A poll of 1,000 pupils in school years 7-13 found 37% say they would like to go abroad for an excursion with classmates, while 23% would prefer to stay on home soil
The USA has emerged as the top destination British teenagers are keen to visit on a school trip, with iconic landmarks such as the Statue of Liberty (31%) and Empire State Building (29%) topping their wish list. The survey of 1,000 students from year 7 to 13 revealed that 37% would love to go overseas with their classmates, however, 23% shared they would rather stick to UK-based excursions.
The UK came in second, following the USA as the most desired school trip location, beating Italy, France and Spain. The most sought-after sights included Buckingham Palace (25%) and Big Ben (22%).
For a third of the youngsters surveyed, an educational trip is their first time away from home, and for 17%, it was their first experience of travelling abroad. This could explain why nearly half of parents believe school trips foster independence in their children.
The study, commissioned by PGL Beyond, also found that educational trips offer more than just adventure and travel. A significant 48% of young people claimed that school trips made them feel more independent and mature.
Confidence, independence and teamwork were also among the skills children reported gaining the most from school trips. Additionally, a sense of adventure, communication skills and problem-solving abilities also featured on the list.
Dr John Allan, head of impact & breakthrough learning at school tours provider, PGL Beyond, said: “At a time when young people seem to be cocooned in virtual worlds, school trips are a vital part of their healthy upbringing, opening up real experiences that deliver personal growth and lifelong impact.”
History of school trips
“Authentic challenges at home or abroad enable children to reflect and gain perspective,” Dr John adds, “to see beyond the immediacy of their personal experience and to focus on the wider world around them. Importantly, they build the resilience needed for them to adapt to present difficulties and build capacity for their future.”
The study also quizzed parents about their own school trips and discovered 41% believe today’s school trips are more lavish and thrilling than in their day. For them, their favourite trip memories include sharing a room with classmates (36%), visiting new cities (36%), and participating in activities (35%).
Alison Sudbury, chief customer officer at PGL Beyond, added: “What truly matters for any child, is the confidence gained on a first trip away from home.
“The curiosity sparked in a new city. The friendships built, the comfort zones stretched, and the moments that shape who they become.
“That’s why school trips are so instrumental in helping young people to achieve key breakthroughs which can impact their life now and in the future.”
TOP 20 PLACES TEENS WANT TO GO ON A SCHOOL TRIP:
- USA
- England
- Italy
- France
- Spain
- Japan
- Canada
- Greece
- Australia
- Germany
- Switzerland
- Scotland
- Iceland
- China
- Wales
- New Zealand
- The Netherlands
- Austria
- Denmark
- Singapore