First year Geography fieldtrips

Our new cohort of Geography students have been taking part in a number of field trips so far this term.

Students visited central London to develop a tourist trail.  Working in small groups, each took on a different theme for the focus of their trail.

Students in Covent Garden, London

The students have also visited Wren's Nest, Dudley, as part of a physical geography module. The students did some fossil-hunting, then learned to identify the fossils found.

The group fossil-hunting at Wren's Nest, Dudley

Learning to identify the fossils found.

Fieldwork is a great way for students to apply what they have learned in the classroom, as well as providing opportunities to develop geographical and transferable skills.

First year Geographers learn about heritage tourism at 78 Derngate

In order to learn more about heritage tourism, our first year Geography students paid a visit to 78 Derngate.  78 Derngate  is located in Northampton town centre, and is a key tourist attraction in the town.  The house was designed by Charles Rennie Mackintosh in 1916.  It was Mackintosh’s final major commission, and the only house in England to be designed by him.

Students outside 78 Derngate

Distinctive Charles Rennie Mackintosh design

78 Derngate is now an award-winning tourist attraction.  Students went on a tour of the house and talked with staff to find out more about the house, the visitors, and how the site has been restored.  This field visit ties in with issues explored in class about heritage tourism and tourism management.