Georgraphy Field Trip - Grand Western Canal

16th October 2025

As part of our geography topic, Ash Class visited the Grand Western Canal for a field trip to deepen their understanding of freshwater aquatic biomes. We were met there by Jo, one of the Canal Rangers, who guided us throughout our trip.

We were also welcomed to the canal by the resident swans, ducks, and moorhens, who were waiting right at our meeting point—giving us a fantastic learning opportunity to begin our day. Walking along the towpath, Jo pointed out numerous flora species that call the biome their home.

Once we arrived at the pontoon by the Minnows Touring Park, the children split into three groups: Group 1 did some pond dipping with Jo and used classification keys to identify the mini-beasts they found; Miss Keary assisted the children in creating observational drawings of the canal; and Mr Snow and Mr Bishop walked further along the canal to hunt for more examples of the flora and fauna.

It was a fantastic day during which the children learned so much from their hands-on experience. Many thanks to Jo for assisting us on our trip, and to the volunteers and staff who helped out.