Breakwater Beach Visits HandbookThe Breakwater Beach is a small north-facing beach at the mouth of the River Dee and the entrance to Aberdeen Harbour. It is protected from the sea by a wall thus is slightly less exposed than other beach sites around Aberdeen City. The variety of ships, marine life and onshore habitats make it a suitable venue for pre-school children to visit.

ABERDEEN BREAKWATER BEACH Grid Reference: NJ 96 5 05 7

Owner/manager above the high tide line: Aberdeen City CouncilOwner/manager below the high tide line: Aberdeen Harbour

Contact details of owner/site managersBoth organisations must be consulted regarding any issue to do with visits to the Breakwater Beach, subject to which part of the beach is being used (above or below high tide or both).

Ian TalboysCountryside OfficerHousing and Environment, Environmental ServicesAberdeen City Council38 Powis TerraceKittybrewsterAberdeen AB25 3RF Direct Dial 01224 897400

Dock Control OfficersAberdeen HarbourTel: 01224 597000Email: dco@aberdeen-harbour.co.uk

Main contact: Patrick Jordan

Coastguard Tel: 999 or 112 and ask for “Coastguard”

Useful information can also be found here:http://www.aberdeencoastguardcrt.co.uk/info.htm

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MAISIE MUNRO NURSERY Breakwater Beach Visits Handbook

CONTENTS

1. Getting there and back2. Before going to the beach3. At the beach4. Litter5. Scottish Outdoor Access Code6. Emergency Procedures7. Notes for Helpers

Appendix 1: Site information checklistAppendix 2: Site appraisal of Breakwater BeachAppendix 3: Aberdeen City V1 FormAppendix 4: Aberdeen City V6 FormAppendix 5: Daily site check formAppendix 6: Equipment ListAppendix 7: Daily off-site registerAppendix 8: Visit leader’s checklistAppendix 9: Aberdeen City Emergency and Incidents Guidance

Setting up the Wee Green Spaces off-site visitsPreparation is required that is slightly more than a one-off visits because routines need to be established and everyone needs to know why regular visits to one or two known places benefits the children in their care. Make sure you have completed:

Appendix 1: Site information checklist (this is so that the owner/manager of the site knows about your visits).

Appendix 2: Site appraisal form (this shows you have visited the site and thought about its suitability for the children in your class or group).

Appendix 3: Aberdeen City V1 form. There are tips on what you need to ensure you have in place and permissions sought.

Appendix 4: Aberdeen City V6 Contact information form. Each member of staff have completed their OIL module on working near water. Risk benefit assessments are in place – this will need adjusting on an ongoing basis. You have informed parents/carers and they have completed the annual block consent form. This

needs to be accompanied by the V8 Form about the terms and conditions. You will need to include a statement about use of handwipes and the availability of soap and running water.

You have authorisation from your Head of Establishment (sign V1 form). You have emailed the V1 form to Adventure Aberdeen

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OverviewThe aim of this handbook is to provide staff, volunteers and others with information about the ongoing visits to the Breakwater Beach.

1. Getting there and back

The children are transported in the minibus which can take up to four children and three adults (including the qualified driver). The exact route taken may vary depending on local traffic conditions. The most common route is marked on the map below and should be considered the norm:

RouteAt the end of Richmondhill Place, turn left down King’s Gate Road to Rosemount Place. At the roundabout just after Skene Square School, turn right and go under Union Street. Follow the road round. At the Guild St junction turn left onto the A93 and almost immediately turn right onto the A956 Market St. Follow the road over Victoria Bridge. Take the second left junction onto Sinclair Road. Follow the road and trun left onto Greyhope Road. Park at the car park just past the Torry Battery.

The minibus is parked at the parking area opposite the Breakwater Beach. There is one road to cross. The beach is accessed via a pedestrian gate and steps down to the beach.

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2. BEFORE GOING TO THE BEACH

Site VisitThe Breakwater Beach is inspected on the morning of each visit. The daily site check (Appendix 4) is completed by the person who does this and decides whether the visit should go ahead or whether an alternative activity is needed. The site is sheltered so wind in the car park does not mean that it is too windy on the beach.

The Visit LeaderThis staff member ensures the planning and preparations have been undertaken to make each visit run smoothly and has overall responsibility on the visit. If this job is rotated then put together use the checklist of what needs to happen – See Appendix 2, 3 and 7.

Clothing and footwear Given the cool climate and fickle weather, children and adults must have suitable clothing and

footwear: Waterproof and windproof jackets and trousers, or similar Layers of clothing which include base layers and warm mid-layers Warm socks, hat, scarf and gloves in winter Sunhat on hot days Footwear: wellies (with warm thick socks in colder months) or other waterproof boots. You will also

need to decide about when and if children may go barefoot Sunscreen should be considered even on cloudy days as the weather can change.

