GCSE Field Trip to Bournemouth

It was the hottest day of the year when the year 10 pupils went to Bournemouth in order to complete some preparatory work for their GCSE geography fieldwork. The aim of their visit was to collect data to assess whether Bournemouth is in the rejuvenation or decline stage of tourism development, as shown in the Butler Model.

Firstly, the pupils walked around Bournemouth visiting the tourist hotspots in an effort to evaluate the tourist infrastructure. They completed an environmental quality survey where they examined the impact of tourism on the environment. The pupils also interviewed people in the area, in order to determine the distance that tourists were willing to travel to visit the area. In addition, they collected data on the registration numbers of vehicles so that they could find out the countries that the tourists originated from. In addition, they took photos whilst walking around Bournemouth showing evidence of rejuvenation or decline.

Afterwards, the pupils were offered a well-deserved break along the beach where they ate their lunch whilst relaxing in the hot sun and splashing around in the sea. They also had the chance to buy ice-creams along the beach, which was a welcome treat after a long day in the sun.

The pupils continued their work but along the beach observing for signs of longshore drift as well as coastal management. This was a chance for pupils to see the process in action and put their knowledge to the test, as well as further improve their understanding.

After a long day of hard work in the hot sun, most pupils felt sleepy on the journey home. Thank you to the geography teachers and Mr Warner for organising a highly rewarding and educational trip for the year 10 geography pupils.