On Tuesday, 23 February and Wednesday, 24 February, our Geography Department took sixty Year 8 students on an educational excursion to the Sustainability Centre in Clanfield. This hands-on learning experience was designed to complement their studies on forest management and sustainable living, providing firsthand experience and inspiration for their upcoming project on designing sustainable homes. During the trip, students were immersed in the practical applications of the three 'Rs (Reduce, Reuse, and Recycle)' of sustainability. They explored innovative ways these principles can be integrated into building designs, as exemplified by a rustic yurt on site. This unique structure featured a log burner, recycled materials, and even a window made from a tumble dryer door! The students engaged in several interactive activities, including building a sandbag arch bridge, constructing a chalk wall, creating clay bricks, and assembling a clay pizza oven. These activities not only reinforced their classroom learning but also sparked creativity and teamwork. Mrs Whitelock, Head of Geography, praised the students: "They were a pleasure to spend time with and were a credit to the school - they thoroughly enjoyed themselves, despite getting very muddy!"

Student Reflections The students shared their excitement and newfound knowledge:

Ellie Chalk (8G): "I had a great time today. My favourite part was when we made the clay bricks and pizza oven. The instructors had some amazing facts - they were great. It was a lovely day overall.”

Liv Morton (8F): "Today I built a bridge out of sandbags and built a wall. I stood on top of my bridge, and it held! My wall was also very sturdy.”

Elsbeth Watts (8R): "It was very fun! I liked making the sand bridge and making an oven. Thank you very much!”

Joey Johnston (8R): "I made a sand bridge and a chalk wall as part of learning about sustainability. I also helped build a clay oven. I had fun with my friends."

Maisie Galloway (8E): "I did lots of activities and walking. I had a lot of exercise and enjoyed my time there!”

Mackenzie Edwards (8F): "Today I went to the Sustainability Centre and learned how to make a wall and a sand bridge. I had a very good time!”

This enriching experience not only deepened the students' understanding of sustainability but also equipped them with valuable skills and ideas for their future projects.