Derwent Hill
Advisory Service
Advisory Service
Supporting visits for Sunderland children and young people
Welcome to Sunderland City Council’s External Visits Advisory Service (EVAS). We are based at Derwent Hill but are easily accessible through this website, by phone on 017687 72005, or by email to EVAS@sunderland.gov.uk
We use the term External Visits to include educational visits by schools, off-site activities by youth groups, outings from early-years settings, holidays from residential homes, etc.
Structured activities outside the classroom, particularly in the outdoors, are often the most memorable learning experiences, helping children and young people to make sense of the world around them by making links between feelings and learning. They stay with them into adulthood and affect their values, behaviour, lifestyle and work.
We provide information, advice and support for schools and other services regarding the planning and organisation of external visits involving children, young people and vunerable adults, and we monitor practice. We also run training courses for External Visits Co-ordinators and Group Leaders.
The detail of the service we provide to schools is described in an Enhanced Partnership Agreement -a downloadable copy is available below.
All external visits require approval. Approval for most visits may be given by Head Teachers or service managers, but for visits that include adventure activities, remote environments or travelling out of the UK approval must be obtained from the Advisory Service (unless this responsibility has been specifically delegated). Details are available in the policy document and on the FAQ page.
To keep this website current and relevant we review any new guidance from the DfES and other agencies. We welcome any questions, information or feedback about this website. Enjoy your visits!