Pre-trip Teacher Information: 2011 - 2012
Catogory & Supervision Ratio Required
- Trips to HCA Outdoor Environmental Education Sites are Category I, and require Principal approval
- Higher risk winter activities such as snowshoeing are considered Category 2 – see OPHEA guidelines.
- Elementary Trip Supervision Ratio is 1 adult: 10 student ratio
- Secondary Trip Supervision Ratio is 1 adult: 15 student ratio
- Teachers organize supervision & are expected to actively participate in the program
- Student Trip forms required include:
- Application for Permission Category I for most trips
- Category 2 if activity is higher risk (snowshoeing/XC skiing)– see above
- Information to Parent/Guardian
- Parent/Guardian Permission & Emergency Info.
- Informed consent indicate risks: slips and falls, sprains, breaks, head & neck injuries, sunburn, frostbite, hypothermia
- Volunteer Driver if applicable
What does the Teacher Do?
- Links the classroom program to the outdoor education experience, pre and post visit
- Acquire parent permission and inform parent/guardian of trip needs, i.e. dress for weather, extra clothing (socks), lunch, medications, hats, sunscreen, insect repellent and appropriate dress to avoid insect bites – tics, black flies, mosquitoes etc.
- Supervise class & maintain discipline & actively participate in all activities throughout the visit, including lunch
- Advise HCA staff prior to the trip regarding special needs students, including allergies, mobility problems, etc.
- Cancellations are not entertained; however, under some circumstances, teachers must notify Beth Stormont of the need to cancel at least 20 school days in advance, otherwise a cancellation fee will apply - $150.00
- Please Note: Damaged or lost equipment will be the responsibility of the school and schools will be charged replacement costs.
- Program participants are encouraged to bring a litter-less lunch. Approximately 30 minutes is allocated for lunch and supervision is the responsibility of the teacher. Note: A snack bar is available at the Dundas Valley location.
What does HCS Education Staff Do?
- Schedule, contact and confirm class field trips to the Centre – using Fax or Email
- Provide a Trip Confirmation Letter and Trip Preparation information.
- Teach the outdoor education program, with the active assistance and support of the classroom teacher and volunteers in attendance.
- Maintain site according to established standards & safety protocols
- Provide program equipment, set-up, first aid, emergency communications, expertise and research in the field
- Inform teachers by telephone of the possibility of program cancellation due to forecasted weather conditions
Click here to download the pre-trip information.
