Emily Allen and Emilia Hoar (Lower Sixth)

Last weekend (Friday 15th – Sunday 17th June), the Lower Sixth IB and A level biologists travelled to the beautiful Flatford Mill, Suffolk for an Ecology Field Trip.

We spent time in a classroom studying the theory behind concepts like ecological succession at the coast, before venturing outside to carry out sampling techniques to investigate these theories for ourselves. Whilst the IB girls carried out investigations into species diversity in freshwater locations, the A Level girls travelled to Shingle Street by the coast to see ecological succession on a shingle ridge.

Using the sampling techniques and statistical tests we learnt, we then planned and carried out our own investigation into an element of ecology as part of our A Level required practical and IB Internal Assessments.

The lovely setting, sunny weather and good food as well as fun and engaging lessons, meant that a good time was had by all and a lot was learned. It has opened our eyes to the real life applications of biology and the fact that it is happening all around us.