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3. AT THE BEACHIntroduction and safety briefingAt the car park, everyone stops and looks at the Breakwater Beach. The weather conditions and tides will be discussed. Children will be asked what they need to remember when playing on the beach (boundaries, group expectations, who to go to for help, looking after the area and its wildlife, gathering calls, what to do if…)

ShelterThe bothy bag is useful as a temporary shelter. Alternatively a trench shelter may be dug especially on cold, or windy days. Cover with a tarp. You will need to remember spades to do this.

BoundariesThe Breakwater Beach has natural boundaries:

The sea to the north The wall to the east The grassy bank to the south The rocks to the west

Adults should keep an eye on the whereabouts of all the children. The children are expected to know these natural boundaries.

Snacks and drinksSnack is prepared in line with food hygiene guidelines available at the centre. Where necessary, appropriate adjustments are made for being outside. Refer to the Food Hygiene risk assessment. Staff should have extra snack and flasks of warm drinks in case children are hungry or need a warm drink. A bottle of drinking water is also available.

Hand hygieneIt is important that hygiene outdoors is given the same attention as indoors. Health Protection Scotland (HPS) advise that children wash their hands with soap and running water: After using the toilet / changing a nappy Before and after eating, drinking or preparing food After sneezing, nose blowing or coughing If hands are soiled/dirty

The kit will be placed at the shelter along with the canister of water. Handwipes and gel are available in the kit too.

Toileting arrangementsThe Scottish Outdoor Access Code is followed when going to the toilet outside. There are no public conveniences near the beach. A travel potty is used. Ensure the child has privacy – behind a rock or under the bothy bag shelter if needed. Only Maisie’s staff are to assist children.

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WeatherChildren’s wellbeing is the priority at all times and they are closely observed. We will cut short a session if the weather is inclement and children are not coping.

Watch the sea wall when it’s wild and windy. Spray and water will come over the edge and create waterfalls going down. It’s amazing to look at.

The SeaAll the adults must ensure they know about the tide direction and how the sea behaves at the Breakwater Beach. How much interaction happens between the sea and the group depends on the weather and seasons.

The water is swirly around the rocks – the children need to know not to go into the sea here – use common sense judgement about the conditions.

BoatsThe big boats are great to watch. However they create a wash so step back a few feet from the shore and get the children to observe the wash.

PaddlingNo member of the party should go into the sea, except when paddling is an agreed, planned for, activity. We encourage the children to look for white horses on the waves as this tells us that the sea conditions are getting rough. There is a ring buoy at the beach for emergency use. Always check it is there!

This only happens on calm days, in line with the risk benefit assessment procedures. One adult needs to be in the water with the children.

There is a change of clothing for children who get wet.

Rock poolingThere are rocks and pools which children can explore if accompanied by an adult. As much as possible children should be encouraged carefully clamber over the rocks without assistance, using hands as well as feet! Refer to the advice about handling marine life in the “Notes for Helpers” in Appendix 4 and the Rock pooling risk benefit assessment.

The concrete slopeIf a child wishes to climb this slope then supervision is necessary until it is clear a child is competent at managing on the slope. Encourage a child new to the slope to climb a little way first before coming down and gradually building up confidence this way.

Collection and use of natural materialsIn line with the right to beachcomb as outlined in the Scottish Outdoor Access Code, children will be allowed to use collect and use natural materials such as seaweed, shells and stones as part of their play.

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They will be encouraged to do this in a sustainable and responsible manner. Refer to the Natural Materials risk benefit assessment.DogsDogs will appear on the beach from time to time with their owners. Remind children not to pet a dog unless it is clearly safe to do so. Help children learn to turn their backs on a dog which is out of control. The party should leave the beach if an aggressive dog arrives.

The Dog Warden’s phone number is 01224 523737. The team deal with concerns about dog fouling as well as other aspects of dog ownership.

Seals and other animals on beachDo not approach. They have teeth and can bite. Enjoy watching from a distance. If you find an injured or dead animal or bird, phone the SSPCA Animal Helpline 03000 999 999

Dolphins can be seen, particularly towards midday just beyond the sea wall. Look for a darker shape which moves – they do jump out of the water. When you see one, you will recognise it.

BirdsThere is a good variety of bird life. Look for groups of eider on the sea. Cormorants sit at the end of the sea wall by the light house and hang their wings out to dry. Oyster catchers and gulls can also be seen.

Wildlife crimeThis covers a wide range of activities which may include poisoning animals such as birds of prey, cracking open fresh water pearl mussels or any illegal destruction and theft of animals or plants. PAWS Scotland1 website gives more information and you can download an app which provides information about what to do and not to do.

