Year 11 GCSE Geography students recently completed two days of fieldwork along the Fylde Coast, investigating the effectiveness of coastal defences in Fleetwood and exploring the impact of tourism on environmental quality in Blackpool. Despite challenging winds and sand-filled conditions, students demonstrated excellent resilience, enthusiasm and teamwork throughout, gaining valuable first-hand experience to support their GCSE studies and future success.
Year 11 GCSE Geography students recently swapped the classroom for the coastline as they embarked on a two day's of fieldwork investigation along the Fylde Coast.
In Fleetwood, students put hard engineering techniques to the test by measuring groyne drop heights to assess how effective these coastal defences are at preventing longshore drift. Armed with tape measures, booklets and determination, they gathered valuable data that will help bring their GCSE studies to life.
The investigation then moved to Blackpool, where students assessed how tourism impacts environmental quality. From bustling tourist hotspots to quieter areas, they carefully evaluated both the benefits and challenges that tourism brings to the seaside resort.
Although we managed to dodge the showers, the Fylde Coast had another challenge in store. High winds left staff and students feeling thoroughly sandblasted at times! Despite the conditions, students remained enthusiastic, resilient and focused throughout the trip.
Most importantly, every student was a credit to the Academy, demonstrating our TEAM values at all times. Their positive attitude, excellent behaviour and commitment to learning made the visit a great success.
The experience provided invaluable first-hand fieldwork practice that will stand students in good stead for the summer examination series and for future successes beyond the Academy. After all, the best geography lessons are often the ones that come with a little sea spray and a lot of sand!