Rationale:  To provide learning opportunities and connect links with the wider world by providing excursions outside of the centre for all children that attend Bight Stars Educare Ltd.

Objectives:  To ensure safety is priority when organizing excursions and that staff and management follow strict procedures.

Procedures:  It is priority that ratios are maintained at all times while on an excursion.  A minimum of no less than two staff must always go on the excursion and one of these staff must be qualified and hold the relevant teaching qualification and a current first aid certificate.  When on an excursion the ratio for Over 2 children is 1:4 unless near water then the ratio will be 1:2.  The ratio for Under 2 children be 1:3 at all times.    If children remain at the centre then the required child teacher ratios must be met including having a qualified staff member who holds a current first aid certificate on the floor at all times.

The Excursion Chart must always be completed then signed and dated by management before any trip is carried out.  Risk factors must be identified and an explanation for this excursion must be included on the excursion chart for parents to view.  Once risk factors have been taken into consideration adult child ratios may be reviewed.  Excursions requiring transport must always ensure parents/caregivers have given written permission.  Permission for short walks out of the centre must be signed on the enrolment form by parents and caregivers.  NO SIGNATURE NO EXCURSION.

When car transport is involved all traffic regulations must be met to ensure the driver holds a current licence, the vehicle has a current WOF and registration and ensure that the children have an approved child restraint.  If more than 3 children are travelling in a vehicle then 2 adults must accompany them.  The person responsible will take a copy of the drivers licence and record the car registration details.

Appropriate items must be taken on an excursion such as a first aid kit, appropriate clothing, hats, drink bottles, food medication etc depending on the excursion.  A cell phone must be taken and the number must be on the Excursion Chart so those on the trip can be contacted.  If no one is left at the centre then a notice will be left on the main entrance door with cell phone number and the intended time of arrival back at the centre.  All children shall wear a “bright stars t-shirt’ for extra safety precautions.  Roll calls will be taken before during and after the excursion to ensure all children, staff and helpers are accounted for.  If adult to child ratios can not be maintained then the trip will be cancelled.  Some excursions may incur a small cost.

Reference: Early Childhood Regulations 46 Criteria 46 HS17