We want you and your students to get the most out of a trip to a UK National Park. If you plan a safe, achievable trip with clear objectives your trip will be fun, stimulating and worthwhile.
Always follow the advice and guidance of your local education authority or governing body. The tips on these pages give basic sound practice for trips in the outdoors.
Even if you're just planning a day visit to run yourself, we can give you up-to-date advice on where to go, weather and road conditions, safety and access advice, and the most suitable activities to do. Or you can book our teams to deliver teaching sessions for you.
If possible visit the site before your field trip.
Assess the facilities like toilets and car parks.
Check the terrain is suitable for your activity and your group.
Note any potential hazards.
Could you use public transport for your trip to be really sustainable? If not, we recommend minibuses, large coaches are not very manoeuvrable on rural roads and might not be able to reach all the locations you want to get to - or turn around once there!
Remember that your group will each have a backpack with them, as well as any teaching equipment you are taking, so make sure your vehicle has enough room.
Take the right clothing, the right food and the right equipment to keep everyone safe and comfortable.
Check our recommended kit list
Know how to use a map and compass
Our education teams have health and safety procedures and risk assessments. If you book with us make sure you are aware of these procedures.
If you are planning a visit on your own, we can send you risk assessments and helpful information to make your visit safer.
Department for Education - health and safety advice
RoSPA - group safety at water margins
Welsh Assembly Government - Safety guide for learning outside the classroom
Check with your local education authority and / or governing body that you have the necessary insurance cover needed for your trip, including transportation, activities and any residential stays.
If you book an activity with us, we can give you details of our insurance cover.
Most land in the UK National Parks is privately owned. Check that access and your activity are allowed.
We can help with checking access and advice on the most suitable places, so get in touch
It can take longer than you think for a group to walk a route. Sloping or boggy ground, rain, wind, hot sun, and fatigue can slow you down.
Make sure you allow plenty of time to return to your vehicle or accommodation before it gets dark.
Check the weather forecast in the days before your visit, but don't rely on it being right! The weather changes rapidly, especially in upland areas, and is different at low levels and on higher ground.
National park visitor centres give local weather forecasts, and our education teams can help you prepare bad weather alternative activities.
Met Office mountain forecasts have special forecasts for seven mountainous UK National Parks
Rivers that rise quickly after rain, currents, slippery surfaces and underwater hazards all create new risks when working near water.
