Major Trip Opportunities UA

FAQs

Last updated June 25, 2024

What are the ratios on UA’s trips?

Our tour providers work on a 6:1 ratio. This can slightly change depending on the number of students (in case of uneven numbers). 

What is UA’s cell phone policy on trips?

Cell phone policies are determined on a trip-to-trip basis based on where the group is travelling and what age the participants are. We consider the school phone policy when making decisions. We want the group to be present throughout the tour experience, but do understand that at times pictures are warranted to preserve the memories. Students must aim to keep their phones away while participating in activities and exploring new areas. Exceptions can be made during travel when on a bus or plane, where students might want quiet time to listen to music or watch a show. At times throughout the trips, teachers/chaperones will tell students to put their phones away and not use them. Occasions such as learning from local citizens or visiting museums with a tour guide would be examples of times when we would expect the students to keep their phones away. The trip chaperones will always let the students know when phones are and are not permitted.

What kind of luggage should we bring?

The students should bring what they need for the trip. Each destination has different weather, so they should consider the duration of the trip and the weather they will encounter at their destination. Each student will need to be able to carry their own bags by themselves and with no assistance.  It is recommended that they pack enough (and comfortable) clothes for the duration of the trip, but should not over-pack. 

It is also recommended that each travelling student pack a change of clothes and the essentials, such as a toothbrush and toothpaste and any medication, in their carry-on bag, in case their luggage is delayed and they do not have access to it for their first night. 

What happens if a student gets sick on a trip?

In response to illnesses, the travel agency has developed additional guidance and protocols, and they have a dedicated list of Doctors on Call. If the student needs to stay at the hotel and be seen by a doctor, the Trip Leader or one of the trip chaperones will wait and stay with the child during the consultation and any treatment required. Should the student be sent to a hospital for an emergency, the Trip Leader and chaperone will be with them the whole time. Throughout the whole process, there will be constant communication with the parents/guardians of the student, and in consultation with everyone, the best choices will be made for the affected student. At no time will the child be left on their own, regardless of the situation. 

How are the rooming arrangements decided?

While on tour, 3-4 students of the same gender will be sharing a room. The Trip Leader and trip chaperones will assign these roommates based on age group, group dynamics, social-emotional well-being, sleep needs, and the number of travellers. Hotel rooms are furnished with either single or double beds; single beds sleep just one person, and double beds may be shared.

What happens if my child has dietary restrictions and/or allergies?

The restaurants chosen are student-friendly and offer a variety of options that accommodate the students’ needs. Any dietary restrictions will be forwarded to the restaurants and hotels, as well as the Tour Director. Although the Tour Director cannot guarantee an allergen-free meal at restaurants or during a student's free time, we strive to accommodate all dietary needs.

What is the plan at school for students who don’t go on the trip?

In each case of the major trips, there will be an adapted plan. The plan will depend on the number of students attending the trip and the number of students remaining in BC. The school will plan an adapted program for those remaining in BC. Types of adaptations to the academic and extracurricular program could include:

• Classes may be amalgamated, and targeted study sessions may be scheduled

• Grade-level groups may be amalgamated for some courses or topics

• Supervised Independent student work time may be scheduled

• Activities that allow for learning related to the cultural trips may be scheduled at UA (for example: some specific Quebecois cultural lessons or Japanese culture and history lessons)

• Some extracurricular clubs may not be in session. 

The school plan for those remaining in BC will be shared with families in the weeks before trip departure.