On 7th March Farlington School’s Geography students from Year 9 took a field trip to Brighton beach and Ditchling Beacon in the South Downs National Park to carry out an investigation on ‘Tourism’.
Farlington students explored the contrasting appeal of the two locations and considered whether visitors are managed sustainably. Accompanied by Geography teachers, Mr Dwyer and Mrs Edgar, and class- room assistant, Mrs MacFarlane, the girls walked from Hove lawns to the Brighton i360 observation tower. The group ‘checked in‘ at 10.30am for their 11.00am ‘flight’ and ascended to a height of 138 metres. The students found it fascinating to see Brighton from a different perspective. It was clear enough on the day to see Shoreham and Worthing to the west and Brighton marina to the east. Whilst in the i360 ‘pod’, the Farlington students enjoyed the amazing 360-degree views and produced an annotated sketch of the pier and beach area.
The students then conducted ‘quality of environment’ surveys and collected data about car parking. Stu- dents learned about the recent £950,000 renovation of the bandstand, which originally opened in 1884. The girls then walked to the Palace pier and had lunch. Some of the students enjoyed fi and chips and freshly prepared doughnuts which was one of the highlights of the day!
After which, the Farlington students travelled by mini- bus to the South Downs. They walked along the famous South Downs Way to one of the highest points in the National Park, Ditchling Beacon. The girls identified the different user groups who visit the area, including ramblers, mountain bikers and dog walkers. The students concluded that, although the Downs lacked the variety and vibrancy of Brighton seafront, the tranquility and breath-taking views made the area a delightful place to visit.
Mr Dwyer, Head of Geography at Farlington, said, “Our field visit to the coast and countryside gave students a great opportunity to sample some of the amazing tourist destinations available on our doorstep here in Sussex. It really helps to bring the ideas we learn about in the classroom alive. This is the first time that we have been able to go up in the recently completed Brighton i360 and the Farlington students certainly enjoyed the experience!”
