Time to change your school’s residential trip company?

The pros & cons of taking the leap

Choosing the right residential trip provider is an important decision for any school, the right trip experience offers invaluable educational and personal development opportunities for pupils.

A great trip can create lasting positive memories and benefits. However, there are times when schools consider changing their provider—perhaps to reduce costs, explore new educational experiences, or address concerns with the current service. Whatever the reason, if you’re considering your trip options we’ve written this article to help you weigh up the pros and cons before making a switch.

Reasons to Consider a Change

The most common factors that prompt a school to explore alternative residential trip companies include:

• Feedback from Other Schools: Learning about positive experiences from other schools and teachers can highlight providers with excellent reputations. Many schools haven’t looked outside of the national legacy providers and it’s hearing positive stories from other schools that make them aware of more independent alternatives such as Rootd Adventure who offer a more personal service.
• Cost Efficiency: Schools may seek providers offering more competitive pricing or closer venues to reduce travel expenses. Coach travel has become one of the biggest costs for school trips, especially over the last few years. These costs, combined with an increase in the cost of living, have encouraged more schools to look at what they are getting for their money.
• Dissatisfaction with Current Provider: Negative experiences or a sense of monotony may lead schools to consider new options. Some trip experiences haven’t changed much over the last 10 years or more. We speak to schools who are dissatisfied with different elements of trips from their previous providers but in particular, trips where activities feel rushed, where children aren’t fully engaged, and where accommodation is tired, boring and uninspiring.
• Staff Changes: The departure of key advocates for the existing provider can open the door to exploring alternatives. New staff joining a school often bring experiences of other providers and new ideas.
• Alignment with Values: A desire for more eco-friendly or ethically responsible providers can drive the search for new partnerships. At Rootd, for example, it is our love of the outdoors and our desire to share these experiences in nature which drive us and guide us in the way we interact with the environment in everything we do.
• Introduction of New Options: New trip providers, increased capacity or new venues. For example, we have just added a unique Pod Village at Rootd’s Hertfordshire camp which gives a fresh new option for schools who want to explore trips during off-peak weeks in Spring & Autumn.

Pros of Changing Your School Trip Provider

Switching your residential trip provider can offer numerous benefits:

For Teachers and Schools:

1. Cost Savings: A new provider may offer better value, easing budget constraints. At Rootd we’re proud to offer a number of options to make trips more affordable. For example flexible trip durations, different accommodation options and off-peak trips.
2. Fresh Experiences: Collaborating with a new team and exploring different activities can be invigorating for educators. A residential school trip should be inspiring for teachers as well as students. It’s a chance to work with children in a different environment that can build great bonds for the whole academic year.
3. Enhanced Services: Improved facilities, accommodation, safety measures, or educational content may be available. Teachers who visit us for the first time are amazed by the personal service we’re able to provide, not to mention the perks of teacher chill-out areas and gorgeous teacher accommodation in our cosy bell tents and bespoke teacher pods.
4. Tailored Programs: Some school residential companies specialise in customising programs to a year group’s specific needs, offering a more tailored experience than a generic tick list approach. At Rootd we work with schools to understand their goals and objectives for each unique cohort. We are also able to offer trips with a specific focus, for example Bushcraft school trips. We help schools select the right combination of activities to give them the best possible outcomes and achieve their goals.

For Pupils:

1. New Adventures: Different locations or activities can boost enthusiasm and engagement. At Rootd, we offer a wide range of activities so there is something for everyone, whether it’s connecting with nature, trying a new adventurous activity, or working in a team that pupils love the most.
2. Accessibility: New venues might better accommodate pupils with specific needs, such as those with autism, or offer programs suitable for younger age groups. In addition, choosing a location closer to school provides more options for children who cannot stay overnight to be engaged in activities during the day.
3. Team Building: Fresh challenges can foster improved collaboration and teamwork among students. Our team building challenges and games encourage collaborative working, improving communication and social skills. And rather than encouraging competitiveness, we encourage children to support each other to reach shared goals.

