Cultural trips
School trips
group trip school trip
School Trip & Group Travel: How to Make It a Success!
Are you planning a class trip or group tour and looking for inspiration and practical tips? Organising it can be a challenge, but with the right preparation, it will be a success. Learn more about our comprehensive planning support on our contact page and let's make your next trip unforgettable together.
The topic, briefly and concisely
School trips promote social skills and personal development of the students through extracurricular learning experiences and practical application of the curriculum.
Choosing the right provider with experience, a comprehensive range of services, and a focus on sustainability is crucial for success, with providers such as Alpetour and CTS Reisen standing out.
Careful planning, taking into account budget, educational aspects and safety, as well as the use of funding programmes, make the school trip a memorable and educational experience.
Discover how to plan the perfect school trip or group excursion that is both educational and unforgettable. From budgeting to choosing your destination – we have all the tips for you!
A school trip is more than just an excursion – it's an investment in your students' social and personal development. Group trips and school trips offer a unique opportunity to complement the curriculum through practical experiences and strengthen class cohesion. At GoTuro, we understand the importance of carefully planning these journeys to meet the needs of students as well as the requirements of teachers and parents.
What are school trips and why are they important?
School trips are organised journeys for school classes, typically accompanied by teachers. Their primary purpose is to provide students with extra-curricular learning experiences and promote social interaction. Unlike purely recreational trips, school trips often have an educational focus aligned with the curriculum. Through direct contact with new environments and cultures, students can expand their knowledge and change their perspectives.
There are different types of school trips, each with a distinct focus. School trips focus on imparting knowledge and strengthening class cohesion. Study trips aim at deepening specific learning content, for example, by visiting museums or historical sites. Graduation trips, on the other hand, are more of a celebration marking the end of the school years and often include recreational activities and entertainment. The right type of trip depends on the goals and needs of the particular class.
Target groups and their needs
When planning a school trip, the needs of all involved must be considered. Students generally seek fun, adventure, and new experiences. Teachers value good organisation, safety, and educational benefits. Parents are primarily concerned with their children's safety, cost control, and proper supervision. A successful school trip addresses all these aspects and offers a balanced programme that is both educational and entertaining.
At GoTuro, we understand these varying needs and offer tailored solutions for each target group. Our group trips are designed to provide students with unforgettable experiences, ease the organisational burden for teachers, and give parents peace of mind. Here you will find further inspiration for your next school trip.
Choosing a Provider: How to Find the Ideal Partner for Your School Trip
The selection of the right provider is crucial for the success of your school trip. Pay attention to experience, service offerings and sustainability to ensure that your trip runs smoothly and makes a positive contribution. At GoTuro, we work with selected partners who meet these criteria and enable you to have an unforgettable school trip.
Criteria for Selecting a Provider
When choosing a provider for school trips, you should focus on their experience and expertise. Companies like Alpetour, which has been active in this field for over 60 years, or CTS Reisen with over 50 years of experience, possess the necessary know-how to professionally organize your trip. These providers understand the specific requirements of school classes and can offer valuable support in planning and executing your trip. Also, look for certifications and awards that confirm the provider’s quality and reliability.
A comprehensive service offering is another important criterion when selecting a provider. Ideally, the provider offers complete planning, organization, and execution of the trip, including transport, accommodation, meals, and program design. 24-hour availability and personal consultation are also beneficial to quickly receive support in case of questions or problems. Alpetour, for instance, offers high flexibility and guarantees, such as free cancellation conditions, to facilitate your planning. At GoTuro, we ensure our partners meet these standards and provide you with a comprehensive service.
Sustainability and environmental awareness are playing an increasingly bigger role in the planning of school trips. Look for providers who offer BNE programs (Education for Sustainable Development) and are committed to environmental protection. CTS Reisen, for example, offers CO₂-neutral transport options to reduce the environmental impact of your trip. Choosing environmentally friendly accommodations and supporting local providers can also contribute to a sustainable school trip. At GoTuro, we are committed to ensuring our partners consider these principles and offer you environmentally friendly travel options.
Renowned Providers in Comparison
Alpetour is a specialist in school skiing trips and school trips and offers extensive experience in this area. CTS Reisen has a wide range of destinations in Germany, Europe, and the USA and offers tailored programs for schools and teachers. VOYAGE Gruppenreisen focuses on active holidays and special destinations, such as the AKTIV Camp Medulin in Croatia. MANGO Tours offers flexible group travel and individual planning for various target groups. The choice of the right provider depends on your individual needs and preferences. At GoTuro, we are happy to advise you on choosing the right partner for your school trip.
