Our Year 11 GCSE students enjoyed a science trip to Harlings Farm on the edge of Dartmoor. This was to support their learning on a range of topics they have been studying as part of the GCSE syllabus including Human Impact on the Environment, Pollution and Biodiversity. The farm is showcasing the new DEFRA—led initiatives in UK Farming, designed to conserve nature and increase biodiversity.
Despite the persistent rain, students enjoyed collecting materials to make bug hotels, in the Bluebell Woodland. The farm owner, Abby, explained how they were thinning and maintaining the ancient oak woods to encourage new healthy growth. Abby explained how they were having to alter the flow of the stream so as to prevent the build-up of silt, which could lead to flooding. The students were very interested and could recognise things they’d learnt about in class being put into practise for real.
