5.9 Travel - Underground

Overview

Travel on the London Underground and other metro systems can be busy and unfamiliar for many students. Careful planning and clear group management help ensure that journeys are safe, organised and enjoyable.

Visit Leaders should plan routes in advance, brief participants clearly and ensure supervision arrangements are appropriate for the size and needs of the group.

Planning the Journey

Effective preparation is essential when travelling on underground systems.

Timing and Route Planning

Where possible, travel outside peak hours (approximately 06:30–09:30 and 16:00–19:00) to reduce overcrowding.

You should:

• Use journey planning tools to check routes, connections and travel times
• Carry out a preliminary visit where possible to familiarise yourselves with stations and platforms
• Consider accessibility for participants with SEND or mobility needs
• Allow extra time for moving through busy stations

Travel Schemes

Schools travelling in London may be able to use the School Party Travel Scheme, which provides free off-peak travel on the Tube, buses, DLR and London Overground for registered London schools. Children under 11 may also travel free when accompanied by a fare-paying adult on many services.

Group Management

Busy stations require clear organisation and supervision.

You should:

• Effectively supervise the group at all times
• Use wide access gates where available for easier group movement
• Move the group in small, manageable sections, particularly on stairs or escalators
• Agree a clear meeting point/plan in case anyone becomes separated

Supervision and Safety

Supervision arrangements should be included in the visit’s risk assessment.

Good practice includes:

• Carrying out regular headcounts/registers, particularly when boarding or leaving trains
• Using buddy systems or smaller sub-groups supervised by adults
• Setting clear expectations about behaviour and movement within stations
• Considering high-visibility/distinct clothing to help identify group members

Participants should also know their destination and have key contact details if needed.

Station and Train Conduct

Participants should be briefed on safe behaviour in stations and on trains.

You should remind students to:

• Hold handrails on escalators and stand on the right-hand side
• Follow staff instructions when boarding or leaving trains
• Move safely away from the platform edge
• Wait together in a safe area once leaving a train

Adults should position themselves strategically to supervise the group effectively.

Managing Crowds and Emergencies

Busy transport systems can present challenges, so leaders should remain alert to changing conditions.

You should:

• Identify exits, meeting points and potential crowded areas in advance
• Be prepared with alternative routes in case of delays or cancellations
• Ensure participants know what to do if they become separated or miss a train
• Move the group away from crowded areas if conditions become uncomfortable or unsafe

Links to further reading

OEAP National Guidance available at https://oeapng.info

Transport for London – School Party Travel Scheme. Year-round applications for registered schools. Visit https://tfl.gov.uk/fares/free-and-discounted-travel/travel-for-schools