Last year we re-launched our all-inclusive Whitby Discovery Package - delivered in partnership with the excellent YHA Whitby team. This 2 night / 3 day all-inclusive Discovery package is now the most popular school trip package that we offer - with dozens of schools booking this exciting programme of discovery and learning activities.

What's included? - return coach travel, accommodation, meals and a great range of Discovery activities (check the "Our Brochures" section for more details).

Our Whitby programme has proven so popular that we are now fully booked for Spring and Summer 2024 and are now filling the low-season period Nov 2024 - March 2025. If you are looking to join the band of schools looking for a Whitby experience then make contact now - spaces are being filled in 2025 and we are starting to see bookings for 2026 too!

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Check out the Whitby Discovery brochure here&nbsp;&nbsp;<a href="https://admin.firsttravelsolutions.com/sites/default/files/public/2024-01/FEST%20Whitby%20Brochure%20Jan%202024%20version.pdf">Whitby Brochure 24.25 (firsttravelsolutions.com)</a>

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Whitby Discovery Packages - Nov 2024 - March 2025 

Fest News

If you are a supplier of FTS, you will no doubt be aware of PSVAR.&nbsp; But if you need a refresher, here’s our handy guide.

When providing vehicles for FTS rail replacement services, operators have a responsibility to provide a PSVAR-compliant vehicle.

• As part of the drivers' first user check, they should ensure that the lifting equipment is in good working order and that the securing straps are on the vehicle.

• Drivers need to be fully trained and competent in the use of the lifting equipment and the use of the securing system relevant to the type of vehicle; this training must also be documented.

• If you use casual, part-time, or agency staff, these staff will require the same PSVAR training as your regular staff.

If you are supplying a standard coach, you will need a Mid Term Exemption Certificate (MTE) and a copy of the certificate must be carried on the vehicle/with the driver when operating on rail replacement services.&nbsp; If the DVSA does a spot check, you could be liable for a fine.

Remember that an MTE certificate only covers standard coaches (not wheelchair compliant) so if a PSVAR vehicle turns up for duty with defective lifting equipment then an MTE certificate will not cover this and will be classed as a PSVAR failure and will be taken off duty.

If you have any questions or queries, then please do contact us and we’ll be happy to assist.

Supplier Compliance

Article

First Travel Solutions, a leading name in transport services, proudly announces their recent recognition as the recipient of the highly acclaimed Best Transport Provider award along with the Silver Runners up award for Sustainable Travel, at the BETA British Youth Travel Awards in November.

The annual BETA British Youth Travel Awards celebrate excellence and innovation in the youth, student, and educational travel sector. This esteemed accolade acknowledges First Travel Solutions' unwavering commitment to providing exceptional transport services to the educational travel industry.

"We are absolutely delighted to have won the Best Transport Provider award," expressed Richard Kirk, Commercial Director at First Travel Solutions. "We truly value our links to the educational travel sector and remain committed to further improvements. With new technologies now becoming available, our managed transport services are more popular than ever, and we are grateful to the industry for the trust and business they place with us."

First Travel Solutions has consistently demonstrated its dedication to enhancing the travel experience by leveraging cutting-edge technologies and a customer-centric approach. Their commitment to excellence and continuous improvement has garnered widespread recognition within the industry.

"This award is a testament to our entire team's hard work and dedication," added Richard Kirk, Commercial Director "We are honoured to be acknowledged for our contributions to the sector and are excited about the future as we continue to innovate and elevate the standards of transport services for educational travel."

The Best Transport Provider award reaffirms First Travel Solutions' position as a trailblazer in the transportation sector, reinforcing its pledge to deliver top-notch services while embracing technological advancements.

Whitby Discovery Packages - Nov 2024 - March 2025

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