A field trip is one of the most exciting parts of school life. It is an amalgamation of adventure and spending time with friends while learning more about the world. As enjoyable as it is for kids, the parents and teachers get a little tired because they have to constantly watch the kids and instruct them carefully on what to do and what not to do.
There are many things to remember while planning a field trip. You need to know where to go, the date and time of departure, where exactly to rent coach buses for the journey, and so much else. But as long as you keep certain things in mind, planning a field trip should be as easy as cake.
1. The Destination
While traveling without maps and roads might sound fantastic, it can spell disaster while on a field trip, so you need to plan how exactly you want to take the kids. Since field trips are designed to be educational, choosing a place that can provide kids with just that is important. It can be a famous museum, art gallery, or zoological park, but make sure it does enough to contribute to the subject’s overall learning. Before you fully decide on the destination, make sure to call the particular place up and make sure that the museum or zoo remains open while you people are visiting.
2. Booking the buses
Since you will be taking your class and some of their parents as chaperones, you will need an appropriate bus for the tour. You can rent coach or charter buses for the kind of trip you will be making. These buses usually have restrooms, air conditioning, and even WiFi if you want to remain connected. Since there will be a lot of children, the toilets will be of great advantage. The air conditioning will be comforting for long trips, and the seating arrangements will be adequate for everyone.
Emergency stops
Map out the roads first, and chalk out the pit stops to want to take a break if need be. Someone might even fall sick or feel nauseated during the trip, so chalk out a proper stop if you or the driver need to take a break.
Packing all the important stuff
You should list all the things you will or will likely require on the trip, and you should instruct your students to do the same. Passports, torches, sleeping bags, first aid kits, identity documents, a fresh set of clothes and underwear, a netted bag for dirty clothes, a neck holder, notebooks, pencils, a camera (to document zoo visits), measuring equipment, and wind jacket or raincoats. Pack all these in a backpack lined with a waterproof fabric- it will be very helpful against the rain.
Choose your tour guide beforehand.
It would help if you chose a guide who will be friendly and helpful because you will have kids with you. So brash tour guides will be an unpleasant addition.
Contact the Venue
You must call the venue to inform them you will require some necessary amenities. Let them know how many people will be coming, sort them into groups of adults and children, and specify the places you are most likely to visit and when you will be arriving there. Also, keep your options open regarding the venues, as some might be more affordable than others.
Keep your emergency contacts handy if something untoward happens and you need to reach out for damage control. Ensure you have a backup location ready so that if one museum remains closed, you can visit another in a different city. If you follow these tips, I guarantee that you will enjoy a smooth and easy field trip.
