Message from the Scottish Government to :

Local Authority Directors of Education and Principals of Colleges

Copied to: 

• Local Authority Chief Executives
• Independent schools
• Grant Aided Schools
• Teaching Unions

We are aware that some of you have experienced challenges in securing refunds for planned educational trips overseas which have had to be cancelled due to Covid 19.  The UK Government has now updated its advice, both in respect of FCO travel advice and with regard to educational trips. 

Please see the following link to travel guidance for the education sector which was published on Friday:  https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/coronavirus-covid-19-travel-advice-for-educational-settings/coronavirus-travel-guidance-for-educational-settings

This guidance advises against all overseas education trips for an indefinite period of time.  It also advises against domestic visits which, while not supported by FCO travel advice, should not now take place as they would not be compatible with current social distancing requirements.