The EVC Magazine Summer 2024 - Magazine - Page 30
In conversation with
EDDIE AYLETT, PRINCIPAL, BOWER PARK ACADEMY
WHAT DOES THE FUTURE OF EDUCATIONAL
VISITS LOOK LIKE?... A SCHOOL LEADER’S VIEW
Eddie Aylett is Principal at Bower Park Academy, Essex. He participated in panel
at the National Educational Visits Conference on 13 June, where the question for
discussion was: Is the future of educational visits at risk? We asked Eddie to share his
views with readers. Here he explains why he sees a positive future for school trips and
visits… if schools and providers adapt to meet today’s challenges.
In your view, what does the future of
educational visits look like?
E: I see a strong future. I think it will be more
integrated with the curriculum, focusing on
experiential and real-world applications. We’ll
see a greater emphasis on sustainability, local
engagement and leveraging technology to
enhance the experience.
Educational visits are essential for providing
young people with hands-on learning
opportunities that go beyond the classroom.
They play a crucial role in developing wellrounded individuals by exposing them to
new environments and challenges. We must
ensure they remain a key part of the school
experience.
How are things changing?
E: As schools, we’re driven by the need to
make these visits more accessible, costeffective and relevant to our students’
futures.
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There’s a shift towards more localised
experiences and the use of digital tools to
prepare students beforehand and extend
learning afterward.
“
SCHools need a culture
and values that
support experiential
learning
What do schools need to do? Is school
culture relevant?
E: Many perceive educational visits as mere
recreational activities but, in reality, they are
critical for a holistic education. They offer
practical experiences that enhance academic
learning, build life-skills and foster emotional
and social development.
Clear communication about the educational
value of visits can bridge this gap.