FireFires are only established when there is a minimum of three adults as one must supervise the fire. Any fire must be managed using a Leave No Trace approach and in line with the Scottish Outdoor Access Code. Follow the procedures outlined in the Fire Risk Benefit Assessment.

Alternative activitiesThere are walks which can be taken around the Torry Battery and in both directions along the seashore. Sticks are found going towards the harbour and lots of shells. Going the other way are big rocks and a stony beach.

1 http://www.scotland.gov.uk/Topics/Environment/Wildlife-Habitats/paw-scotland/7

4. LITTERBe careful when finding litter on the beach. There may be sharp objects, syringes, broken glass, etc. Any dangerous litter needs to be left alone but reported to the group leader. It needs to be marked off so children know not to pick it up.

Drums and containers Are they empty? (if unsure, do not attempt to open or pierce) Is the container leaking. (Yes - stay upwind if it is). Call the Coastguard (pollution threat.) Are there any markings on the container. (No - Then think Danger Yes - make a note, and pass on to

the Coastguard.) If in any doubt, call the Coastguard or Local Authority.

Unidentified Objects - things to report Where is it? How visible is it? (half buried, on top of sand/rock) What size is it? What colour is it? What shape is it? Are there any markings? Features - does it have fins, horns, wires, pins? DO NOT touch anything you are unsure of. Leave it to the experts.

Pyrotechnics - Explosives If you find something that you think is explosive, do not pick it up. Try to mark the site in some way. Make a note of what it looks like (see Unidentified Object above) Call the Coastguard. Do not use your mobile phone near any ordinance you find. Explosives come in all shapes & sizes. If unsure leave well alone. The markings may have been

washed or rubbed off by the sand!

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5. SCOTTISH OUTDOOR ACCESS CODE2

The Scottish Outdoor Access Code is an important piece of Scottish legislation which affects everyone as it is about our rights and responsibilities when outdoors.

The Code is based upon three key principles and these apply to both the public and to land managers:

Respect the interests of other people. Acting with courtesy, consideration and awareness is very important. If you are exercising access rights, make sure that you respect the privacy, safety and livelihoods of those living or working in the outdoors, and the needs of other people enjoying the outdoors.

Care for the environment. If you are exercising access rights, look after the places you visit and enjoy, and leave the land as you find it. Help maintain the natural and cultural features which make the outdoors attractive to visit and enjoy.

Take responsibility for your own actions. If you are exercising access rights, remember that the outdoors cannot be made risk-free and act with care at all times for your own safety and that of others.

Remember that everyone only has access rights if they exercise them responsibly!

Embedding the principles into the Breakwater Beach visits

1) We take responsibility for our actions We aware of natural hazards, such as high winds, floods, harmful plants, etc. We teach

children to recognise these and behave appropriately. We recognise that the Breakwater Beach and car park are working environments. We keep

out of the way of people working and/or change our plans if necessary

2) We respect people’s privacy and peace of mind We use the path when going up and down from the beach. We let other users pass us by We ensure our activities do not take over the entire beach to the extent that other others

feel unwelcome

3) Help land managers and others to work safely and effectively: We let the Coastguard, Aberdeen Harbour and Aberdeen City Council know if anything is

amiss when we are at the beach. We leave all gates as we find them

4) Care for your environment We avoid intentionally or recklessly disturbing or destroying plants, birds and other animal or

geological features. We have a code of practice when rock pooling and exploring the beach We have a leave no trace approach and take all our litter away. Our toileting procedures do

not damage the environment.

2 These notes are slightly adapted from http://www.outdooraccess-scotland.com/ and http://www.snh.org.uk/pdfs/publications/access/8-12%20activity%20guide.pdf Accessed 8/1/12

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6. EMERGENCY PROCEDURESIn the event of an emergency, it is necessary to have a plan of action. Please see Appendix 9 for Aberdeen City Council advice and guidance which must be followed.

Minor incidentChildren and adults immediately gather at the backpacks when called. Have a song ready to sing or simple game, if needed to distract and reassure children. If incident is managed group can return to normal activities in due course.

More severe incidentIt may be necessary to leave the beach. If there is time, then try not to rush. Gather belongings and move group back to minibus and return to Maisie’s Centre. Non-driver to phone ahead. Be careful what is said over the phone in front of children.

A serious incidentIf an incident happens which requires immediate evacuation, then: Make sure the driver has the minibus keys and leave immediately. Leave belongings on the beach. If main path is in accessible, then leave beach the path towards the harbour. Either way – the road

can be accessed. Phone the emergency services for assistance if needed. Phone Maisie’s administrator as soon as possible, in a way which does not raise alarm to inform

centre of situation. Return to the centre if possible. Alternatively seek shelter at Walker Road Primary School which is

the nearest school to the beach.

