There are several steps that can be taken.
- When contracting outside services, the school should have a set of procedures in place. This is usually in the form of a checklist of questions asked of outside providers in order to check they are meeting accepted safety standards. Safe providers will be able to answer these questions satisfactorily and produce documentation in support.
- When hiring an instructor for a particular activity, first find out what the recommended qualifications / logged experience are from the appropriate national organisation or professional body. Ask to see their instructor's warrant/qualification and/or their Logbook of outdoor experience. Check that these match. To determine if an instructor operates safely you can ask for names of clients who can act as referees, and/or ask to observe them working with another group before engaging their services.
- Any hired equipment should have a written log of use and care that ensures equipment is kept up to required standards.
References
Hillary Commission. (1996). Outdoor pursuits: Guidelines
for educators. Wellington: Author.
Ministry of Education. (1995). Checklist for contracting
services. In EOTC
Guidelines for Good Practice. Wellington: Author.
www.safeoutside.org click on:
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