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Greek school excursion regulation controversy

Updated 4 times since CLSTR started tracking revisions of this situation.

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2026-09-03 19:02 UTC → 2026-09-07 09:56 UTC · added ~~removed~~

The Greek Ministry of Education, Religious Affairs and Sports, led by Minister Sofia Zacharaki, has introduced a new framework for school excursions for primary and secondary students. The regulations mandate a minimum of six excursions per class per school year to promote experiential learning and implement stricter safety protocols, including criminal record checks for travel agency staff and guidelines for teacher chaperones. The framework also addresses student privacy regarding mobile phone use and reduces the minimum participation rate for special schools from 70% to 50%. Opposition to the framework has intensified. The Panhellenic Scientific Association of Primary School Directors called for the immediate withdrawal of Article 22, arguing that the rules impose “disproportionate bureaucratic burdens” on public schools. Specifically, they cited requirements for posting formal calls for interest on school websites before bidding for non-overnight trips, which they claim are nearly impossible to fulfill in schools lacking administrative staff. Directors also objected to Article 13, contending that teachers lack the technical expertise to verify building licenses and safety standards at organized venues. Teacher unions, including ELME Corfu and OIELÉ, have joined the criticism, warning that the regulations impose excessive legal and disciplinary responsibilities on educators. Concerns include the need to form three-member committees, submit detailed evaluation reports, and adhere to strict approval deadlines. OIELÉ further warned that the rules could increase financial burdens on families and widen educational inequalities. The unions are calling for a specialized dialogue to reform the framework, suggesting that multi-day trips be made optional and that teachers be compensated for work performed outside teaching hours. In response to the ongoing dispute, MP Spyridon Tsironis has formally submitted the concerns of the Panhellenic Scientific Association of Primary Education School Directors to the Minister of Education.

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