Education Secretary Highlights the Value of School Residentials

In line with the Government roadmap, schools were able to resume overnight visits from 17th May. The Department for Education issued guidance, that came into effect on 19th July, approving school trips abroad and the planning of new international visits.

Value of school residentials

In the Commons MP Gavin Williamson highlighted the ‘real value’ of school residentials when asked about the education and school travel sector in July. Following a question from Dr Neil Hudson, MP for Penrith and The Border Gavin Williamson responded:

“As part of step three of the roadmap we lifted restrictions so people could do overnight residentials. Of course, my Honourable Friend is absolutely right to highlight the benefits of outdoor education centres and the real value they bring to so many young people.”

“We will certainly continue to work with the sector to how we can promote this especially as schools have got more and more freedoms in the future.”

The Council for Learning Outside the Classroom (CLOtC) commented at the time:

“We are very pleased that Gavin Williamson has recognised the value of residential experiences and are delighted the latest guidance from the Department for Education plans to remove all barriers to schools in England wishing to plan these experiences for the 2021/22 academic year and beyond. Overnight residential visits have been permitted in England since mid May and, subject to confirmation, from September international educational visits will once again be permitted.”

“As we move forward, it is essential that schools harness the unique and frequently life changing experiences that residential visits, both within the UK and overseas, offer young people. We will continue to work with our partners and the DfE to ensure children and young people enjoy and benefit from high quality learning outside the classroom experiences throughout their education.”