Fieldwork Adventures for Year 12 Geographers

Exploring Geography Beyond the Classroom

This past half term has been an exciting and enriching period for our Year 12 geographers. As part of their curriculum, they embarked on a series of fieldwork trips designed to develop their analytical skills and prepare them for their upcoming non-examined assessment (NEA). These trips offered hands-on experience and insight into a diverse range of geographical studies, bringing theory to life.

The students undertook five fascinating investigations, each addressing unique geographical concepts and challenges:

• Discharge Dynamics: Exploring the Beverley Brook’s discharge changes downstream, they analysed how this impacts the stream's flood hydrograph.
• Carbon Comparisons: A comparative study of carbon stores between Richmond Park and Wimbledon Common highlighted the importance of green spaces in urban environments.
• Coastal Contrasts: By examining coastal landscapes and management strategies at West Wittering and Worthing, students observed variations in human and natural interactions along the coastline.
• Clone Town Debate: Venturing into Dorking, students investigated whether the town could be classified as a ‘clone town,’ assessing its retail diversity and local character.
• Urban Regeneration: In Spitalfields, the focus was on the effects of urban regeneration and the resultant gentrification, offering a real-world analysis of urban change.

These fieldwork trips not only deepened the students' understanding of geographical processes but also honed their research and analytical abilities. Whether examining the hydrological impacts of a stream or assessing urban development, these experiences have equipped them with practical skills essential for their NEA.

The department is proud of the effort and enthusiasm shown by the students throughout these excursions. Their curiosity and commitment to exploring geography beyond the classroom make them true budding geographers.

We look forward to seeing how these investigations shape their assessments and inspire their future studies. Great work, Year 12 geographers! Ms Harrington