School field trips can be rewarding, but
more often than not, you get an earful off parents, because little Jimmy fell
over and sprained his wrist. Unfortunately, you’re not god, and incidents will
happen when you leave the classroom. But you shouldn’t let that deter you from
bravely booking tickets to see a Hamlet performance or visit the Science
museum. Everyone benefits from an informative day outside of the classroom.
Reign
In Challenging Behaviour
Before the field trip goes ahead, make sure
that every child is aware of your behavioural expectations. Level with them.
Children respond well to being treated maturely; not patronised because of
their age. Treat them like brats and they’ll act accordingly.
Tell them that you hope it can be a fun day
for everyone, but that you expect adult behaviour. Let them know that you’re
taking a zero tolerance stance towards any disruptive attitudes and that their
parents have been notified that, by allowing their child to take part on the
trip, they’re responsible for picking up their kid, should their child act
out.
Once all the heavy stuff is out of the way,
focus on the positive, and say that you have every faith that they’ll make you
proud in public. Maintain that you think no-one will be a problem.
Kit
List
Kit lists are so important. Make sure that
everyone has weather-appropriate clothing, water, snacks, and backpacks to
carry all the necessities. Sopping wet, cold kids really won’t enjoy
themselves.
Always
Enlist Help
Ideally, you’ll want help from fellow
teachers and parents on this trip. They can help you keep the class in order
and you can play off each other’s strengths. A fierce teacher that strikes fear
into the hearts of the children is a necessary ally, as well as an empathetic
soul that can deal with any emotional problems.
If you’re taking parents, sit down with
them and let them know how much jurisdiction they have over the children. Tell
them what to do in certain situations, so they don’t feel uncomfortable about
taking control of problematic incidents. Parents should know the protocol, in
the event of an emergency, and be notified of any special needs a child has in
the group, whether someone is diabetic or allergic to a substance.
Set
Up Buddy Teams
Before the day, draw up buddy teams, so no
child (however unpopular) is left out. Keep the list to hand and make sure
everyone stays together. Severely reprimand those who leave their partner
alone.
Give every child your phone number, so they
can contact you in an emergency or if they’ve been left behind. No matter where
you plan your school trip, no-one should be wandering around by themselves.
Allow
Freedom
Obviously, every field trip is unique, and
an element of freedom should be granted. On the other hand, don’t allow any unacceptable
behaviour on the trip, such as physical violence or swearing. Excitement is
fine, but get ready to reign in exuberant behaviour before it escalates.
Where you can, tire out students by playing
games in nearby parks. Get them to burn off some beans.
Composed
for Knowsley Safari Experience, helping convey insightful points to people who
are preparing a school trip at Knowsley Safari Park.