Top destinations: How to choose the perfect location for your school trip
The choice of the right destination is crucial for the success of your school trip. Whether it's Germany or Europe, a city tour or active holiday – the possibilities are diverse. At GoTuro, we help you find the perfect destination that suits both the educational goals and interests of your students.
Popular Destinations in Germany
Germany offers a wide range of attractive destinations for school trips. The North Sea and Baltic Sea are ideal for nature exploration and water sports activities. Cities like Berlin, Hamburg, Munich, Cologne, and Weimar offer rich cultural experiences and fascinating insights into German history. The island of Sylt is also a popular destination for school trips, especially for sporting activities and nature experiences. When selecting a destination, you should consider your students' interests and the educational objectives of your trip. At GoTuro, we are happy to advise you in planning your school trip in Germany.
School trips to Berlin are particularly popular, as the city offers an abundance of historical and cultural attractions. Students can visit the Brandenburg Gate, the Reichstag, the Holocaust Memorial, and many other significant sites. A visit to the German Historical Museum or the Pergamon Museum is also recommended to bring German history closer to the students. Furthermore, Berlin offers numerous opportunities for leisure activities, such as a boat trip on the Spree or a visit to the Berlin Zoo. At GoTuro, we help you organise a school trip to Berlin that is both educational and entertaining. Discover our ideas for your next school trip to Berlin.
European Destinations
Europe also offers a wide range of attractive destinations for school trips. Lake Garda in Italy is ideal for water sports activities and nature exploration. Cities like London, Rome, Barcelona, Prague, Amsterdam, Dublin, Paris, and Edinburgh offer rich cultural experiences and fascinating insights into European history. Regions such as Spain (Costa Brava, Costa del Maresme), Croatia (Istria), Italy (Tuscany), France (Provence), and Austria (Radstadt) are also popular destinations for school trips. When selecting a destination, you should consider your students' interests and the educational objectives of your trip. At GoTuro, we are happy to advise you in planning your school trip in Europe.
Special Destinations and Activities
For school trips with a special focus, VOYAGE Group Travel offers the AKTIV Camp Medulin in Croatia, which is perfect for an active holiday. CTS Travel offers language trips to Malta and Brighton, giving students the opportunity to improve their language skills. Nature trips to Ireland and Center Parcs Zandvoort are also part of the CTS Travel offerings. The choice of the right destination depends on your individual needs and preferences. At GoTuro, we help you find the perfect destination for your school trip.
When planning your school trip, you should also consider the season. Some destinations are particularly attractive at certain times of the year, while others may be better suited at other times. For example, a skiing holiday is ideal in winter, while a beach holiday is more enjoyable in the summer. The availability of accommodation and activities can also vary depending on the season. At GoTuro, we help you determine the best travel time for your school trip and ensure that all necessary arrangements are made.
Successful Planning: How to Make Your School Trip an Unforgettable Experience
Careful planning is crucial for a successful school trip. From budget planning to safety measures – we at GoTuro support you in every step to make your trip smooth and unforgettable.
Budget Planning and Financing
Realistic budget planning is essential for the success of your school trip. Consider the seasonal timings and make use of early booking discounts to save costs. Research the possibilities of using support associations and educational and participation benefits to make the trip accessible for all students. Create a detailed budget plan for the students, including recommendations for pocket money. Klassenfahrten-kluehspies.de recommends, for example, 30-50 euros for a 3-day city trip, whereas ski trips require hardly any additional budget. We at GoTuro help you to create a realistic budget and to explore all financing options.
Pedagogical Aspects and Learning Objectives
Integrate the UNESCO's ESD (Education for Sustainable Development) principles into your school trip to raise students' awareness of sustainability. Adapt the trip to the curriculum and the learning objectives to enhance the educational value of the trip. Encourage teamwork and social skills among students through joint activities and projects. Alpetour offers ESD programs, for instance, and supports you in integrating sustainability aspects into your school trip. We at GoTuro help you plan a trip that is both educational and entertaining.
Safety Aspects and Risk Management
Ensure comprehensive safety measures and provide 24/7 emergency support and insolvency insurance. Learn about the safety measures and on-site support. Communicate openly with parents and students to address all questions and concerns. Klassenfahrten-kluehspies.de recommends choosing providers that offer comprehensive safety measures to minimize potential risks and ensure the well-being of students. We at GoTuro emphasize that our partners meet these standards and enable you to have a safe school trip.