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7: Breakwater Beach - Notes for helpers

Remember the fun you used to have when you were a child – that is the experience we want children to have!

It’s about each child being at one with their environment in his or her own way – please do not intrude or make assumptions if they are on their own – that’s their choice.

Support them to take risks where they want to – within safe limits!

Leave them to pursue their own ideas rather than direct their play.

Paddling is an organised activity which depends upon the tides and weather conditions. So do not assume this will happen. Check with Maisie’s staff.

Digging in the sand is great down to about the waist of a child. Tunnelling is not okay.

Help us ensure children stay within the agreed boundaries.

Try not to use the word “DON’T” more than you have – only in emergencies!

The children all go to the toilet before we leave Nursery but if any child needs to go when we are out, a staff member will take them.

Enjoy the peace and tranquillity yourself – take time to look, listen and rest!

Look out for:

Dog poo – if you see some, point it out to children so they are aware of it and can try to avoid it. We have bags which are used to pick up poo. Please ask.

Litter – any picking up is appreciated. There are litter pickers. Avoid hazardous litter and let Maisie’s staff know about it.

Children wandering towards the sea. Walking along the shoreline and watching the sea is very interesting but do not take a child into the water.

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Be friendly to the environment3

Remember how important it is to be friendly to the environment around you, and to make sure you do not damage or kill the plants and animals you are observing. The following rules will help you out:

Buckets: It’s fine to have a bucket full of seawater to collect the animals you want to look at more closely but remember to release them quickly afterwards. If they spend too long in the bucket, they may overheat, run out of oxygen and die. Put some seaweed in the bucket to give them somewhere to shelter whilst you have them.

Rocks: When you turn a rock over, remember to put it back as gently as possible in the place you found it. The rock will provide shelter for many animals and it is important that you leave it as you found it.

Handling animals: Remember that the animals you pick up will be very frightened and may try to defend themselves. Excessive handling may also damage more delicate marine creatures. Be wary of spines and claws and bear in mind that the less you handle an animal, the more it is likely to act in a natural way. Use a net or bucket whenever you can.

Watch where you step: Your feet are huge to any animal on a rocky shore, so be careful not to crush or damage some of the more delicate creatures as you step on the rocks. It can be very slippery too, so watch your step.

Thank you so much for helping

3 This advice is available on Calmac Ferries travelling to the Hebrides. It appears to have been compiled by the Hebridean Ranger Committee, Calmac Ferries, Monty Halls, Adam Keltie, Ewen Thompson and Black House Creative

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APPENDIX 1: SITE INFORMATION CHECKLISTName of Greenspace: ABERDEEN BREAKWATER BEACH Grid Reference: NJ 96 5 05 7

Owner/manager above the high tide line: Aberdeen City Council Owner/manager below the high tide line: Aberdeen Harbour

Ian TalboysCountryside OfficerHousing and Environment, Environmental ServicesAberdeen City Council38 Powis TerraceKittybrewsterAberdeen AB25 3RF Direct Dial 01224 897400

Dock Control OfficersAberdeen HarbourTel: 01224 597000Email: dco@aberdeen-harbour.co.uk

Main contact: Patrick Jordan

SITE MANAGEMENTCONSIDERATION Yes/NoDo you have permission to use the beach from the owner/manager? Y

Does the owner have insurance for enabling this to happen? Y

Do you have a written agreement in place which clarifies remits and responsibilities? (Please attach and keep safe)

NA as clarified through discussions

*Have you permission to:

Establish and maintain a toilet system, if no public facilities exist nearbyLighting a controlled camp fire (Even a disposable barbecue is a fire)

Portable toilet system – leave no tracePortable fire system – leave no trace approach

Are there any “no go” areas e.g. because of safety, wildlife protection, private property, high risk of environmental impact?

No

Any specific requests re behaviour of the group or management of the woods? For example, if you wanted to plant trees, create paths, etc. would this be possible?

NA Though will encourage litter picking as part of routines

Is there any site management work needed before your nursery/school can use the site? When will this happen?

No

How robust is the site? Consider how often you will be using the site, the numbers of children and seasonality. You may need options of different areas to use in rotation.

It is sufficiently robust given the small size of the group

ACTION REQUIRED (State by whom and expected date of completion) NONE other than to maintain communications with owners and managers of site. 16/11/13

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Appendix 2: SITE APPRAISALSuitability of the Breakwater Beach for use by Maisie Munro Nursery

Date completed: 30th October 2013

When commenting, you may wish to rank each consideration from 1(dire) to 10 (brilliant). Also think about how easily changes could be made to improve an aspect.

ACCESS - In terms of access it is important that the group can enter and leave the site with relative ease. For example, if the ground is too tricky to negotiate then it may be necessary to look elsewhere.