For Parents:

1. Reduced Costs: Lower fees can ease financial pressures and make trips more accessible. As a family-run business we are acutely aware of the financial pressures facing families. We endeavour to price our trips fairly, offer off-peak pricing options, and, through the Rootd Fund, offer additional support to schools with a high proportion of pupil premium children.
2. Perceived Value: Parents appreciate schools exploring cost-effective options without compromising quality. At Rootd we offer 10% flexibility in booking numbers, to make planning easier for parents and teachers.
3. Proximity: Choosing a centre closer to home can alleviate concerns about distance. It can also be a major contributor to a lower cost trip. Our locations are situated in the South East of England (Hertfordshire), all easily accessible and within a short distance of both the M1 / M25.
4. Addressing Dissatisfaction: A change can resolve previous issues and offer a fresh start. Trying a trusted provider with a great reputation and positive feedback is a great way to address previous dissatisfaction from parents. At Rootd we answer questions from parents to help them understand what the trip involves and what their children should expect.

Cons of Changing Providers

However, changing your school trip company also comes with potential drawbacks:

For Teachers:

1. Increased Planning: Transitioning requires additional administrative work, including research and communication. We’ve helped schools book their adventures for over 12 years. Our booking process is tried and tested, and designed to be as straightforward as possible.

“The booking of our [Rootd] residential was exceptionally smooth and the staff have always been so helpful in answering questions.” Redbridge Primary School

2. Loss of Familiarity: Established routines and rapport with the current provider are lost. For teachers booking at Rootd for the first time we offer the opportunity to join us for a preview of the camp before booking, which we find really helps when launching the trip with parents and pupils.
3. Risk of Issues: New providers may present unforeseen challenges, such as subpar service or logistical problems. With over 90% of schools choosing to return to Rootd, we’re confident that every trip will be a success.
4. Learning Curve: Teachers may need extra training to adapt to new setups. At Rootd our team doesn’t just stand on the sidelines, the instructors get stuck in and work alongside your group, easing the load on teachers.

For Pupils:

1. Loss of Tradition: Beloved activities from previous trips might be missed. When children dare to leave their comfort zone and try new activities, their confidence can really soar. So, at Rootd, we make sure we include exciting and challenging activities in all our school residential trips.
2. Uncertainty: The new provider may not deliver the same level of enjoyment, safety, or educational value. Our reviews show that this has not been the experience of pupils visiting Rootd.
3. Emotional Impact: Changes can unsettle some pupils, especially those who struggle with transitions or have specific sensory needs. In such instances, Rootd, has welcomed a small group of children to visit in the lead up to the main school trip allowing them to familiarise themselves with the new surroundings. Equally some schools prepare a social story prior to their trip to prepare the pupils in advance.

For Parents:

1. Concerns About Quality: Parents might worry about the new provider’s ability to maintain standards. At Rootd, we hold the LOtC Quality badge and are proud to offer Learning Outside the Classroom approved School trips. You can learn more in our blog post about the importance of LOtC for your school trip provider.
2. Less Familiarity: Sending children to an unfamiliar location can cause unease. That’s why we help schools introduce our venues by running in-person presentations and online webinars, or providing presentations for the school to do this themselves if preferred.
3. Potential Cost Increases: If the switch doesn’t result in savings, families might feel frustrated. We are proud to off-peak pricing and additional support options through the Rootd Fund.

Key Considerations

To ensure a smooth transition when changing your school’s residential company, consider and compare the following:

• Reputation: Thoroughly research the new provider’s reviews especially safeguarding records, staff engagement, accommodation standards and even feedback about catering
• Cost vs. Value: Weigh potential savings against the quality of the experience
• Trial Run: Arrange a day visit or virtual tour of the new provider’s facilities
• Consultation: Involve teachers, parents, and pupils in the decision-making process to help address concerns and build trust.
• By carefully evaluating these factors and conducting thorough research, schools can make informed decisions about their residential trip providers, ensuring the best possible experience for everyone involved.

Real-Life Success Stories

Many schools have successfully transitioned to new providers, reaping significant benefits. For instance, schools that have partnered with Rootd Adventure have reported enhanced student engagement and satisfaction. Our case studies showcase how tailored programs and a focus on nature and adventure have positively impacted pupils’ learning experiences.

Connect with Rootd Adventure

If you’re considering a change in provider and want to explore how Rootd can meet your school’s unique needs, we’d love to connect. Contact our team to book a Teams call or an in-person tour of our camp to get a firsthand experience of what we offer. You can also contact us by phone or email. We look forward to hearing from you!