What should I ask when a voluntary school trip seems to supply the material for a graded assignment?
EducationThe trip letter says "optional." The assignment sheet says to describe what we observed at the riverside centre.
The quoted coach and entry cost is £55. I can cover it, but only by moving money from another bill this month. My daughter wants to go with her friends. When I asked about staying at school, she said, "Everyone will have things to write about except me."
The teacher mentioned that a dataset would be available for children who don't attend, but I haven't seen the alternative task. I don't want to assume she has overlooked those children. I also don't want to pay in a panic because the assignment feels more compulsory than the trip letter.
What would be reasonable to ask about the assessment and any available help with the cost? I'd prefer to have the money conversation privately; my daughter is already worrying that her classmates will know why she might stay behind.