Courses
Educational Visits Advisory Service – Visit Leader Training: Practical Risk Management for Educational Visits
- Hands on risk management for educational visits away from the school site.
- This full day training course is designed for teachers and school staff who lead or support educational visits.
- It provides a practical introduction to effective visit planning and risk management, making it particularly suitable for new and aspiring Visit Leaders, including ECT's.
The course combines essential theory with practical, outdoor-based sessions using a local learning environment. Participants will also receive a beginner-friendly demonstration of the EVOLVE online visits system, building confidence in completing visit documentation.
Throughout the day, the focus is on developing knowledge, understanding, and practical group management skills that can be immediately applied on real visits.
Practical risk management scenarios include:
- Managing the safe crossing of roads with large groups
- Working near water margins
- Leading groups on steep slopes
- Managing and planning woodland activities
Additional information:
- The majority of the training takes place outdoors, so participants should come prepared for all weather conditions.
- Some walking is required; suitable footwear (walking boots or wellies) is strongly recommended.
- Delegates should bring a packed lunch, which will be eaten outside.
- A small rucksack is advised for drinks, waterproofs, and extra layers.
Thomas Booth, Educational Visits Advisor, Rochdale Borough Council
Tom is an Accredited Member of the Outdoor Education Advisers Panel with over a decade of experience in outdoor learning and youth development. Tom began his career working in an activity centre, where he quickly recognised the value of challenge and learning outdoors. He went on to support the Prince’s Trust Team Programme, working with young people aged 16–25, before moving into one‑to‑one youth mentoring with 16–17-year-olds.
Alongside this, Tom volunteered with Rochdale Youth Service delivering outdoor education and expedition programmes. It was during this time that he joined the team on a permanent basis — a role he has remained committed to for the past 10 years. Tom brings a wealth of practical experience, a strong understanding of young people’s needs, and a passion for safe, high‑quality outdoor education.
The Highwood Centre - adjoined to Whittaker Moss Primary School
Norden
Rochdale OL11 5XP
United Kingdom