The Rayburn Way: Celebrating Our Culture, Our People, and Our Future

Recognising what makes us successful

The afternoon began by looking back at what RTG has achieved and recognising the contribution people across the business make to our success. Our progress is something to be proud of, with the figures reflecting the dedication and expertise that go into delivering for our customers.

We were named Best School Tour Operator (Large) at the School Travel Awards 2025, whilst our tour coordinators have achieved an average customer rating of 4.87 out of 5. Even more impressively, 98% of respondents said they would recommend us.

These results tell an important story, but they also represent the people behind them. Every team plays a part in creating positive customer experiences, solving problems and helping RTG move forward.

Putting our culture into words

When colleagues were asked, “What words describe RTG when we’re at our best?”, the responses included teamwork, friendly, supportive, passionate and professional. These are more than just words; they reflect the behaviours and attitudes that shape our working environment and influence the experiences we create for our customers.

As Jamie Boyden, Joint Managing Director at Rayburn Tours, explained, the launch of The Rayburn Way is about recognising an established culture and giving it a shared foundation for the future.

When teamwork makes the difference

One of the clearest examples of RTG’s culture in action came from a challenging situation when Play Air ceased trading just six weeks before half term, putting 13 tours at risk.

With schools relying on us to find a way forward, five teams worked together to explore alternatives, assess the impact and guide schools through the next steps. Their combined efforts meant that 11 of the 13 tours were re-protected, monies were recovered and profitability was largely maintained.

Just as importantly, the response helped schools navigate an uncertain situation and protect valuable experiences for their students. Mercia Academy shared its appreciation in a message to the team:

Crafting the future, together

With a clear picture of what makes RTG successful today, attention turned to how we can continue to strengthen our culture as the business grows. Colleagues explored our four cultural values: Customer First, One Team, Open and Honest, and Always Improving.

Directors invited everyone to consider which two values offered the greatest opportunity for improvement, as well as share real examples of where RTG already demonstrates each value. The discussions encouraged colleagues to reflect on their own experiences, identify opportunities to do things differently and think about how our values can translate into meaningful everyday actions.

A little friendly competition along the way

Of course, the afternoon wasn’t all discussion and reflection! The RTG quiz brought teams together for some friendly competition, giving colleagues the chance to put their heads together, share their knowledge and enjoy a different kind of challenge. The raffle added another moment of excitement, before everyone rounded off the afternoon with drinks and a chance to catch up.

These moments are an important part of building connections across the business. Getting to know colleagues beyond our immediate teams helps strengthen relationships, encourages collaboration and reminds us that we’re all working towards the same goals.