Top 20 places British teens want to go on a school trip - with the UK making the list
A survey of 1,000 pupils from year 7 to 13 revealed that 37 per cent would prefer an overseas excursion with their classmates, while 23 per cent would actually rather stay in the UK.
Despite the USA leading the list of desired destinations, the UK secured the second spot ahead of Italy, France and Spain, with attractions like Buckingham Palace (25 per cent) and Big Ben (22 per cent) being the most appealing.
For 29 per cent of the youngsters an educational trip was their first experience of staying away from home, and for 17 per cent, it was their first time travelling abroad. This could explain why nearly half of parents believe school trips help their children learn independence.
The study, commissioned by PGL Beyond, also discovered that educational trips offer more than just adventure and travel, with 48 per cent of young people claiming these trips make them feel more independent and mature. Parents echo this sentiment, with 47 per cent agreeing that school trips aid their child's independence.
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 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."
The study also asked parents about their own school trips and found 41 per cent feel today's school trips are more extravagant and exciting today than in their day.
For them, their favourite excursion memories include sharing a room with classmates, visiting new cities, and taking part in activities.
Today's school trips are so inspiring 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
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