CONSIDERATION Comment (1-10)Is the site within walking distance or will it is necessary to request that parents drop off and pick up children from the beach?

Walking distance from car park where minibus will be parked.

Look for safe parking/drop off and assembly points within or just out with the woods. Consider other access to the beach too, e.g. by walking or by bicycle. Are there any locked gates, etc.

Will need to watch for other users of car park and dumping of rubbish

Think about the network of paths – does this exist? If not, how easy is it to walk across the area, especially for pre-school children?

Access through a swing gate down big steps. Assistance for some children may be needed initially (ie hand held)

Think about the ground cover – leaves, grass, needles, heather. Or is it very boggy, or have too many “inhibitor” plants such as brambles and nettles?

Dry sand dune type ecosystem. Few, if any, inhibitor plants

Slope – ideally a mix of flat and sloped terrain. Think about its aspect (north or south facing) and when the sun reaches the slope or whether it is in shade during your session.

Steep grassy slope leading down to rocky upper shore and sandy beach. North facing beach

Boundaries – are there natural boundary features within the area you want to be, e.g. a line of trees, a hedge, path, etc?

Yes – grass bank, sea wall, the sea and the rocky outcrop.

Think about a designated place of safety in the event of a serious incident. Is this going to be your setting or another facility that is nearby?

Nearest facility is the golf course.

Is there a suitable gathering place or shelter, where equipment is put and snack is organised?

Pop up beach shelter will be used along with wind breaks.

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SITE CHARACTER - This is how the place feels. Ideally it should have a feeling of “wildness” about it. Do remember that even small places can feel wild and isolated for a young child.

VEGETATION – Remember that variety is the spice of life! Some characteristics that you might seek:

CONSIDERATION Comment (1-10)

Clear intertidal zonesSmall beach so less variety within the small area but several intertidal zones

Variety of shells, stones and beachcombing material Lots of crushed shells and barnacles.

Shade, shelter and wildlife Little shade and shelter – will need to create

Variety of ground surfaces Grassy, rock, stone, sand, rough path, concrete, seaweed

Availability of loose materials Yes

Rocks – for standing on, using as a table, mixing potions in, etc.

Plenty on west part of beach

Open canopy and cover – glades of light Very open and exposed

Variety of plants and fungi Reasonable. Mix of marine and grass bank helps

POTENTIAL HAZARDS

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CONSIDERATION Comment (1-10) Traffic noise Mainly from ships entering and

leaving the harbour Mix of ecosystems Beach, grassy bank, rockpools and

sea provide wide variety in small area

Presence of water, e.g. stream, river, loch, bog/wetland, ditches, mud

The sea and rockpools

Presence of stones, rock out crops Yes – rock outcrops, concrete slope, smooth sea wall, stones on beach

Multi-sensory variety: sights, sounds, smells, shapes, colours

Yes – lots of variety.

Dips and hollows Rock pools.

A variety of places: enclosed, open, to hide, roll, sit, have physical challenge, be quiet, a good view, etc

Concrete slope and grassy bank for challenge, good view from car park and en route down. Calm if no other visitors to the beach.

Evidence of wildlife. Opportunities to watch wildlife. Best place to watch marine life in NE Scotland

Here the trick is to think about whether these are manageable and the level of risk posed. What can be done to enable visits to go ahead? Bear in mind the risks may also be seasonal. Think about “heads, shoulders, knees and toes” when looking for hazards at different levels in the woodland canopy.

CONSIDERATION Comment (1-10) Litter – including drug paraphernalia and sharp objects Depending on tides, storms

and cleanup routines, there can be lots or little

Standing dead trees or dead wood in trees Odd bit of driftwood

Water Lots of sea and waves

Steep drops From sea wall. Grassy bank is steep but accessible. Children might enjoy off-path scrambling in places

Animal nuisance, e.g. excessive midges, livestock, dogs & dog mess, nesting birds

Dogs, dog mess and other visitors . Jellyfish occasionally.

Quantity and type of potentially harmful plants – ask owner or environmental professional for advice here, if needed

None that gives rise to concern

Security of the area – think about whether structures and children’s creations are likely to remain or be removed/destroyed. How important is this?

Beach is well used so structures unlikely to remain.

The amount and type of passers-by/other users and degree of seclusion needed – consult your ALO (Architectural Liaison Officer in the Police Force) if necessary

Secluded yet visited. Mobile phones a must.

Informal toileting options – seclusion, ability of the site to cope with waste

Need pop up tent. No toilets nearby. Leave no trace approach required.

Power lines and electricity substations No.

Timber operations and their aftermath No. More concern about sewage effluent and water quality.

Any other thought and comments:

Of all the beaches around Aberdeen, this seems the most suitable for nursery-aged children. The gentle slope, variety of surfaces, availability of loose parts, the ships and marine life all combine to make a super and suitably small site.

