Offsite events and adventurous activities

The Dorset 24-hour emergency phone number is 07623 544346. This is for use in serious emergencies only, where additional support is required from the county council by Dorset County Council schools, youth centres, etc.

For current advice on overseas travel, please consult the Foreign Office website.

Children's Services Offsite Events and Adventurous Activities Visits Policy October 2011 (pdf, 60kb) (opens in a new window)

Adherence to the content of this policy is a requirement for all who are working with children and young people where the local authority is the employer.

The national guidance previously provided by the Government on the Teachernet website is no longer in use. This has been replaced by the Employer Guidance (opens in a new window) produced by the Outdoor Education Advisers' Panel.

Planning forms 1-6 with guidance notes
Planning forms 1 - 6 provide the means to follow the recommended process for the organisation of off site events and adventurous activities.
Ten Tors guidance
For many years a number of schools in Dorset have entered teams into the annual Ten Tors event. This event provides the participants with a wonderful opportunity for self development.
Model offsite visits policy for use by organisational units
Every organisational unit (such as school or youth club) must have an offsite events and adventurous activities policy. This exemplar can be adopted for use and adapted as required.
South west mountain and moorland leader training scheme (SWMMTS)
The moorland and mountain areas of the South West (SW) provide some of the best walking environments in the country and are therefore popular with leaders wanting to introduce young people to wild country walking and camping.
Minibus guidance
All minibus use must be in compliance with the content of the Dorset County Council Guidance.
Generic risk assessments
These are generic risk assessments to assist with the planning and management of visits and activities. They identify the common hazards and risks associated with these activities and the primary means by which the risks are controlled. Organisations are encouraged to develop their own generic standards or adopt/amend those provided here. This will help develop consistent standards and reduce planning time for event organisers.
The Duke of Edinburgh's Award
Guidance on expedition approvals for The Duke of Edinburgh (D of E) Award for schools and non school units.