Year 13 Geography students travelled to Arran in Scotland to collect data for their independent investigations, as part of the A level study. After a long journey, the students were happy to be welcomed to the Kinloch Hotel before the hard work of collecting the all-important data began.
Students investigated plastic pollution on Arran’s beaches, how the island has been shaped by glaciation and evidence of tectonic activity.
Students also had the opportunity to interview the local business improvement group ‘Visit Arran’ on the role of tourism to the island’s economy and the issues this brings. Students completed a river study and measured footpath erosion along the spectacular Glen Rosa as we were greeted by a herd of Highland cows!
Day two saw a trip to the Lochranza Distillery to investigate the changing nature of their business and how geography influenced the location for the distillery. Students also attempted to find a precious ruby along Glen Sannox as they explored how the area was changed by volcanic activity.
The final day saw students walk to the birth place of geology, Hutton’s Unconformity, where both Mr Smith and Mrs Albiston were very excited by rocks!
As the heavens opened, we made soap and candles at the indulgent ‘Arran Aromatics’ and wound down after a fantastic couple of days away, before heading home!