APPENDIX 3: V1 VISIT PLAN – ROUTINE AND EXPECTED – Aberdeen City16

ESTABLISHMENT:LEADER: NO OF PUPILS:VISIT TO: AGE RANGE

DATE: COST PER HEAD:

Level of experience of accompanying staff: (LOW 1 2 3 4 HIGH)

NAME LEVEL NAME LEVEL

Educational objective of the visit: ………………………………………………………………………………………………………..

ITEMS TO BE PLANNED

DETAILS (Highlight once you have achieved)

1 Information home / consent

Attach copy of information and annual block consent form with Aberdeen City Terms & Conditions V8 FormCollate returns and check for important information. Keep returns in a safe place where office staff can easily access in the event of an emergency.

2 Venue research Do at least one pre-visit and check its suitability using site appraisal form (Appendix 2)Contact owner/manager of site and agree permissions (Appendix 1)Assess the benefits and the risks of the venue.Create risk-benefit assessmentCarry out prep work needed with children, parents, staff

3 Staff / participant ratios

Decide ratios taking due account of policy guidance and local factorsPut out a request for volunteers if needed.Undertake Disclosure/PVN checks if needed in line with school/setting policy.

4 Travel / logistics Note the intended travel route and method(s) of transport if applicable

5 Equipment / clothing required

Have backpacks for each child or their own bag Staff to carry additional items – See equipment list (Appendix 6)Ensure equipment list is compiled and checked before and after each visit

6 Managing the activity Look at micro routines sheets to ensure independence and safe routines in placeFocus on a good balance between free play and structured activities. Allow plenty of time. Mention if class is split into smaller groups

7 Medical / health considerations

Check all child’s records for relevant health/medical information

8 Weather factors Do a check the day before and if necessary cancel the visit. Do another check on the day – Appendix 5

9 Emergency procedures

Have these in place.

10 External provider (if applicable)

NA

11 Risk assessment completed

See the attachments

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12 Other There may be site specific matters which will need addressed.

Visit approved by Head of Establishment:

YES / NO Signature Date Date for review

APPENDIX 4: V6 CONTACT INFORMATION FORM – Aberdeen City18

Full details of the visit should be retained at the establishment and with the base contact while the visit is away.

VISIT TO Date(s):Address, Times, Places.

VISIT LEADER

Tel (mobile) email

OTHER STAFF

Tel (mobile)

BASE CONTACT email

Tel (school, mobile)

ESTABLISHMENT SENIOR STAFFTel (Home, mobile)

Useful information on contact times

Council emergency contact details / corporate communications01224 633030 (day time) 01224 693350 (out of hours)

CHECK SHEET (Attach if applicable)

1. Itinerary (including contingency plans ) – This is this handbook2. V-forms (including including block annual consent forms)

3. A list of group members and their details

APPENDIX 5: DAILY SITE CHECK for BREAKWATER BEACH19

(Undertake prior to visit – weather & tides use BBC apps, tide table app)

Comments including action taken to manage risk Write comments overleaf. Remember to sign and date your observations

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Hazard Date: Checked:

Date: Checked:

Date: Checked:

Date: Checked:

Date: Checked:

Date: Checked:

Tide times & direction

Low: High: Coming in

Wind speed & direction

NW 11-15 mph

Other weather inc. temperature

2-5CCloudy

Sea conditions

Calm

Groundconditions

Cool but no ice

Structures(Check sea wall for loose objects)

Fine

Litter and mess

Some wind blow – no worries

Life BuoysY

Other issues

1 knot = 1.15mph

Inshore water 24h forecast is provided by the Met Office: http://www.metoffice.gov.uk/weather/marine/inshore_forecast.html#RattrayHeadtoBerwickuponTweed

Met Check is a free weather forecasting service: http://www.metcheck.com Tide times for Aberdeen: http://tides.mobilegeographics.com/locations/14.html Beach safety advice and videos:

http://rnli.org/safetyandeducation/stayingsafe/beach-safety/Pages/Beach-safety-advice.aspx

Rip currents (Rips)Rips are strong currents running out to sea, which can easily take swimmers from shallow water out beyond their depth. They are especially powerful in larger surf, but are also found around river mouths, estuaries and man-made structures like piers and groynes.

How to spot a rip current Discoloured, brown water (caused by sand being stirred up from the seabed) Foam on the water's surface Debris floating out to sea A rippled patch of sea, when the water around is generally calm.

How to get out of troubleIf you are caught in a rip or strong current, obey the three Rs: Relax: Stay calm and float. Do not swim against the current, swim across it. Raise: Raise an arm to signal for help. If possible, shout to shore for help. Rescue: Float and wait for assistance. Do not panic; people drown in rips because they panic. Obey

directions from the lifeguard.

