Sachnews Jammu Kashmir
Srinagar, April 13: The Directorate of School Education Kashmir (DSEK) has issued a detailed set of Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) for all educational institutions, government, private schools, and coaching centres conducting student outings including picnics and camps.
As per the order issued by the Director School Education, Kashmir:
"Whereas,excursions and picnics/camps are crucial in the NEP-2020 framework for promoting holistic student development,experiential learning,and a more engaging educational experience.They offer a break from the traditional classroom setting,encouraging social interaction, team building, and real-world learning opportunities but at the same time we need to ensure the safety and wellbeing of the students which needs to be our prime concern during these pace setting exercises.
In view of the advisory from Tourism Department, Kashmir & Traffic Police J&K, it has been felt imperative to issue following Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) for Educational institutions (both Govt. & recognized Private Schools,and coaching centres) in the interest of student's safety & wellbeing during such outings."
Key directives in the order include:
Planning & Permission:
Parents should be informed about the purpose of the trip, timing, destination, and items to carry.
The visiting spot should be selected on the basis of its educational implications to derive maximum benefit to the students & teachers about their learning Teaching.
Depute one active staff member,in advance to the proposed place, who shall inform and coordinate with the development authority and local administration under whom the proposed place falls.
All the School staff should be given the full responsibly of the activities related to discipline and safety of students during the picnic.
Senior staff members should not skip this outing but guide other staff members properly.
Students should not leave before 8.00 am from the campus of the School and should be back to their respective homes by 6 pm.
Ensure adequate supervision with a minimum ratio of 1 teacher per 15 students for escorting them.
First aid kits must be carried on all trips,and at least one staff member should be trained in basic first aid.
Emergency contact numbers and health information for all students must be available with staff.
Educational institution shall cooperate with police/security agencies deployed for maintenance of law and order.
Educational institution shall not allow the students to venture/play near the water bodies /restricted areas/forest areas or any such place which may prove dangerous or shall be conflicting with the wild animals.
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Transportation:
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Only authorized and licensed transport operators approved by Motor Vehicle Department, J&K shall be hired having all the requisite certificates.
Vehicles must be in good condition with proper documentation, including registration, insurance and fitness certificates.
The escort drivers must have valid driving licence.
Escort Teachers to ensure that nobody should be allowed to encourage thrilling driving during the travel and the speed is strictly maintained as per the prescribed limits and road condition. Sachnews Jammu Kashmir
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- Students should wear proper uniform and no student should be allowed to travel without proper school uniform.
- Students are expected to follow the code of conduct and behave responsibly at all times.
- Consumption of junk food, plastic/polythene use, or any prohibited items must be discouraged and the junk and wastage should be properly disposed of in dust bins.
- Teachers must ensure that students move only in safe spaces and avoid unsafe activities.
- Check the weather forecast before planning outdoor activities.
- Make arrangements for drinking water, sun protection, and hygienic food.
- Avoid destinations with potential health risks or unsafe conditions.
- Also long distance picnics/outings shall be avoided for Middle School level students.
“The cooperation of all school staff is essential in ensuring that school outings, picnics, and camps remain safe, enjoyable, and educational experiences for students. The SOPs, as mentioned above, shall be followed in letter and spirit.”