Fieldwork on Dartmoor for Geology Students

GCSE Geology students had the opportunity to take on their first fieldwork experience this year. Investigating the metamorphic aureole of Dartmoor, the large group of students were able to visit the Yennadon Stone Quarry, near to the village of Dousland, where they produce stone for various purposes, including rustic stone walling, paving stones, as well as the facing stones used for enhancing the outward appearance of properties.

Students were able to gain a real overview of the whole process from extracting the stone to the final dressing of the stone for architectural purposes. The group then moved to the disused Burrator Upper and Lower quarries to see the transition from Hornfels to Granite. After making several observations the group were able to visit the Burrator dam and after a well-deserved ice-cream, they discussed the siting of the dam and the reasons for it. The day was completed by a visit to Cadover Bridge, where students were able to study modern day fluvial processes and link this to their studies earlier in the year. During their return to school, students were also able to see the extensive Lee Moor China Clay works as well as the new mine at Hemerdon.

"It is important to expose our students to the study of geology" said Mr Neighbour, Subject Lead for Geology and Careers Leader at TGGS. "As a careers area it is one that needs to see many more women enter the area, and trips like this make sure that our young people are aware of the many opportunities this sector will offer, as we move towards the 'Green Economy', where working sustainably will be more important than ever!" It would seem that this exposure is working, with one of the participants moved to say "Thank you for taking us. That trip rocked!"