Away We Go Tours: Five tips on educational rebates to help your school save on excursion costs

School excursions are a vital part of a well-rounded education, providing students with real-world experiences that enhance classroom learning. However, the cost can sometimes be a barrier for schools and families. Fortunately, various educational rebates and funding opportunities can help reduce expenses. Here’s how your school can take advantage of these resources to make excursions more accessible and affordable.

1. Research Available Rebates and Grants

Educational rebates and grants vary by state, territory, and country, so it’s essential to research what’s available. Some common sources include:

• Government education departments

• Local councils

• Industry-sponsored programs

• Cultural and heritage organizations

• Tourism boards offering subsidies for school visits

One of the most well-known rebates on offer is PACER (Parliament and Civics Education Rebate Program), an Australian Government initiative that provides financial assistance to support student learning at national democratic, historical, and cultural institutions in Canberra. PACER-approved institutions offer educational programs that align with the Australian Curriculum.

As an example, if you are a remote Northern Territory based school you could benefit from a rebate of up to $1275 per student to visit Canberra.

PACER rebates are available to all eligible Australian schools, including homeschools. The rebate amount depends on the school’s distance from Canberra and is allocated per student. To learn more, visit pacer.org.au, or contact one of our consultants. We work closely with schools to ensure eligible attractions and programs are included in your itinerary so you can maximise your rebate and savings.

2. Apply Early

Many funding programs operate on a first-come, first-served basis or have strict deadlines. To improve your chances of securing financial support, submit applications well in advance. Keeping a calendar of rebate application deadlines can help you stay organised and ensure timely submissions.

3. Align Excursions with Curriculum Requirements

Funding bodies are more likely to approve applications if the excursion has a clear educational purpose. Ensure your trip aligns with curriculum goals such as STEM education, history, or cultural studies. When applying for financial support, clearly outline the learning outcomes and how the excursion enhances student understanding of the subject matter.

4. Utilise Group Discounts and Package Deals

Specialised school travel agencies like Away We Go Tours offer all-inclusive packages, special deals during off-peak months, and complimentary teacher spots to help minimise costs to students. Partnering with an experienced school travel agency like AWGT gives your school access to exclusive discounts and ensures the best value for your excursion budget.

5. Encourage Parental and Community Support

Many schools successfully subsidise excursion costs through parent-teacher associations, local business sponsorships, and fundraising initiatives. Hosting community events and engaging local businesses can help supplement rebate funding and further reduce costs for families.

Plan a Cost-Effective Excursion with AWGT

With strategic planning and effective use of available rebates, your school can significantly reduce excursion costs while ensuring students benefit from enriching learning experiences outside the classroom. Away We Go Tours tailors each itinerary to fit your school’s budget, educational needs, and goals. We don’t offer generic itineraries instead, we design intentional, meaningful experiences that support both students and teachers.

For more information on planning an affordable and educational school excursion, contact AWGT today!

02 6456 4033

1300 138 812

admin@awgt.com.au

awgt.com.au