TCBC are winners! Best School Tour Operator 2025

The TCBC Team accepting the award from Rory Bremner

We’re absolutely thrilled to share some exciting news, TCBC School Tours has won the School Travel Award for Best School Tour Operator (in the small/medium category).

After 3 years of being Finalists, and working hard to keep improving, hearing our name called on Friday at the Royal Lancaster Hotel in London was a moment we’ll never forget. What makes this award so special is that the votes came directly from our fantastic customers, the teachers and school staff who work with us. Knowing that our work has made a positive impact on your trips, and that you took the time to vote, really means the world to us.

TCBC Directors, Ben and Dan Hornby

A Night to Remember

This year’s ceremony, organised by School Travel Organiser, was hosted by the brilliant Rory Bremner and brought together leading providers, attractions and schools to celebrate excellence in educational travel. Guests were also treated to a fantastic performance from members of the West End cast of Mamma Mia! - a definite highlight of the afternoon!

The Winners!

Some members of our team were there to proudly accept the award, and we were also delighted to sponsor the Best Venue for English Learning category, which this year was awarded to Shakespeare’s Globe. It felt wonderful to celebrate alongside so many talented operators, attractions and providers who share the same passion as we do: making educational travel meaningful, safe, and unforgettable for young people.

The TCBC Team

Why This Award Matters to Us

Winning this award is more than a trophy, it’s recognition of the dedication, care and heart that our team puts into every single tour. From planning and safety to educational value and on-the-ground support, our staff work incredibly hard to make sure every trip runs smoothly and inspires students long after they return home.

We also know we were up against some truly outstanding companies - all of whom we respect greatly. To be recognised among such strong competition is an honour in itself.

Thank You to Everyone Who Made This Possible

Most importantly, thank you to the teachers and school staff who voted for us and continue to trust us with their school trips. You are at the centre of everything we do. Your feedback, your passion for giving your students new experiences, and your loyalty over the years have shaped the company we are today.

A huge thank you also goes to our fantastic team - your work, commitment and enthusiasm made this achievement possible.

And finally, congratulations to all the nominees and winners across every category. Together, we’re raising the bar for what school travel can be.

Teacher Ted

We were also delighted to receive our very own “Teacher Ted” as part of the award, a small but very charming new member of the TCBC team. Teacher Ted will soon be joining our school groups on their travels, popping up in photos as he explores the world with us. Welcome to the team, Teacher Ted - we can’t wait to see where your adventures take you!

Zoi, Hollie and Natalia welcoming Teacher Ted to the TCBC Team

Looking Ahead

This award is an exciting milestone for us as we celebrate 20 years of TCBC, but it’s also motivation to keep doing better: to deliver even more enriching tours, support more teachers, and create more life-changing experiences for students.

If you're planning your next school trip and want to work with an award-winning operator that truly puts schools first - we’d love to help.