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Going on an outdoor education camp? Guidance for teachers and organisers

Updated: 6 days ago

Organising the outdoor education camp for your students can be daunting. Here are some of the top considerations when choosing to work with a provider.


When considering working with an outdoor education provider in Hong Kong, there are several factors that teachers should take into account. Here are some of the top considerations:


  • Safety and Risk Management: Safety of participants is always a top priority. Ensure that the provider has comprehensive safety protocols in place, including trained staff, emergency procedures, risk assessments, insurance coverage and appropriate safety equipment. A reliable provider would be happy to show you how they do this and provide appropriate policies and paperwork for you to check.


  • Curriculum Alignment: Look for an outdoor education provider whose approach aligns with your school ethos, teaching objectives and curriculum. Seek providers who can tailor their programs to support and enhance your classroom learning goals. Consider how the outdoor education program fits into your students’ learning journeys? Are they able to offer suitable progression year-on-year?


  • Expertise and Experience: Assess the provider's expertise and experience in delivering outdoor education programs. Look for their track record, client testimonials, and qualifications of their staff. A provider with a proven history of successful programs and knowledgeable instructors is more likely to deliver a quality experience.  If they are running new activities, be alert that there may be teething issues to deal with.


  • Educational Activities: Ensure that the provider offers activities that are tailored to your learning objectives, and that are engaging, educational and suitable for the age group you teach.  Note, that more is not always better as longer sessions focused on one skill allow students’ time to develop a sense of mastery and self-efficacy.


  • Cost and Value: While cost is a consideration, it should not be the sole determining factor. Evaluate the value provided by the outdoor education provider in relation to their pricing. Consider the quality of their programs, the expertise of their staff, the safety measures in place, and the overall educational benefits for your students. It's important to strike a balance between cost and the value your students will gain from the experience.


  • Clarifying Roles, Responsibilities and Expectations: Discuss what is expected of both parties in the lead up to a program and during the program. Do you want the provider to meet the parents and students beforehand? Which party is responsible for students overnight and during downtime? What happens if bad weather cancels an activity? Engage in thorough discussions with your provider to avoid misunderstandings and clarify expectations before the program starts.


  • Checking Equipment, Venues and Facilities: Check the condition and quality of the provider's equipment and facilities. Well-maintained gear and appropriate facilities contribute to a safe and effective outdoor learning environment.  Conduct site visits to see if they are appropriate for your students, to familiarise yourself with them in advance, and to identify any major hazards or child safeguarding issue. 


  • Contracting: It is highly recommended that you have a contract in writing between the provider and your school. It should record all important aspects of your programme such as program fee and when it’s due to be paid, minimum # of enrollments, cancellation and postponement terms, bad weather plans, dates, and how to raise disputes. Be wary of providers that ask you to sign waivers.


  • Preparing staff and students: This may be a new experience for both students and accompanying staff, so it’s important to take time to prepare them appropriately and address anxieties. Ask your provider for your kit lists, timetables and any rules to be followed. Share these with your staff and students along with learning aims and expectations. Be aware of any behavioural, medical or special educational needs of students and share these with your provider so they can tailor the program to fit.


By considering these factors, you can select an outdoor education provider in Hong Kong that prioritizes safety, aligns with your teaching objectives, offers educational and engaging activities, and be prepared to organise a valuable educational experience for your students.  Taking time to develop the relationship between your school and the provider also helps ensure the process of going on camp can be a smooth and enjoyable one for all involved.


For providers, what questions do you often receive from schools?

For schools, what questions do you have for providers?

Ask in the comments section below.

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The HK Outdoor Learning Association is a non-profit organisation seeking to build the sector with professional, safety-conscious, environmentally-responsible and ethical individuals and organisations.

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