Our Year 12 and Year 13 Biology students enjoyed an action-packed field trip to Cranedale on a crisp winter day this February, taking full advantage of the beautiful weather to conduct scientific investigations that support their classroom work.
Swapping the classroom for the great outdoors on an exciting two-day field trip to Cranedale, we were blessed with glorious weather as the students explored a range of ecosystems, conducted essential experiments, and fully immersed themselves in hands-on scientific discovery.
The adventure began in Bridlington, where students analysed soil moisture, pH levels, and species diversity, deepening their understanding of coastal ecology. Back in the lab, they turned their focus to the microscopic world, carefully sketching Mayfly Nymphs under the microscope - Aya’s intricate drawing was a standout.
From there, they travelled to Kirby Grindalythe and Settrington to investigate water quality, testing nitrate levels, pH, conductivity, and turbidity.
Kick sampling provided further insight into biodiversity, a crucial element of their A-Level studies. But the real excitement came at Settrington Beck, where students discovered an abundance of crayfish. With an old crayfish farm nearby, invasive red crayfish thrive in the area, offering a fascinating, if unexpected, case study.
Eager to get involved, students waded straight into the stream, nets in hand. Poppy and Ruby barely paused before plunging in, leading the charge in the search for crayfish. Their enthusiasm was infectious, and soon everyone was knee-deep in discovery.
From fieldwork to laboratory analysis, the trip was a perfect blend of adventure and scientific enquiry, reinforcing key concepts in a real-world setting.
As always, huge thanks to the staff in the Science department for facilitating and accompanying this valuable excursion. It was a brilliant experience for our students and we hope you thoroughly enjoyed it too!
Take a look at our gallery to see the students in action!