Safety Guidelines for Education Outdoors

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Teachers

Excursions

Teachers participating in an excursion should:

  • understand the purpose of the program and its connection to student learning
  • be aware of their supervisory responsibilities throughout the program
  • know who is the nominated member of staff who will provide first aid if required
  • know the exact location of students they are responsible for at all times including during travel.

In addition the nominated teacher-in-charge should:

  • know the exact location of students at all times including during travel
  • maintain a record of telephone contacts for the supervising staff accompanying the excursion
  • know who the school contact person is and their phone number
  • have a copy of the names of family contacts for all students and staff on the excursion
  • have copies of the parental approval and medical advice forms for those students on the excursion
  • maintain a copy of the completed approval (Word - 146Kb) proforma (including all attachments) submitted to the school council
  • have submitted the Notification of School Activity three weeks prior to the excursion. (requires edumail password) 

Planning support

The following materials are essential to guiding the planning and approval process:

More information

If a teacher does not have detailed knowledge of and outdoor or adventure activities, it is recommended they seek further information and advice from:

  • Activity peak bodies, see: Resources.
  • Other teachers with recent experience instructing the activity who can offer an understanding of both the technical requirements and the educational context.
  • Victorian Schools Reference Guide.