Year 8 pupils put their geography skills to the test
Year 8 pupils and members of staff arrived at Cuckmere Haven on a slightly overcast, but nevertheless warm day, as they were sorted into two groups before setting off for a day of geography-related activities.
The first group walked to the top of a nearby hill, stopping on the way to sketch the view down to the sea, taking in the amazing landscape. Mr Williams was able to point out some different birds (clearly a bit of a twitcher) and tell pupils how the area has been sustainably managed. When they arrived at the top, everyone had to map the landscape (meanders, flood plains, scarp slopes, vegetation etc) using the OS skills they had learnt in class. They spotted more birds, plus sheep and saltmarsh cows, as Mr Williams talked about the land uses and history of the area.
Meanwhile, the second group walked down to the coast where Miss Thompson taught pupils about wave cut platforms, different types of erosion, sea defences and longshore drift. Mrs Gordon-Stewart thought it would be a good idea to throw an apple into the sea to enable the pupils to witness the drift for themselves (something that had been done previously to good effect), unfortunately the northerly wind and calm sea meant that it did not move very much, but it was definitely drifting!
The two groups converged at a large camping barn where they enjoyed their lunch, surrounded by sunshine. The groups then swapped locations/activities in the afternoon, and all-too-soon, it was time to return to the car park for the journey back – although not before ice-creams were enjoyed by all!
“The pupils behaved very well and enjoyed the opportunity to study the geography of one of our best nearby locations,” Tom Williams, Head of Geography Years 3-8.