About the Outdoor Education Service
Key tasks
To operate the Education Department’s educational visits, off-site activities and hazardous pursuits guidance, support and approval systems:
to fulfil the statutory requirements set out in Health and Safety of Pupils on Educational Visits, DfEE 1998
to provide current advice on best and safe practice, offering a ‘quick response’ system
to offer support to headteachers, governors, youth workers, volunteers and other leaders associated with the Councils approved activity with young people
to provide written guidelines, including advice on risk assessment and risk management in the outdoors
to assess proposals for certain types of visit
to monitor and review safety during off-site visits and activities and act on behalf of the young people or their leaders where necessary
to systematically review and inspect activity providers used by recognised groups.
To promote, manage and develop the Trailblazer Scheme as a successful structure for outdoor learning opportunities in all forms. To actively support the schools and youth groups involved with good practice ideas, strategies and resources, as well as training.
To maintain appropriate insurance cover and keep relevant Council agencies informed.
To obtain and operate the the relevant Council Education Department’s Adventure Activities Licensing procedures and practices:
to prepare for the annual inspection by external inspector(s)
to operate the required practice, procedures and systems successfully.
To provide a comprehensive training programme that is available to all Council agencies and recognised volunteers, including:
activity-based courses
risk assessment and risk management in outdoor context courses
outdoor education ‘curriculum’ courses.
To operate and manage the Education Department’s emergency action plan:
provide training and awareness raising
formulate a rota of senior officers
support young people or leaders involved in incidents.
To improve the quality of outdoor education in schools, youth groups and other Council recognised organisations and groups:
provide current advice and guidance on leading and learning in the outdoors
offer leadership through activities, courses and projects
monitor ongoing activity on behalf of the LEA.