Geography students map out their futures

A-Level Geography students have been learning about the devastating impact of natural disasters and assessing coastal drifts during a series of workshops, seminars and field studies.

First up, the students discovered how scientists and engineers use technology such as satellites and local-scale measurements to better predict when geohazards such as earthquakes, landslides and tsunamis are likely to happen.

The lectures, delivered by Northumbria University staff and members of the Geographical Association, also raised the student’s aspirations of studying beyond sixth form as well as providing a greater insight into the modules they study on their course.

A-Level Geography and Politics Student, Elliott Yule, said:

“The geography lectures we attend at Northumbria University are always really good as it’s great to experience what the future holds for me.

“I have applied to study at university next year and being able to attend these lectures makes me look forward to it even more.”

Adam Sams, Sixth Form Curriculum Manager, added:

“This was a brilliant experience for our A-Level students.

“Working with Northumbria University and The Geographical Association really does give them a head start for university life in the future, as well as linking their studies to a range of geography-related career prospects.”

Visiting Silloth on the Solway Coast the students collected a range of samples from the beach and conducted analysis into the role of longshore drift and the impact of coastal engineering as part of their ‘Coasts’ module.

Then, linking to the ‘Changing Places’ module, they travelled to Keswick to survey members of the public about whethe the Lake District and Cumbria can still be considered the Adventure Capital of the UK.

The students gained practical experience, taking their classroom learning into the real world and apply their knowledge and understanding of geographical ideas and processes.

Mitchell Thirlwell, A-Level Geography and English student, said:

“I loved this fieldtrip. It was so much fun and I enjoyed seeing what we have studied with Adam in our lessons happening in the real world.

“It really helped my understanding of the subject and I’m pretty sure of what I want to base my geography coursework on after we experienced such different opportunities in Keswick and Silloth.”

Adam, added: “I look forward to this trip so much each year as it’s great to get students out of the classroom and experience the geography of places many have only ever come across in lessons.

“The students love it too – it’s not just ‘geography’, it’s about the social time they get to spend with each other, interacting with members of the public and just becoming fantastic and respectful members of the public. They couldn’t have represented the college any better.”