Trips

Biology Succession Field Trip

The annual Lower Sixth field trip to Kenfig Nature Reserve in South Wales took place on 13th June, a gloriously sunny day. Following a long trek down to the beach, pupils conducted a transect of the embryo sand dunes to monitor the process of succession using quadrats and calculating percentage cover of various plant species. Topography of the landscape was also measured using ranging poles and a clinometer. Various skills were honed, such as collaborative teamwork, collecting reliable and valid data, and learning how to calculate the height change of the dunes using mathematics. Soil sample analysis such as pH and organic content were conducted back at school. The Year 12s were engaged and remained positive and productive throughout the day. Lilia Wolff’s beautiful winning shot in the wild orchid photo competition really encapsulated the trip: the sea, sand, embryo dune, marram grass, sea holly, transect, quadrat and, of course, a pyramidal orchid. Close runners-up were Kei Ki Chau and Charlotte Leith.

Biology Reaction Time Study

On 25th January, the Upper Sixth biologists participated in a reaction time study run by two final year students from the University of Bristol Ambassador Scheme. Pupils were asked to investigate the effect of exercise on reflex action (sight/sound) in the biomedical physiology labs at the university. Baseline responses were recorded followed by a 10-minute keep fit exercise video and repeat measuring. In summary, brain derived neurotrophic factor and synapsin 1 increase with exercise, which stimulates spinal reflex excitability. The biologists also experienced a £40,000 life-like manikin that could be programmed to demonstrate different physiological processes in the body. An overdose of opiates was selected, with pupils analysing the effects from ECG, breathing rate and oxygen saturation level traces along with pupil constriction. Pulse rates could also be felt, with some lucky pupils attempting bag mask valve oxygen resuscitation.

Mal Grohmann

Geography Field Trips

The Geography Department was back in full swing, taking students out into the field. It is so important that students experience real life places to broaden their understanding of the world in which they live. Yes, field work also ticks exam criteria boxes, but it offers so much more in terms of helping to enrich students’ cultural, social and environmental knowledge.

Eden Project, Cornwall

A long day, but one of the more memorable trips for Year 9. The pupils learnt about sustainability and the use of our natural world. The biomes are amazing and it is staggering that Eden was a china clay mine just over 20 years ago!

River Holford

A classic adventure in the Quantock Hills for the Year 10 geographers to discover how the characteristics of a river change downstream. The weather held, data was collected and, grudgingly, an unnamed student volunteered, “I enjoyed that, Sir; I thought it was going to be boring”. Praise indeed.

Urban Bristol

Despite the fact that many of our pupils live in Bristol, most will admit that they have a narrow view of our city. A tour of Bristol from the outskirts at Cribbs and Filton back into the city centre and Harbourside certainly reveals the diversity of Bristol. Year 11 students used secondary data, such as Zoopla property prices and first-hand primary data at various places to discover place identity and characteristics.

Urban Bristol and Water/Carbon Day at Belmont Estate

In preparation for the A Level coursework project (non-examined assessment) both urban and physical environments were studied and data collection techniques were covered so that students could then apply them when doing their own projects. It was not all about work though; at the Belmont Estate, we benefited from a mindfulness session. The Year 12s also enjoyed the ‘safari walk’ wild food foraging, helping them to connect to nature. Food was a highlight; a barbecue with produce from the estate was both delicious and emphasised the importance of ethical and environmental stewardship.

Jonathan Hughes