Isle of Man Steam Packet Eases School Trip Rules After Complaints

The Isle of Man Steam Packet changed its school trip rule. It now allows eight kids per adult, instead of five. They announced the change in October, after previously requiring one adult per five kids. Before this, it was one adult supervising ten children.

NAHT, a school leaders union, had raised concerns, stating the new rule made trips difficult as Isle of Man kids often need to cross the sea for education and culture. They felt the old rule’s staff requirements presented a challenge.

Increased travel costs impact the schools with charges for DBS checks and accommodation, as it is also often difficult to get adult volunteers. The Steam Packet consulted with various groups and developed new travel policies.

All groups must now sign a travel agreement, holding them accountable, and safety briefings are required. The Steam Packet wants to ensure safety while also allowing for accessible travel.

Brian Thomson, the Steam Packet’s managing director, emphasized that safety is their top priority. Their goal is to balance accessible travel with maintaining safety. The changes started immediately, and the company will help groups adjust.

NAHT stated the old rule negatively impacted children and made off-island trips impractical, burdening schools with constraints and leading to some cancellations. NAHT understood the importance of safety but felt the previous ratio was too strict.