Year 11 in Barcelona
During half term, 29 students and 3 staff took part in the annual Geography fieldtrip to Barcelona. Despite a very early start and arriving in pouring rain, the excitement of being in Spain lifted the students’ spirits. We were able to explore some of the city, see the World famous Sagrada Familia and try some of the local foods for lunch. By the following day, the rain had cleared and the sun appeared. Students took part in the first of their fieldwork days, travelling to the Garrotxa Volcanic Zone Natural Park where we visited an interactive museum to learn about the area before exploring. Our expert guides were on hand to explain the geology of the area and how the volcanoes were monogenetic (only a single eruption). As a result, some of the volcanoes were mined and this meant we were able to walk inside one.
The following day, the students returned to the Garroxta Natural Park for their river study. We started near the source of the river, high in the mountains before travelling to the middle course and finally ending the day at the mouth of the river – the beach! Great fun was had as students took measurements and completed field sketches. Due to the recent rainfall, the river was flowing well and this meant that students were able to collect lots of data. It is always fantastic to students experiencing first-hand what they have learnt about in the classroom. Some time was used in the evenings to consolidate what had been learnt each day and fieldwork booklets completed although the students still had plenty of time to relax.
We woke on our last day to sunshine and blue skies. After a morning of shopping in the city centre, visiting Las Ramblas and the indoor market, we headed to Park Guell, the Gaudi-inspired park where wonderful views over the city can be seen. The quirky and unusual architecture, together with the terraced gardens, makes it a fascinating place to visit. Throughout the trip, the students were exemplary in their attitude and a delight to be with. The guides at the Natural Park also commented on how attentive and friendly they all were!
Mr Costard
Deputy Head Geography
