Safety on the Pitch: How We Vet International Football Facilities for School Groups

A Structured Approach to Safety

Our process begins with a detailed Sport Venue Checklist (SVC). This is designed to assess the health and safety standards of each facility we work with internationally. From pitch conditions and changing facilities to emergency procedures and first aid availability, the checklist ensures that venues meet the expectations required for school groups.

Alongside this, we use a Fixture Confirmation Sheet, which brings together key operational and safety information. This document includes local team details, logistics, and essential health and safety elements, allowing our Operations team to confirm that every fixture is appropriate, organised, and secure. In many cases, this streamlined document now incorporates elements of the SVC, making the process even more efficient without compromising on safety.

Matching Teams for Fair and Safe Play

Safety on the pitch isn’t just about facilities, it’s also about who your students are playing against.

That’s where our Sports Team Checklist comes in. Before departure, schools provide detailed information about their team, including:

• Squad size
• Player ages
• Ability levels

This allows us to carefully match fixtures that are both competitive and safe. International differences in age-group structures can sometimes create confusion. For example, a UK “Under 15” team typically includes 14- and 15-year-olds, whereas in some countries, “Under 15” may include significantly younger players.

By verifying and aligning this information, we reduce the risk of mismatched fixtures, ensuring players compete against teams of a similar age and physical development. Matching ability levels also helps prevent overly one-sided games, which can lead to frustration or increased injury risk.

Learning from Every Fixture

Our commitment to safety doesn’t stop once the final whistle blows.

We actively track and review feedback from every fixture through internal monitoring systems. Post-match questionnaires allow us to gather valuable insights from group leaders, which are then used to rate teams and venues.

This data helps us to:

• Identify consistently high-performing facilities and opponents
• Flag any concerns or negative experiences
• Make informed decisions for future tours

Over time, we build a clear picture of which destinations, venues, and teams provide the best and safest experiences for our groups. Trends are analysed across sports, countries, and seasons ensuring we continuously improve the quality and safety of our tours.

Continuous Improvement, Every Tour

No two tours are the same, but our commitment to safety remains constant. By combining detailed pre-tour checks, thoughtful fixture planning, and ongoing performance tracking, we create football experiences that are not only memorable but also secure and well-managed.

For schools travelling abroad, that means peace of mind. For students, it means the freedom to focus on what really matters: enjoying the game, building confidence, and creating unforgettable memories on and off the pitch.