Trips 2026

Aims and Objectives for Service Trips

1. To provide a meaningful and impactful service experience that benefits the local community.

2. To encourage personal and social development including:

• increase understanding of different cultures and ways of life

• experience of a challenge and acquisition of new skills related to service work

• achievement of a sense of responsibility and leadership in service

• a sense of accomplishment and an opportunity to make a positive difference

• greater self-awareness and self confidence

• closer relationships within peer groups and with teachers

• a better understanding of social issues and global citizenship.

3. To allow cross curricular transfer. To enable the students to use and develop their skills and knowledge from a variety of subjects e.g. Global Perspectives, Language, Science etc.

4. To be successful ambassadors abroad for Singapore and the school.

Safety & Risk Guidelines

Ensuring student safety and well-being remains the highest priority on all service trips. Our risk management approach is built on careful pre-departure planning, partnership with trusted providers, and the shared responsibility of all participants to uphold safety protocols at every stage.

Students are expected to take these guidelines seriously:

1. Respect Local Culture and Context

You will be engaging in communities with diverse cultures and norms. Respecting local customs is not only a matter of cultural sensitivity, but also a key aspect of risk mitigation and student safety.

2. Report Emergencies Promptly

In the event of an emergency—whether personal, medical, environmental, or group-related—students must immediately notify a member of the trip staff. Do not attempt to manage emergencies on your own.

3. Follow Instructions in Emergency Situations

Emergency protocols have been designed to prioritise safety and ensure a clear response pathway. All students must follow trip staff instructions quickly and without resistance during such situations.

4. Contribute to Group Safety

Your actions impact others. All students are expected to act responsibly, follow established guidelines, and proactively avoid behaviours that may increase risk to themselves or others. Failure to do so may result in disciplinary action or removal from the trip.

5. Be Aware of Environmental and Fire Safety

Familiarise yourself with your accommodation’s safety infrastructure (e.g., fire exits, evacuation routes). Avoid open flames, inappropriate use of electronic devices, or any behaviour that may cause fire or environmental hazards.

6. Adhere to School and Provider Protocols

ACS (International)’s risk management procedures are developed in partnership with each trip provider. You are expected to comply with both school policies and the specific safety standards shared during briefings and on-site.

Code of Conduct

Participation in service trips organized by ACS (International) is voluntary. As these trips are non-compulsory, students and parents must opt in voluntarily, and the school reserves the right to accept or reject participants based on risk assessment and project-specific Essential Eligibility Criteria (EEC).

Student Code of Conduct

All student participants are expected to uphold the values and high standards associated with ACS (International). The Code of Conduct is not only a matter of discipline, but a commitment to respect, responsibility, and safety in both local and international settings.

Students must:

1. Demonstrate respect towards all individuals, including peers, staff, tour operators, and members of the public.

2. Comply fully with instructions from trip leaders, supervisors, and local facilitators.

3. Behave and dress appropriately, considering the cultural norms, customs, and laws of the destination.

4. Maintain a cooperative and positive attitude, contributing to a supportive group dynamic.

5. Prioritize personal and group safety; avoid unnecessary risks.

6. Stay vigilant and report any concerns to staff immediately.

7. Adhere to the Code of Conduct for the entire duration of the trip.

Strictly prohibited behaviours include:

• Possession, consumption, or influence of alcohol, tobacco, illegal drugs, or controlled substances.

• Any form of sexual activity or inappropriate behaviour.

• Actions that endanger self or others, or that may damage the reputation of the school.

• Leaving the group or accommodation without permission from trip staff.

Consequences for Misconduct

Serious breaches of the Code (e.g., drug/alcohol use, sexual activity, dangerous behaviour) may result in the student being sent home at the family’s expense, including staff escort fees if necessary. Decisions are final and made at the discretion of the trip leader or senior leadership team.

Other breaches may result in:

• Verbal or written warnings.

• Temporary removal from group activities.

• Loss of leisure privileges.

• Parental notification during the trip.

• Sanctions upon return to school.

• Disqualification from future trips.

All school rules apply during the trip, and participants are reminded that they represent the school, their family, and their country. Behaviour that jeopardizes this program will not be tolerated.

Roles and Responsibilities of Parents/Guardians

Parents/guardians play a crucial role in ensuring the success of the service trip. By consenting to their child’s participation, they agree to:

1. Make informed decisions about their child’s suitability for the trip after reviewing all relevant information.

2. Reinforce student responsibility by discussing the Code of Conduct and the importance of respect, safety, and cultural awareness.

3. Support school protocols, including covering costs if a child is sent home due to misconduct.

4. Accept financial responsibility for any damage or claims resulting from their child’s actions not covered by insurance.

5. Ensure medical readiness, including permission for emergency treatment as outlined in the consent form.

6. Acknowledge school authority to determine the final trip roster and to exclude participants who may pose a safety or logistical risk due to physical or behavioural concerns.

Forms for download

By signing, you agree that you understand and accept the expectations, responsibilities, and consequences set out for the trip.

Parental Consent Form 

Code of Conduct Form