FAQ's

We have answered the most frequently asked questions below, however if you cannot find the information that you require please contact us and an advisor will be happy to help you.

Is YHA experienced in hosting school groups?
Can you assist with funding?
Can you help with planning our visit?

Do you offer FREE leader places?
What are the recommended leader ratios?
Can you help with risk assessments?
Do you have a suggested kit list?
Can you assist with transport requirements?
Who do I contact if I have further questions?

Is YHA experienced in hosting school groups?

YHA School Trips has been devised by drawing upon more than 75 years experience of providing young people with budget accommodation in a network of centres throughout England and Wales.

Staff at our centres are experienced in organising group visits and are happy to offer advice on how you can make your trip successful. Take advantage of the free planning visit available and you have the prefect opportunity to meet the staff at your chosen centre and ask any pertinent questions.

Can you assist with funding?

YHA School Trips can help to fund places for financially disadvantaged children so they can join their friends or classmates on residential visits with YHA (England & Wales). Last year, through the generous support of our partners, YHA enabled nearly 3,000 disadvantaged young people throughout England and Wales to enjoy a residential activity break at YHA hostels. For more information click here

Can you help with planning our visit?

With more than 75 years of experience, you can be confident in the knowledge that we will make planning your residential visit as easy as possible. Our dedicated Group Reservations team is here to assist you with all aspects of your residential visit. Simply contact us to discuss your requirements.

In order for group leaders to familiarise themselves with the property, accommodation arrangements, and to meet the staff, your chosen centre will provide a FREE bed and breakfast planning visit* for up to two people (subject to availability) prior to your stay.

Do you offer FREE leader places?

Yes. We appreciate that you need to keep your costs to a minimum, which is why we offer one FREE leader place for every 10 paying participants*

What are the recommended leader ratios?

For school and youth groups there must be one adult leader of each sex if it is a mixed party, in a ratio of at least 1:15 (YHA recommends 1:10). For school groups YHA accepts teaching assistants, parents or guardians as sub-leaders, where there is a qualified leader assigned to each sex.

We advise that you also check the leader ratios suggested by your Outdoor Education Advisor.

Can you help with risk assessments?

The welfare of participants is our prime concern and we invest heavily in our duty of care. Due to the individuality of each of our centres a site specific ‘Group Stay Risk Assessment' is available on request from each site manager. If you require additional assistance with preparing risk assessment documents, our managers are happy to support you during your free planning visit.

Do you have a suggested kit list?

Due to the variety of activities available from YHA, each centre has a course specific kit list available upon request. All essential activity and safety equipment is provided, but pupils will need personal clothing, footwear and toiletries. We recommend that pupils leave new and expensive belongings at home.

Can you assist with transport requirements?

Fraser Eagle is YHA's preferred transport supplier. The company has decades of experience in group transport, all the coaches meet stringent safety guidelines and all the drivers are certified with advanced CRB checks. They ensure that the safety needs of school children are met with the highest priority. For more information click here.

Who do I contact if I have further questions?

Our team of Group Advisors are here to support you with all aspects of your visit. Whether you need more advice on the courses available, or want to make a booking, please contact us. Alternatively, you may choose to call your chosen centre directly, where the Centre Manager will be pleased to assist you.


*Applies to full board bookings only.