21 May 2024
Zinnia B, Year 10
Year 10 geographers were lucky enough to undertake our GCSE fieldwork trip in and around Swanage, Dorset during a weekend of glorious May weather.
Our first activity on the south coast was to kayak along the shore. This was a new experience for many of us (and went extremely well from my perspective, as I didn’t fall into the freezing sea). We learnt about the local plants and marine life with our instructors and even sampled some seaweed. After a quick change, we went to a beach further along the coast, where we studied the sand dunes, as well as finding shells to take home as souvenirs. Once we had completed our fieldwork for the day, we headed to our hostel, which overlooked the sea, and enjoyed a relaxed supper.
The following day, our fieldwork involved measuring the width, velocity, depth and bedload of rivers. At first this was difficult to achieve as most of us got splashed and fell in the river as it picked up speed downstream. But, with perseverance, we all got a handle on it and were able to collect the comparative data we needed. In the afternoon we explored Swanage in small groups and spent some time playing sport, including volleyball, on the long, sandy beach. Our day ended with a memorable sunset walk along the shoreline and a game of football with friends as the tide came in.
On our final morning, we headed to the iconic Durdle Door, a famous eroded cliff on the Jurassic Coast, which is known for its clear waters and long pebbly beach. The climb to get there was exhausting but absolutely worth it as the views were breathtaking. After hiking back down to the beach, we enjoyed a picnic followed by ice cream before beginning our journey back to Woldingham.
I would happily say this geography trip was one of the best school trips I have experienced as I learned to face a few of my fears and got to try things I would usually be too nervous to do, such as kayaking and wading through deep rivers. Having lovely weather only made the experience even more enjoyable. If I had the chance, I would certainly do it again.
