ºìÐÓÊÓƵ

Pupils in the Upper School complete a series of independent Geography projects throughout the two-year syllabus, requiring them to collect data, analyse their findings, and demonstrate initiative in their chosen topic. A residential field trip brings their studies to life, and what better place to gather that data than the dramatic landscapes of Exmoor National Park.

Year 7 headed to this much-loved outdoor classroom for their annual three-day residential, and they wasted no time getting stuck in — literally. Armed with flowmeters to measure water velocity and clinometers to record the river's gradient, pupils waded into the River Lyn at various points along its length, measuring depth, width and taking samples of the bed load as they went. There was plenty of laughter too, particularly when river water crept over the tops of their wellies and the real challenge became pulling them back off!

Back on dry land, the adventure continued with moorland walking, a taste of caving, and an impressive eight-mile hike along the River Lyn to Lynmouth. Woolacombe Beach offered a well-earned breather before pupils took on the exhilarating challenge of coasteering along the stunning North Devon coastline towards Ilfracombe.

Beyond the data and the readings, the trip delivered something just as valuable: growing confidence, resilience, and the kind of teamwork that only comes from sharing cold wellies and cliff edges together. These residential experiences remain a highlight of the school year, enriching learning and friendships in equal measure.