Ecology Fieldwork

Our Lower Sixth Biologists ventured to Constable country to complete the ecology element of their A Level course.

The Field Studies Centre is located amidst the quintessentially English countryside of the Dedham Vale in Suffolk. Alex reports back on the three-day fieldwork trip:

“Settled on the banks of the River Stour, Flatford Mill is currently managed by the National Trust. We ventured into the humble 15th-century structure of Valley Farm, raring to undertake various Practical Activity Groups (PAGs) on the topic of ecology. On the first day, we entered the classroom and, with the help of our assigned teacher, set to work. Simon initially taught us about biodiversity, its importance and why we measure it, particularly here in the UK. Following this, we roved into the neighbouring woods, abundant with sun-dappled elm trees and a variety of plant species, such as bluebells, which we then sampled. We carried out a stratified sampling technique, where we completed random sampling in two areas – at the edge and centre of the woods; we also measured abiotic factors such as soil temperature, soil compaction and light intensity. The following day was highly anticipated, as we travelled to Shingle Street Beach, a coastal settlement, to measure the change in species richness and abundance as one travels inwards from the shore to the fields. On the final day, we were given the opportunity to plan our own sampling method. My group decided to sample the biodiversity in mown areas and unmown areas. The evenings on both Wednesday and Thursday night were spent in the classroom, carrying out statistical analysis on the days’ samples. Overall, the trip provided us with not just a chance to complete our required practical tasks, but also a more specific understanding of ecology in the UK and the vitality of biodiversity.”