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LESS RED TAPE FOR SCHOOL TRIPS

Local schools whose staff take 'reasonable care' when taking children on trips would be protected by the law following the publication of new Government guidance aiming to encourage schools to organise more trips for pupils.

Following concern that teachers would be sued by parents in the event of an injury to a child, Education Secretary Ruth Kelly has said that school staff who take 'reasonable care' would be protected by the law.

By carrying out straightforward safety checks teachers can protect both pupils and staff on a school visit and minimise the risk of litigation, she said.

The guidance will make clear that employers must treat staff fairly when a pupil gets injured and that parents are expected to respond fairly too.

There will also be moves to reduce the red tape involved in organising school trips.

Mrs Kelly said: "The Government wants outdoor learning, including school visits, to be part of every pupil's experience.

"From a geography field trip to a week at a residential activity centre, out of classroom education can help bring a subject to life."