Thinking back on our own school days, school trips definitely stand out as a highlight for many. Aside from being a great way to make memories, school trips have a lot of other benefits for the pupils in attendance. I have teamed up with a senior school in Hertfordshire to explore some of the many benefits children can gain from school trips.
Reinforces Knowledge
The main aim of most school trips is to provide some level of educational value. Whilst an exuberant teacher may be able to bring a subject to life in a classroom, experiencing something in the flesh helps students develop deeper, more contextualised understanding. Visiting museums and historical sights provides children with experiences and resources that wouldn’t be available to them at school. It makes classroom topics feel relevant and inspiring, motivating them to take a genuine interest and discover more.
Develops Independence
Residential school trips are most likely the first occasion students will be away from their families. Some children may feel daunted by the prospect of staying away from home, but the experience will help to develop confidence and independence as children face the world without their parents at hand to help them. This will ultimately increase their overall self esteem, as they realise they are capable of stepping outside their comfort zone.
Supports Different Learning Styles
Kinesthetic learners, or children who learn through movement, physicality and the process of ‘doing’, will benefit greatly from school trips. The hands-on experience will compliment their learning style and help them to grasp concepts they may otherwise have struggled with. Although kinesthetic learners still attain value from classroom taught lessons, the opportunity to interact directly with the subject matter will really help to solidify their understanding.
Ignites New Friendships
Stepping away from their everyday routines helps children connect with other children and forge new relationships. Team building exercises teach children to work together and communicate with students outside their usual group of friends. Taking leave from the formality of a school setting allows children to shake up their typical role amongst their peers, allowing them to discover more about themselves and their classmates.