If you think you are able to swim in, swim parallel to the beach until out of the effects of the rip and then make your way to shore.

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APPENDIX 6. EQUIPMENT LISTPrior to leaving for the beach, the leader should ensure the administrator at Maisie’s has details of group including the adult’s mobile phone numbers and the route travelled to and from the site.

Contact info for administrator Details of adults and children in group Emergency contact details and procedures Each adult to have fully-charged mobile phone - administrator needs list of numbers

Check the following equipment is ready:

Fully charged mobile phone for each staff member

Toilet bag plus portable toilet/potty Toilet paper in plastic bag Trowel Biological waste bags Travel potty

Sniffle station bag Tissues – does each adult have some in their

pocket? Bag for used tissues

Litter management Heavy duty bin liner bags Child-sized litter pickers Sturdy gloves for adults and children Plastic bags for small quantities of rubbish

created by the group

Children’s backpacks Snack Drink Portable seat Spare hat, gloves, etc. Towel?

Snacks and drinks Warm flask of drink Spare 1 litre of water Extra snack

Hand hygiene bag plus water container, filled with water Soap Hand wipes Hand gel Paper towels

Shelter bag Bothy bag

Miscellaneous itemsSpare clothesSleeping bag (for warmth – leave in minibus)TowelFirst aid bagSunscreenBrush – for brushing sand off clothesCameraBinocularsSmall plastic bags (for wet feet, etc.)NetsBucketSeashore ID cards Magnifying glasses

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APPENDIX 7: DAILY OFF-SITE REGISTERRemember to leave a copy at your setting and take this sheet with you.

Your setting may have its own forms for this purpose.

Name and Location of Site inc. Grid Reference: Breakwater Beach, Aberdeen NJ 96 5 05 7 Nursery Emergency Contact: Elaine Michael Phone Number: 01224 624332

Designated Group Leader & Mobile Contact: Date(s)

Child Name Medical/Dietary Information

Care Plan

Permission Forms: Consent, Sunscreen,

other….1

2

3

4

5

6

Staff/Helpers

Name P.F.AE.F.A

Medical/DietaryInformation

Disclosed/PVG

N/A

Nursery Staff

Nursery Staff

Staff/Helpers

Please attach any other relevant information.

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Appendix 8: Visit Leader’s Checklist Planning Checklist Date Date Date Date Date Date

Weather forecast checked

Daily site check completed

Agreement sought from nursery manager that the visit may go ahead

The minibus has sufficient fuel for the journey

The equipment has been checked and is ready to go

Provision for snacks and drinks has been made

Volunteers have been welcomed and briefed (which staff member is doing this?)

The children and adults are suitably clothed and prepared for the visit

Rules or expectations shared with all of the party

No unsuitable belongings are taken, e.g. balls, kites and inflatables

Whilst at the beach: Ensure everyone knows behaviour expectations and boundaries Base is established Jobs are assigned as needed. The person overseeing snack should not do the litter pick or any

picking up of faeces.

Back at nursery/school Thank volunteers and have informal conversations with parents/carers as usual about their child Any follow up paperwork completed Check equipment, dry and store until next visit. Repair or replace any equipment as needed Ensure any accidents, near misses, first aid and incidents are recorded on appropriate forms and

that relevant people are informed as required. Update risk benefit assessment.

Follow up Set aside time the following day to review session with children Integrate the experience into the wider life of the nursery – every week. Back link the experiences to the EO’s and integrate possible lines of development into the plans for

the nursery – could be indoors, outdoors or on the next Wee Green Space visit.24

APPENDIX 9: EMERGENCIES and INCIDENTS (Section 10 in Aberdeen City Outdoor Learning Policy)

10.1 Introduction

Serious accidents and incidents during council visits are extremely rare. Statistically, participants are less likely to have an accident on a visit than when in school or in their own homes. But occasionally accidents can and do happen, even on well-led and organised visits, and emergency procedures are therefore an essential part of planning for any visit.

Careful planning in this area of visits can help avoid the stress of being caught up in a serious incident. On such occasions leaders may need the support, advice and management skills of the Head of Establishment. Staff in charge of participants during a visit have a duty to keep the participants in their care safe and healthy, they also have a common law duty to act as a reasonably prudent parent would. Staff should not hesitate to act in an emergency and to take lifesaving action in an extreme situation. This section should assist in the preparation of emergency procedures for council visits over and above normal contingency planning.

