place

• Emergency arrangements, if required, are in place and have been communicated to those who need to know

• There is a contingency plan for any delays including a late return home

Downloadable version of the Head of Establishments Checklist

Download: Head of Establishments Checklist (PDF)