The Isle of Man Steam Packet Company has revised its child group travel supervision rule, adjusting the adult-to-child ratio from one adult per five children to one adult per eight children. This change, introduced this week, follows a previous tightening of the ratio last October, which was implemented for safety reasons. The updated rule has received endorsement from the Department of Education, Sport and Culture and aims to ensure that young passengers are “appropriately supervised” throughout their journey.
The National Association of Head Teachers (NAHT) had raised concerns about the previous ratio, arguing that it would be "impractical" for schools on the island to organize educational trips to the UK. The requirement for more staff on such trips was seen as a potential barrier to educational opportunities. Regional head for the NAHT, Niamh Sweeney, welcomed the revised rule, acknowledging that while additional staffing would still be necessary, it would "not to the same extent" as before.
"Most school trips are likely to be viable going forward," said Niamh Sweeney, reflecting optimism about the impact of the revised rule.
The revised guidelines stipulate that group leaders can accompany a maximum of four children when moving around the vessel. Schools and organizations will need to review and sign updated travel conditions before making bookings under the new rule. This adjustment aims to balance safety on board with practical considerations for educational institutions planning trips.
The changes have been made to enhance safety measures while addressing concerns from educational bodies. By requiring fewer adults per child group, the Steam Packet Company hopes to facilitate more feasible planning for school trips without compromising on safety standards.
