Unaccompanied Out of School Activities

Definition
An unaccompanied out of school activity is defined as any school organised activity of short duration, in close proximity to the school or base being used by the school (eg Residential Centre) and which takes place in the complete absence of direct teacher supervision .

Procedure
The written approval of the Rector is required BEFORE either the pupils or parents are informed of the activity. A simple pro forma is available and should be used. It is likely that one pro forma will be sufficient for approval when the same activity is repeated throughout the session by the same group of pupils.

The written permission of parents is required before the activity takes place and a completed pro forma should be given to the organising teacher before the event. The School Parental Consent Form should be used for this permission as long as the activity is routine.

• If the activity is not routine then a more detailed pro forma should be used.
• Pupils should be informed of the following before commencing the activity.

a) purpose of activity
b) factors affecting safety,
c) expectations regarding conduct
d) transport/meeting times
e) emergency procedure - this is outlined in the out of School information card.

Pupils should be issued with a completed Out of School Information Card when they commence the activity.
These cards must be collected by the organising teacher at the end of the activity. 

In the interest of good relations with the local community, organising teachers should ensure that all the necessary arrangements for the activity in the community are made prior to a visit.

• The safety and well being of pupils must be the primary consideration

in participating in these activities which are acknowledged as fostering independence and seen as necessary to courses. Every effort should be made to ensure that pupils are fully informed about personal responsibility and understand the relevant factors relating to personal safety. Teachers' action and response should always be that of a reasonable parent.

Insurance
(a) Subject to 5b) below, no insurance is held by The Moray Council to compensate pupils for personal accident, illness, loss or damage incurred within or outwith the school campus.   In common with most Scottish Education Authorities, the Council's policy is that insurance of this nature - eg personal accident, life, private medical etc - is an individual or parental responsibility.

(b) The Moray Council does, however, hold third party liability insurance which indemnifies the Council for claims from third parties (eg parents on behalf of pupils who have suffered injury, illness, loss or damage) arising from the negligence of the Council or its employees.

Further information/guidance on insurance matters is contained in the Administration Handbook Section 1.11.   Any queries on specific matters should be addressed to The Moray Council, Finance Service, Payments Section, High Street, Elgin, Moray, FAO The Senior Administration Officer, Tel: 01343 543451.

All blank pro formas can be obtained from the office.

Please note that there are different requirements for outdoor pursuits and overseas visits. Any member of staff planning either must consult the Rector well in advance, as a risk assessment must be undertaken.