Outings Policy

(Updated EYFS September 2025)

Policy Statement:

At Just Little Ones Childminding, we recognise the value of outings in enriching children’s learning experiences and connecting them with their community and natural environment. This policy ensures that all outings are safe, well-planned, and developmentally appropriate, aligning with EYFS 2025 guidance.

Purpose of Outings:

  • Outings provide children with opportunities for new experiences, hands-on learning, and social development.
  • Activities will support children’s physical, emotional, and cognitive development in line with the EYFS curriculum.
  • We encourage exploration, independence, and curiosity by introducing children to different environments, people, and cultural settings.

Planning and Preparation:

  • Outings are planned in advance, considering children’s ages, needs, and interests.
  • A risk assessment will be conducted before each outing to identify potential hazards and implement safety measures.
  • Outings will be designed to be inclusive and accessible for all children, including those with special educational needs or disabilities (SEND).

Parental Consent:

  • Parents or legal guardians will receive detailed information about each outing in advance, including: 
    • The destination
    • The mode of transportation
    • Expected timings
    • Any special requirements (clothing, packed lunch, etc.)
  • Written parental consent will be required before each outing.

Ratios and Supervision:

  • We will strictly follow the EYFS staff-to-child ratios during outings to ensure safety and appropriate supervision.
  • Extra precautions will be taken in busy locations, such as public parks, museums, and transport hubs.
  • Children will be encouraged to use the buddy system for added safety.

Safety Measures:

  • Children will be given clear safety instructions before and during the outing.
  • Staff will ensure that children: 
    • Stay together as a group
    • Are aware of boundaries
    • Understand road safety and stranger awareness
  • High-visibility clothing or wristbands with emergency contact details may be used for additional safety.

Emergency Preparedness:

  • A fully stocked first aid kit will be carried on all outings.
  • Emergency contact details for all children, along with necessary medications (e.g., EpiPens, inhalers), will be readily accessible.
  • In the event of an emergency: 
    • Staff will follow the designated emergency procedures.
    • Parents will be contacted immediately if needed.

Communication:

  • Children will be engaged in discussions before outings about the destination, expectations, and safety rules.
  • Parents will be kept informed about outings in advance, and any specific requirements will be communicated.

Cultural and Religious Considerations:

  • Outings will be inclusive, ensuring all children feel comfortable and valued.
  • Any dietary or religious considerations will be respected when choosing destinations and planning meals/snacks.

Additional Staff:

  • For larger groups or outings with heightened risk factors, additional staff or parent volunteers may be included to enhance supervision.
  • All supervising adults will be briefed on safety procedures before the outing.

Record Keeping:

  • Records of each outing will be maintained, including: 
    • Parental consent forms
    • Risk assessments
    • Incident reports, if applicable
    • Emergency contact lists

Alternate Plans:

  • Weather conditions and unexpected disruptions will be accounted for with backup plans or alternative destinations.
  • If an outing is cancelled, children will engage in an indoor or alternative outdoor activity.

Alignment with EYFS 2025 Changes:

  • The EYFS 2025 framework emphasises the importance of outdoor and real-world learning experiences.
  • Outings are designed to support holistic development, integrating physical activity, problem-solving, and sensory exploration.
  • Our outings policy aligns with EYFS learning and development goals, focusing on: 
    • Personal, Social, and Emotional Development (PSED) through interaction in new settings.
    • Communication and Language by encouraging discussions about outings.
    • Understanding the World by introducing children to nature, history, and culture.
  • The inclusion of risk-taking opportunities in controlled environments supports self-confidence and resilience, as highlighted in EYFS 2025.

Review and Monitoring:

  • This policy will be reviewed annually or more frequently to ensure it aligns with EYFS updates and best practices.
  • Feedback from parents, staff, and children will be encouraged to continuously improve our outings policy and procedures.

Signed: Jemma & Dale Ferriday
Date: August 2025
Review Date: April 2027