Security Update - Visits to London and Airports
People will be aware that the heightened security alert has now been downgraded from “Critical” to “Severe”.
Continuing advice for schools intending to travel with groups to London and other major cities is that consideration be given to ensuring transport will be available to remove the group from city centres at short notice, if required.
Schools with parties travelling abroad by air should be aware that increased security precautions at airports may mean allowing more time for journeys prior to departures and to check with their tour operator beforehand for the latest information.
Booster Cushion Seat Requirements
The recent legislation requires that children under 1.35m (4'5") or
12 years and under, being transported in private cars, are provided with
booster cushions or seats.
This has implications for establishments planning to use cars, including
people carriers, as their chosen means of transport for offsite visits
or to and from sports fixtures.
You will need to consider how you will implement the new requirements
in your establishment. There are different alternatives, including:
- Asking the children's parents to ensure they bring their
booster seat/cushion with them if they own one
- Buying a (small) supply of booster cushions/seats for use
in cases where parents have not provided them and the child's
participation in a trip is likely to be jeopardised - some
high street suppliers are offering special discounts to schools
- Having a 4'5" (1.35m) marker clearly available in
your establishment.
Sensitivity may be required for those children in Year
7 who have not reached their 12th birthday and who may fall
foul of the height requirement.
Help and Advice
For help and advice please contact the Offsite Visits Co-ordinator
in the first instance.
Name |
Position |
Tel No. |
Mark Falkingham |
Offsite Visits Adviser |
01992 556491 |
Ron Hodgson |
Head of Herts Young Mariners |
01992 628403 |
|