Somerset Outdoor Education and Off-Site Visit Guidance has been updated and is now available to download from the SSE website.

The revised guidance includes new information to help schools manage allergens and support pupils with food allergies during educational visits, residentials and other off-site activities.

Key additions include:

  • Considerations for allergy management during planning and risk assessment
  • Guidance on obtaining and sharing allergy information
  • Advice on emergency arrangements and access to medication
  • Links to Somerset Council allergy guidance and resources
  • Practical considerations when using activity centres, catering providers and other third-party venues

The update reflects the increasing importance of allergy management in educational settings and aims to help schools ensure appropriate arrangements are in place before visits take place.

Educational Visits Coordinator (EVC) Training

EVCs play a vital role in ensuring visits are planned safely and effectively. Whether you are new to the role or require a refresher, Somerset Council offers EVC training to support you.

Available courses include:

  • EVC Initial Training
  • EVC Refresher Training

The courses cover:

  • Roles and responsibilities of the EVC
  • Visit planning and approval processes
  • Risk management
  • Educational visits guidance requirements
  • Recent updates, including managing allergies and supporting pupils with medical needs on visits

We encourage all EVCs to ensure their training remains current and to book onto the next available course on the SSE website:

External Visits Coordinator

Thursday, 1 October 2026, 09:30-15:00 Broughton House, Blackbrook Park Avenue, Taunton

External Visits Coordinator

Wednesday, 9 December 9:30-15:00 Broughton House, Blackbrook Park Avenue, Taunton

About this article

September 28, 2026

Pam Price