10.2 Tasks for Visit / Activity Leaders In the Event of Incident / Accident

Level 1 - Misfortunes Slightly delayed return to homeMinor "accidents" requiring some attention from the group leader No medical attention required. Visit / Activity Leader:

Assesses and secures situation Secures group Attends to injured Completes accident reporting procedure on return

Level 2 - Minor Events Significantly delayed return Injuries minor but requiring medical attention on return. Group still able to extract itself and return home without outside help Visit / Activity Leader:

Assesses and secures situation Secures group Contacts Emergency Services Attends to injured Advises Base Contact Completes accident reporting procedure on return

Base Contact:

Advises parents and / or Head of Establishment

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(If Head of Establishment not contactable, Base Contact contacts Emergency Planning Officer on: office hours 01224 633030 or if no answer / out of hours 01224 620610

Summons help if required Level 3 - Serious Events Injuries significant but not life-threateningPart or all of the party requires to be "rescued". and Level 4 - Fatal or Near-Fatal Events

Visit / Activity Leader: Assesses and secures situation Secures group Contacts Emergency Services Attends to injured Advises Base Contact (if unable to make contact direct call the Emergency

Planning Officer on: office hours 01224 633030. or if no answer / out of hrs 01224 620610

Completes accident reporting procedure on return Base Contact:

Summons help if required Head of Establishment:

Advises parents and/or senior personnel (QIO / Service Manager, Community Team Leader etc)

Senior Personnel (QIO, Service Manager, Community Team Leader etc):

Advises Head of Service and Director Director and Emergency Planning Officer:

Advise Chief Executive and consider instigation of Council Emergency Management System

10.3 General Emergency Procedures Depending on the type of visit, Visit Leaders should ensure accompanying staff and participants know what to do initially if something goes wrong or they feel something could go wrong The Base Contact, who is often the Head of Establishment or another senior member of staff must have the authority to make significant decisions and should be able to respond immediately at the establishment (or from home if out of hours) to the demands of the emergency. It is not good practice for the Base Contact to be the parent of a young person on the visit.

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Base Contacts must provide 24 hour per day access by telephone. Their function is to act as a first point of contact with the group and to alert higher authorities if appropriate. Heads of Establishment and Visit Leaders should bear in mind that the contact lines may become busy in the event of an incident and that alternative numbers to ring would be useful. Many establishments have a number of designated mobile phones only for the purpose of emergency calls. A phone of this type is in the keeping of the Visit Leader and the Base Contact along with a file of relevant contact details. These phones may have important numbers pre-programmed in their address book Base Contacts would require different amounts of information depending on the type of visit and its destination. The tasks for visit / activity leader in the event of an incident / accident should be used as the basis for dealing with incidents. Visit Leaders should use this chart as a basis, but may add other agreed establishment procedures in consultation with other staff involved. Medical information pertinent to emergency hospital treatment should be obtained using a Parent / Carer Consent Form One copy of this form for each participant in the party should be carried by the Visit Leader if appropriate. 10.4 Who Will Take Charge in an Emergency?

The Visit Leader would usually take charge in an emergency and would need to ensure that emergency procedures are followed and that back-up cover in the role of Base Contact is in place.

Base Contact’s main responsibility is to link the group with the School / Centre, parents / carers and the Council, and to provide assistance as necessary.

Emergency planning officer / corporate communications teamThese services of the council need to be involved by the Visit Leader or the Base Contact for level 3 & 4 incidents to ensure the council’s emergency systems are activated.

10.5 Information and Communication

Alert your Base Contact with details of what has happened as soon as practical. Do not release names of involved or injured participants other than to official sources such as

Police, medical services Ensure relevant telephones are staffed and log all call Restrict access to telephones until your Base Contact at the establishment has been alerted with

details Control participant mobile phone use to contain information It is common for media reporting to be incomplete and/or inaccurate following an incident. To

avoid this, leaders and group members must avoid any direct dealings with the media. Media enquiries should be referred asap to ACC Media Team Manager Graham Lawther, glawther@aberdeencity.gov.uk, tel (01224) 523188, duty officer out-of-hours 07801 792825

No-one in the group should discuss legal liability with other parties, nor sign anything relating to accident liability without clear advice from the council

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10.6 Administration

The Visit Leader should make every effort to keep an ongoing record of facts relating to the incident: time, date, those involved, what happened and witness details and preserve any vital evidence. 10.7 Emergency Procedures for Base Contact

The main factors for the Base Contact to consider include:

Checking that the Visit Leader is able to manage the emergency or whether they need additional assistance e.g. from emergency services or from the establishment.

Contacting parents / carers. The Base Contact should act as a link between the group and parents / carers. Parents/carers should be kept as well informed as possible at all stages of the emergency / incident. See critical incident checklist (work in progress Dec 2013)

In the event of a serious injury or fatality, contact should be made with the Police and the emergency planning officer / corporate communication team as soon 01224 523188 or out of hrs duty officer 07801 792852

After a Serious Incident

The Visit Leader must follow the guidance in the Critical Incident recovery guidance (work in progress Dec 2013)

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