Year 11 Geography Residential Trip to Swanage

On Thursday 11^th September 2025, a group of Year 11 students embarked on an exciting field trip to the coastal town of Swanage for three days: an unforgettable adventure.

Day 1: Thursday 11^th September – We gathered by the minibuses bright and early in the morning, eagerly chatting to our friends. Boarding the minibuses, we set off, everyone’s eyes instantly glued to their phones. After a short stop at the services, filling our hungry stomachs, we resumed our journey to the coast.

Arriving at the glistening sea, we took a short ferry across the calm blue water, reaching Shell Beach, where some enjoyed lunch, whilst others enjoyed a game of volleyball. Dejected that we had to leave the beach, we reluctantly dragged ourselves back to the minibuses.

Finally, we pulled into the town of Swanage, stopping at the youth hostel. The teachers then introduced us to the town and took us around on a short walk, where the weather took a turn for the worse. After the rain ceased, we had some free time exploring Swanage. Rushing to the ice cream shop, we made the most of the bright sunshine. Then, followed by a short stroll through the streets, we eventually made our way back to the youth hostel.

Discovering our amazing rooms, we spent some time inside, before coming downstairs for dinner. After dinner, we made our way to a classroom, refreshing our map skills by answering some questions. As soon as the classroom ended, everyone rushed outside to explore the silent, deserted town at night, visiting some shops and returning, knowing tomorrow was a big day to come.

Day 2: Friday 12^th September – After a night that felt endless, being awake for hours, we were awoken by a loud knocking, and Mr Simpson telling us to get up. Getting dressed, we trudged downstairs for breakfast. Next, rapidly grabbing our lunch, we set off to Knoll Beach in Studland Bay. Here, we carried out surveys on the environment and facilities at the beach and measured wind speeds and marram grass cover as we walked up the beach. Earning some well-deserved free time, we enjoyed the beach before heading back to Swanage, this time, by foot.

The hike was more tiring than it looked. We walked through an ancient World War 2 observation bunker, squeezing through the narrow pathways of what was once a defence against German invasion. Ultimately reaching the Old Harry rocks, we carefully approached the edge of the cliff, awestruck by the view of Old Harry. Taking some pictures, everyone sat down to draw a sketch of Old Harry. Walking through green fields, up hills and down narrow wooden steps, we trekked back to Swanage. Walking alongside the beach, we admired the scenery. Tired, we made our way straight to the youth hostel resting before dinner. In the evening classroom lesson, we created a poster in groups, encouraging tourists to visit Knoll Beach. Once again, we ventured down into Swanage, experiencing the freedom at night, before coming back with dozens of new memories.

Day 3: Saturday 13^th September – Once again woken up by loud knocking, we rushed downstairs to breakfast, knowing this was the last day of our trip. Checking out of our rooms and loading the bags on the minibuses, we headed to Durdle Door. Following a rain delay, we all headed up a steep hill to grasp a view of Durdle Door. It was spellbinding. The ocean was a clear turquoise and the sun shone vibrantly. We then descended on a pebble beach, the limestone arch stood behind, and everyone gazed in awe. We then walked back to Lulworth Cove, where we learnt how Stair Hole and Lulworth Cove were formed and what they would look like in the future.

Finally, it was time to go. We hopped onto the minibuses, concluding an incredibly fun trip. We all learnt new things and had fun with our friends, building an unforgettable experience. Thank you to all the teachers who organised it: Ms Rockell, Mr Wright, Mrs Wright, and Mr Simpson.

By Yash Gandhi 11O