School Trips and Consent Forms

School trips often require a consent form—agreeing that your child can go and sometimes including release-of-liability language. If you don't read carefully, you might sign a broad waiver that could (in theory) waive claims if your child is hurt—even for negligence. In many places such waivers are limited or unenforceable for minors. Here's what to check in school trip consent forms before you sign.

What the form covers

• Consent. You're giving permission for your child to take part in the trip—destination, dates, transport, activities. Make sure you know what's planned—and that the form matches (e.g. if the trip is abroad, does the form cover that?).
• Release of liability. Many forms include language that you waive claims against the school, staff, or others for injury or damage arising from the trip. Check the scope: is it limited to "inherent risks" (e.g. travel) or does it say "all claims including for negligence"? In many places you cannot waive a child's right to sue for negligence—so even if the form says that, it may not hold up. If your child is hurt due to clear negligence (e.g. unsafe transport, poor supervision), you may still have a claim.

What to look for

• Scope. Is the release limited to specific risks or activities, or does it say "all" or "any"? Narrower is better for you.
• Negligence. Does the form mention negligence? If so, in many jurisdictions that part may not be enforceable for minors. You're not necessarily giving up the right to sue for negligence.
• Emergency contact and medical. Does the form ask for emergency contact and consent for emergency medical treatment? Make sure it's clear who can be contacted and what treatment can be given (e.g. first aid, hospitalisation).

BeforeYouSign can highlight consent and release language in school trip forms so you know what you're agreeing to—and that your rights may be better than the form suggests. If your child is hurt on a trip, don't assume the waiver blocks you—get advice.