If the contact details will be different during the visit please let us know (e.g. if your group is staying in temporary accommodation)
Please confirm availability of room before booking. Key for access to the classrooms is held in a key safe outside the entrance to the rooms, the code for which you will be given upon confirmation of booking.
The group leader's responsibilities
To ensure a safe visit, the group leader and other adult helpers will be expected to take an active part in the visit and will be entirely responsible for discipline, safety and overall control of the group. Group leaders should try to arrange a preliminary visit with Forestry England staff to discuss the programmes and the group's needs and to assess the site conditions. This will ensure you know what is there and what you want to get out of your visit. During your pre-visit check, it is recommended you know the location of mobile phone reception, fixed-telephone land line, rendezvous point, parking and access and other practical aspects of your visit such as toilets and refreshments.
The group leader must carry out the necessary risk assessments for the visit and the journey to and from the forest or other site.
All parental or guardian consents and permissions should be obtained by the group leader before the visit.
For school groups the Local Education Authority should lay down the maximum ratio of students to supervisors. It is the group leader's responsibility to ensure that students are wearing appropriate footwear and clothing for the conditions. Weather conditions can change rapidly and forest sites are often muddy – advice should be sought if in doubt.
The forest is a working environment. The group leader will ensure that warning signs and instructions from Forestry England staff are heeded, areas where work is in progress are avoided and the group is kept together. In the case of an accident, the group leader and visiting staff must be on hand to give any information about special requirements. The group leader will be responsible for ensuring that at least one supervisor has a basic knowledge of First Aid. Accidents, whether requiring treatment or
not, must be reported to FE staff. The school or other group, through the LEA or other insurance, as appropriate, will indemnify Forestry England against all claims arising from any loss or damage, or injury or death to participants and any third parties arising from the educational visit and will, during the period of the visit, maintain an insurance policy with a reputable insurance company for an amount of not less than £5 million in respect of any one claim.
The amount of such insurance shall not limit the liability of the school, group or LEA to the Forestry Commission.
The group leader is responsible for ensuring all litter is taken away with the group and that no damage is caused to the environment or site facilities.
I wish to apply to visit for the above event. I confirm I have read and understood the notes in Section 5 and I will ensure that the group complies with the conditions outlined.
