This week, Upper Sixth science pupils have been taking part in a three day residential field trip to Buckfastleigh.
Pupils enjoyed measuring limpets to carry out statistical tests in order to compare limpet sizes settled on different shores, as well as taking soil samples to assess the nutrients of a mature heathland. On the second day a torrential downpour limited outdoor work, so instead pupils worked on theory and conducted some seashore modelling of indicator species. On the last afternoon, the team headed to South Milton beach just as the sun appeared. As an exposed rocky shore, it was perfect for our second bout of limpet measuring, enabling completion of the statistical analysis and a belt transect to identify algal zonation. The residential trip ended with classroom work, a BBQ and welcoming campfire.
