Teachers are key to good off-site school learning.

Currently recovering with a banana milkshake from the school group visit this morning, who were fantastic. A great example of how teachers can help make a good off site school visit, and make sure everyone has a good time.

1. In prior communication the school gave clear answers about number of students and staff attending, and any issues (e.g. couple of autistic students) so staff at the venue could plan suitably and communicate a clear plan for the day.
2. The school acted upon instructions and suggestions given by the venue beforehand (e.g. split into smaller groups before arriving, rather than arguing about who is in which group while at the venue)
3. Teachers supported the staff on site, encouraging children to act responsibly, listen, and follow any instructions promptly.
4. Teachers mixed with students to discuss what was on display and the activities they were taking part in, using their knowledge of individual students to encourage those less engaged to get involved.
5. Students were encouraged by the teachers to talk to staff, ask questions, and teachers directed questions they couldn't answer to the staff who could. Teachers also asked questions, prompting small discussion groups with students.

It may seem self evident, but these little pointers make a massive difference to how much the students get from a visit, and how much the staff on site are able to do for them. Especially if a school is paying for a visit, every minute spent asking or waiting for students to gather round, shut up, get back on topic etc is a minute where they aren't getting what the school has paid for. 

Teachers don't need to do the job of venue staff, but their help is invaluable. The rapport teachers already have with their students is a resource venue staff can use, and can guide students toward a better experience.