Another important aspect of planning a school trip is timely communication with all involved. Inform parents early about the planned activities, costs, and safety measures. Involve students in the planning to take their interests and wishes into account. Work closely with the provider to clarify all details and ensure the trip runs smoothly. We at GoTuro support you in communicating with all parties involved and help you plan a successful school trip.
Sustainable school trips: Environmental awareness and social responsibility
Sustainability is an important topic that should also be considered during school trips. We at GoTuro are committed to ensuring your trip is not only unforgettable but also environmentally friendly and socially responsible.
Importance of Sustainability in Tourism
Sustainability in tourism means conserving the environment, saving resources, and embracing social responsibility. This includes protecting the natural environment, promoting fair working conditions, and supporting the local economy. A sustainable school trip helps raise students' awareness of these issues and educates them on responsible environmental practices. We at GoTuro support you in planning a sustainable school trip that makes a positive impact.
Measures for Sustainable School Trips
Choose CO₂-neutral modes of transport to reduce the environmental impact of your trip. CTS Reisen offers CO₂-neutral transport options, for example. Prefer eco-friendly accommodation that uses renewable energy and avoids waste. Use regional products and services to support the local economy. Integrate ESD programs (Education for Sustainable Development) into your school trip to raise students' awareness of sustainability. We at GoTuro help you plan a school trip that considers these measures and makes a positive contribution.
Another important aspect of planning a sustainable school trip is the avoidance of unnecessary waste. Encourage students to bring reusable water bottles and lunch boxes to reduce plastic waste. Avoid disposable packaging and prefer products in reusable packaging. Dispose of waste properly and separate it if possible. We at GoTuro support you in implementing these measures and help you plan a school trip that produces as little waste as possible.
Supporting local communities is also an important aspect of sustainability. Visit local markets and shops to purchase regional products. Engage in local social projects to give students the opportunity to make a contribution. Respect the local culture and traditions and avoid behaviours that could offend the locals. We at GoTuro help you plan a school trip that supports local communities and makes a positive contribution.
Smart Strategies: Mastering Any Challenge on a School Trip
A successful school trip requires not only careful planning but also the ability to adapt flexibly to unforeseen events. At GoTuro, we provide you with valuable tips and tricks to overcome any challenge and make your trip a complete success.
Early Planning and Preparation
Start planning your school trip early to benefit from early booking discounts and secure the best accommodations and activities. Use the date distribution to avoid peak season prices. Book early to ensure availability. Klassenfahrten-kluehspies.de recommends taking advantage of the off-season to save up to 30% in costs. We at GoTuro assist you in planning your school trip early and taking advantage of all the benefits.
Communication and Collaboration
Maintain close collaboration with the provider to clarify all details and ensure the trip goes smoothly. Involve the students and parents in the planning process to consider their interests and wishes. Communicate openly and transparently with everyone involved to address questions and concerns. We at GoTuro support you in communicating with everyone involved and help you plan a successful school trip.
Flexibility and Problem Solving
Be prepared to adapt to unforeseen events and react flexibly to changes. Respond quickly to problems and look for solutions. Alpetour quickly organized a replacement coach, for instance, when a train was cancelled, to ensure the safe return of the students. We at GoTuro help you respond flexibly to challenges and successfully master your school trip.
Another important tip for a successful school trip is preparation for emergencies. Ensure you have all important emergency contacts, including the phone numbers of parents, providers, and local emergency services. Pack an emergency medical kit and familiarize yourself with the local medical services. Discuss with the students how to behave in emergencies and how to call for help. We at GoTuro assist you in preparing for emergencies and help you plan a safe school trip.
Optimal Accommodation: How to Find the Right Home for Your School Trip
Choosing the right accommodation is crucial for the well-being of your students during the school trip. At GoTuro, we introduce you to various types of accommodations and offer valuable tips on how to find the right place for your needs.
Different Types of Accommodations
There are various types of accommodations suitable for school trips. Youth hostels, youth guesthouses, and school camps are particularly popular as they are cost-effective and provide good infrastructure for groups. Self-catering houses and group houses are ideal for groups who wish to cater for themselves. Hotels and holiday apartments offer more comfort and privacy but are generally more expensive. The choice of the right accommodation depends on your individual needs and budget. At GoTuro, we are happy to advise you on selecting the right accommodation for your school trip.
Criteria for Choosing the Right Accommodation
When choosing the right accommodation, you should consider various criteria. Pay attention to the location and accessibility of the accommodation to ensure that it is well connected and all important sights and activities are easily accessible. Consider the facilities and comfort of the accommodation to ensure it meets the needs of your students. Compare the value for money to find the best option for your budget. Check the suitability of the accommodation for the group, for example, whether it is accessible for people with disabilities or has special facilities for children. At GoTuro, we help you find the suitable accommodation for your school trip that meets all your requirements.
