The School Journey Association believes that all children benefit significantly by extending their learning environment beyond the classroom. School visits offer children the opportunity of first hand learning experiences that will enrich their lives whilst encouraging personal development that will lead to greater independence.

Founded in 1911, The School Journey Association is a registered charity with the Charity Commission and has the sole purpose of offering inclusive learning experiences to all children including those with learning and physical disabilities and those from disadvantaged families. It is run by teachers and ex-teachers, with technical advisers, who are all unpaid volunteers.

Our experienced tour consultant planners, who are our only paid staff, help schools to organise unique tours and exciting journeys designed to interest and stimulate pupils and students and to extend the curriculum. The tours are designed to match the school's requirements including those for children with Special Needs, both learning and physical.

Tour leaders are supported throughout every step of the difficult task of organising the visit. Telephone advice is available and our comprehensive informative leaders' pack contains information and resources to aid and reassure. Free preliminary leader's over-night accommodation can also be arranged.

In 2011, we will be celebrating our Centenary Year. Founded in 1911, we have been looking back at how we have developed over the last 100 years.

GREAT VALUE

SJA is a non-profit making charity. This means that we aim to keep our costs of each school tour to the absolute minimum whilst ensuring quality accommodation, excellent transport links, safety and comfort .

We are able to obtain reduced entrance fees by our bulk purchasing power and this is passed on to each school party.

For disadvantaged families, the charity aims to support up to half the cost of the visit.

To summarise: SJA offers

• A range of individually tailored, stimulating tours and exciting journeys designed to extend the pupils' and students' learning.
• Quality service, based on many years of experience, including booking accommodation and transfers by airline, coach, ferry and train.
• Support for children with Special Educational and Physical Needs.
• Financial support for pupils and students from disadvantaged families.
• Free itinerary booking.
• Full financial cover for any eventuality through ABTA and ATOL.
• Insurance at group rates designed specifically for schools.
• Risk assessment advice and help with documentation concerning Government regulations.
• Guidance about school journeys for parents, staff, Governors and Authorities.
• Free preliminary visit (over-night accommodation) where necessary.
• Emergency back-up.
• Value for money.