The USA tops the list of dream school trip destinations for British teenagers, with iconic landmarks such as the Statue of Liberty and Empire State Building being high on their must-see list. A survey of 1,000 pupils from year 7 to 13 revealed that 37 per cent would love to jet off abroad for a school outing with their peers, while 23 per cent would rather explore attractions closer to home.
Despite the allure of the USA, the UK secured second place ahead of Italy, France and Spain in the list of preferred destinations, with popular sights including Buckingham Palace and Big Ben on the bucket list.
(Image: Getty images)
For a third of the youngsters surveyed, an educational trip marked their first time away from home, and for some 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 travel and adventure, with 48 per cent of young people stating that school trips make them feel more independent and mature.
Parents echo this sentiment, with 47 per cent agreeing that school trips help their child learn independence. Indeed, confidence, independence and teamwork are among the skills children have gained the most through school trips. Additionally, a sense of adventure, communication and problem-solving also made 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
“Authentic challenges at home or abroad enable children to reflect and gain perspective – 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 trip memories and discovered 41 per cent believe today’s school excursions are more lavish and thrilling than in their time.
Today’s school trips are so inspiring that three in 10 young people surveyed, said they’ve influenced the subjects they choose to study, with history and geography emerging as the most popular.
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