Directorate of School Education Jammu Issues SOPs for School Excursions and Picnics
Directorate of School Education Jammu Issues SOPs for School Excursions and Picnics: The Directorate of School Education, Jammu (DSEJ), has issued a comprehensive set of Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) for all government and recognized private schools organizing excursions, picnics, camps, and other outdoor educational activities. These guidelines aim to promote experiential learning while ensuring the utmost safety and security of students.
In line with the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020, which emphasizes holistic and multidisciplinary education beyond traditional classrooms, schools are encouraged to conduct outings that foster academic, social, emotional, and physical development. However, DSEJ has underlined that student safety must remain a top priority during all such activities.
Key Highlights of the SOPs:
Permission and Approvals:
- Schools can organize a maximum of two picnics or excursions per academic year.
- A detailed picnic calendar must be submitted at the beginning of the session.
- Permissions must be obtained at least 10 days before the scheduled trip:
- Primary and Middle Schools: Permission from the concerned ZEO.
- High and Higher Secondary Schools: Permission from the concerned CEO.
- Inter-district trips: Permission through the respective Joint Directors.
Planning and Preparation:
- Parents must be informed about trip details including purpose, venue, cost, and requirements.
- Individual consent forms signed by parents/guardians are mandatory.
- Excursions should not be planned on weekends or holidays.
- Advance spot inspection by school authorities is required to ensure safety.
- Schools must coordinate with local authorities for additional support.
- Only educational or recreational venues with proper amenities should be chosen.
Transportation Guidelines:
- Only licensed and registered vehicles with valid documents must be hired.
- Drivers must hold valid licenses, adhere to safety norms, and avoid over-speeding.
- Each vehicle should have a conductor/attendant onboard.
- Overloading of vehicles is strictly prohibited.
- Installation of CCTV cameras in vehicles is advised.
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Student Conduct and Discipline:
- Students must wear school uniforms and carry identity cards during trips.
- They should always move in groups under staff supervision.
- Students unfit for travel must not be allowed to join.
- Use of intoxicants, tobacco, junk food, and plastic materials is prohibited.
- No objectionable items should be carried by students.
Safety and Emergency Measures:
- A well-stocked first-aid kit must be carried on every trip.
- At least one trained staff member should be capable of providing first aid.
- There must be one teacher for every 15 students.
- A designated point of contact should be available for parents during the trip.
- At least one female staff member must accompany girl students.
- Trips to high-risk areas like deep water bodies and dense forests are discouraged.
Weather and Travel Precautions:
- Weather forecasts must be checked prior to planning.
- Arrangements for clean drinking water, sun protection, and hygienic food must be ensured.
- For Primary and Middle school students, only short, nearby trips to age-appropriate destinations are recommended.
These detailed SOPs are aimed at making educational excursions safer, more organized, and truly beneficial for students’ holistic development.
The Directorate has instructed all Chief Education Officers (CEOs), Zonal Education Officers (ZEOs), and Cluster Heads across Jammu Division to publicize these guidelines widely for the awareness and compliance of all stakeholders.
For full details, parents and school authorities can visit the official website of the Directorate of School Education Jammu.
Directorate of School Education Jammu Issues SOPs for School Excursions and Picnics: Offical Notification
