The School Travel Forum (STF) and ABTA have praised the Port of Dover for launching a quicker border processing trial aimed at school groups. Under this initiative, schools can submit passenger details to ferry operators like P&O Ferries and Irish Ferries up to 72 hours before departure, allowing for swifter border control checks when traveling to France.

P&O Ferries began implementing this process on April 3 and Irish Ferries followed suit the next day. This innovation is meant to simplify administrative tasks for schools organizing educational outings, improving the overall travel experience.

“This scheme underscores a commitment to facilitate educational travel while diminishing administrative hurdles for school parties,” stated Gill Harvey, Chief Executive of School Travel Forum. She added that they have engaged with government authorities and the Port of Dover to devise practical solutions for smooth transitions for schools on the route from Dover to Calais.

Luke Petherbridge, Director of Public Affairs at ABTA, noted that this initiative reflects ongoing efforts to find solutions to issues faced by school trips following the UK’s exit from the EU, and they encourage all stakeholders to support the scheme’s success.

To take part, schools need to verify their educational status to ferry operators and provide passenger information in advance, facilitating pre-screening to expedite the boarding process. Additionally, pupils on student trips will benefit from visa-free travel to France without needing an EU visa.

For more details, make sure to consult your ferry operator prior to your journey.