Another important aspect when choosing accommodation is safety. Ensure that the accommodation has the necessary safety precautions, such as smoke detectors, fire extinguishers, and emergency exits. Inform yourself about the safety policies of the accommodation and discuss these with the students. Make sure the accommodation has a 24-hour reception to quickly get help in case of problems or emergencies. At GoTuro, we emphasize that our partner accommodations meet high safety standards and enable you to have a safe school trip.
Here are some of the most important criteria for selecting a suitable accommodation for your school trip:
Location and Accessibility: The accommodation should be easily accessible and well connected to public transport.
Facilities and Comfort: The accommodation should have sufficient beds, sanitary facilities, and common areas.
Value for Money: The accommodation should offer good value for money and fit within your budget.
Conclusion: With Foresight to the Perfect School Trip
Class Trips are a valuable addition to everyday school life, offering students the opportunity to gain new experiences, develop social skills, and expand their knowledge. With the right planning, appropriate provider, and careful preparation, your class trip will become an unforgettable experience.
Summary of Key Points
Class trips are important for students' education and development. Choosing the right provider and the appropriate destination is crucial for the success of the trip. Careful planning and organisation are essential to consider all aspects of the trip. Sustainability and environmental friendliness should be considered in the planning process to make a positive contribution. We at GoTuro support you every step of the way to make your class trip a complete success.
Future Prospects for Class Trips
The travel industry is constantly evolving and offers new opportunities for class trips. New technologies and innovations allow for even more individual and enriching travel experiences. Customised offers and experiences will play an increasingly important role in the future. We at GoTuro are always looking out for new trends and innovations to offer you the best class trips. Also, visit our page on school trip destinations for further inspirations.
Government subsidies for group travel offer an excellent opportunity to invest in an unforgettable and educational experience for your students. Whether it is a cultural discovery tour or an experiential educational outing, the available funding programs and tax benefits make organizing a class trip attractive and financially feasible.
With a variety of funding programs and tax incentives, there are numerous ways to reduce the costs of incorporating a class trip. We at GoTuro offer comprehensive advice and support in selecting the right destination, meeting educational requirements, navigating the application process, and avoiding potential issues.
By choosing a class trip, you invest in your students' future. You not only enhance their social skills and broaden their horizons, but also make an important contribution to their personal development.
Now is the perfect time to explore the funding opportunities for your project. Contact us today to start your customised consultation and submit a funding application quickly and easily. Register for free to receive an immediate initial estimate of the planning needs for your class trip.
Conclusion: Well-organised group trips create lasting value
More useful links
Alpetour offers many years of experience and expertise in school ski trips and class excursions.
CTS Reisen has a wide range of destinations and offers CO₂-neutral transport options for environmentally conscious class trips.
VOYAGE Gruppenreisen focuses on active holidays and offers special destinations such as the AKTIV Camp Medulin in Croatia.
FAQ
What is the main purpose of a school trip?
The main purpose of a school trip is to provide students with extracurricular learning experiences, promote social interaction, and complement the curriculum through practical experiences.
What types of school trips are there?
There are various types, including school trips (focus on knowledge and community), study trips (deepening learning content), and graduation trips (celebrating the end of school). The choice depends on the goals and needs of the class.
What criteria are important when choosing a provider?
Consider their experience, a comprehensive service offering (planning, organization, execution), and sustainability. Providers like Alpetour and CTS Reisen have extensive expertise.
Which destinations are particularly popular in Germany for school trips?
Popular destinations in Germany include the North and Baltic Seas (nature explorations), Berlin, Hamburg, Munich, Cologne, and Weimar (cultural offerings), as well as the island of Sylt (sports and nature).
Which European destinations are suitable for school trips?
Attractive European destinations are Lake Garda (water sports), London, Rome, Barcelona, Prague, Amsterdam, Dublin, Paris, and Edinburgh (culture and history), as well as regions like Tuscany and Provence.
How can a school trip be made more sustainable?
Choose carbon-neutral means of transport, prefer eco-friendly accommodations, use local products and services, and integrate ESD programs (education for sustainable development).
How to plan the budget for a school trip?
Consider seasonal periods, take advantage of early booking discounts, research sponsorship associations and education and participation services, and create a detailed budget plan for the students.
What safety precautions are important on a school trip?
Ensure comprehensive safety precautions, offer 24/7 emergency support and insolvency insurance. Communicate openly with parents and students.
