In the last few weeks, the Geography department has taken the Year 10 students out of the classroom to carry out fieldwork. It has been a busy but hugely rewarding time. 

Students first travelled to Epping Forest Field Studies Centre to complete the physical fieldwork element of Paper 3 of their AQA GCSE Geography course. Fieldwork (both familiar and unfamiliar) makes up 15% of the final GCSE grade, so this was an important opportunity for students to put their geographical skills into practice.

The focus of the day was to investigate three sites along Debden Brook and test the hypothesis that, in line with the Bradshaw Model, river discharge increases with distance downstream. After establishing the aim of their enquiry, discussing their sampling strategy, and completing a thorough risk assessment (which proved to be far more than a paperwork exercise once everyone was in the river!), students donned their wellies and began collecting primary data on the river's depth, width and velocity.

The following day, students travelled via the DLR to Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park and East Village, Stratford, where the Field Studies Council London led a second fieldwork investigation, this time focusing on the human geography topic of sustainable urban regeneration and development. After learning about the history of the area, developing hypotheses regarding its economic, social and environmental sustainability, and conducting a risk assessment centred on staying safe in the high temperatures, the students set off on their enquiry. Led by their expert instructor and armed with sunglasses, fans and plenty of water, they explored East Village using a range of fieldwork techniques to assess the area's sustainability against the Egan Wheel model.

As they made their way through East Village, students completed a land use map and service tally, paused at three locations to carry out Environmental Quality Surveys, and even braved the slightly daunting—but ultimately enjoyable—task of interviewing local residents about their views on the area's sustainability.

Back in the classroom after both fieldwork days, students analysed their findings, considered the strengths and limitations of their data collection methods, selected appropriate techniques to present their results, and evaluated the extent to which their evidence supported their hypotheses.

The two days provided an excellent opportunity for students to develop the practical, analytical and evaluative skills needed for their GCSE Geography examination, while experiencing first-hand the value of geographical fieldwork. They represented the school exceptionally well throughout. Please enjoy the photos showcasing some of the highlights!

Miss Ashman & the Geography Department

Click on the link here to view the Year 10 Epping Forest & Olympic Park Trip photo gallery.