Y9/10 trip to Iceland โ 26-30 June
Year 9 and Year 10 GCSE Geography students enjoyed an unforgettable five-day field trip to Iceland, bringing their classroom learning to life through first-hand experiences of some of the world’s most dramatic physical landscapes.
During the visit, students explored the Bridge Between Continents, standing between the North American and Eurasian tectonic plates, before witnessing the bubbling mud pools and steaming vents of Gunnuhver and Seltรบn Hot Springs. Despite the characteristically windy conditions of Iceland’s south-west coast, students embraced the elements as they investigated the country’s unique volcanic and geothermal landscapes. The group was also treated to a special wildlife encounter when a puffin emerged from its burrow just two metres away, giving students an unforgettable close-up view of one of Iceland’s most iconic birds. The group also explored Reykjavรญk and enjoyed the spectacular Icelandic Lava Show, watching molten lava flow before their eyes.
The group then travelled along Iceland’s stunning south coast, visiting the impressive Skรณgafoss and Seljalandsfoss waterfalls. Braving the mist and spray at Skรณgafoss, students experienced the raw power of Iceland’s glacial meltwater up close as millions of litres of water thundered over the cliff edge. At the famous black sands of Reynisfjara Beach, students observed dramatic coastal processes, while nearby Dyrhรณlaey offered breathtaking views of sea stacks, natural arches and the vast North Atlantic Ocean.
One of the highlights of the trip was a guided glacier walk at Sรณlheimajรถkull, where students donned crampons and ventured onto the ice itself. Exploring crevasses, ice formations and meltwater channels provided a memorable insight into glacial processes and the ever-changing nature of Iceland’s landscape.
The final full day followed Iceland’s famous Golden Circle route. Students visited Keriรฐ Crater, marvelled at the eruptions of Strokkur Geyser and admired the power of Gullfoss Waterfall. A particular favourite was the Secret Lagoon, where students enjoyed a relaxing soak in the warm geothermal waters while surrounded by rising steam and bubbling hot springs.
The trip concluded at รingvellir National Park, where the weather provided a fitting finale. As the sun emerged from behind the clouds, students explored the spectacular fissures and rift valley created by the slow movement of tectonic plates, bringing classroom learning about plate tectonics vividly to life.
The Iceland expedition provided an outstanding opportunity for students to deepen their understanding of volcanoes, glaciers, rivers, coasts and geothermal energy. Most importantly, it created lasting memories, strengthened friendships and demonstrated how exciting geography can be when experienced beyond the classroom.
Mrs Chidgey
