Before the Adventure: Policies, Procedures, Risk & the ‘Why’

Before any outdoor education program or school trip begins, success relies on well-structured procedures, clear policies, and a strong approach to risk management. This session explores the key pre-trip and pre-program considerations that ensure safety, effectiveness, and alignment with educational goals.

From developing robust risk assessments to establishing emergency protocols, we will discuss how thoughtful preparation enhances both participant experience and program integrity. There will also be an opportunity to explore the ‘why?’, ensuring that staff and leadership fully understand the rationale behind trips, policies, and procedures. Clear understanding enables confident communication with students and parents about decision-making processes.

While the focus will be on outdoor education, these principles apply across school operations, promoting best practices in risk management and trip planning.