Key Stage 4

All KS4 activities are for GCSE students.

A typical day….
The students usually arrive between 9.30 and 10.00 a.m, are welcomed and introduced to their education leaders and divided into groups for the morning activity. Many of the sessions start in the classroom where the aim and background information are introduced. At lunch time the groups meet back at the centre to eat their packed lunch. In the afternoon the students change to the alternative session to ensure they cover the whole programme. The day finishes by 4.00 p.m.

Courses available for Key Stage 4

Aquatic Invertebrate Study (half day)
at Nower Wood | Bay Pond
Aquatic organisms from two ponds are collected, counted and identified. The data is then compared.

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Coppiced Comparison (full or half day)
at Nower Wood
The sustainable management technique of coppicing is explained. Comparison of flora distribution between newly coppiced and mature coppiced woodland is made.

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Ecology Walk (half day)
at Nower Wood | Bay Pond
This flexible session enables many aspects of ecology to be covered.

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Meadow Ecology (half day)
at Bay Pond
Survey techniques are used to compare nutrient rich and nutrient poor meadows.

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Plant Study (half day)
at Nower Wood
The students study the woodland ecology to learn about the plants and the factors that affect their distribution.

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Population Study (half day)
at Nower Wood | Bay Pond
Population sizes are estimated from species collected. Predator prey relationships and factors affecting populations are discussed.

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Succession Study (half day)
at Nower Wood
The succession process and zonation of vegetation is studied using quadrats along a transect.

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Terrestrial Invertebrates (half day)
at Nower Wood | Bay Pond
A detailed study of invertebrate life in two woodland areas.

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ISA's
at Nower Wood | Bay Pond
Fieldwork Investigations.

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Our sessions are always planned and presented with the Health & Safety of the students in mind. The activities instil an awareness of the importance of observation when studying animals and plants in their natural habitats. Students are encouraged to treat the organisms with care and sensitivity. We also emphasise the need to look after our environment. Most importantly we hope you enjoy your day out, and return to school with a better understanding of how we fit into the natural world.