In June our Level 3 Geography field trip to the Leith River was a great success.

Students conducted primary research along three sites—representing the upper, middle, and lower courses of the river. The aim was to collect data to investigate how river characteristics change along its course.

With support from the University of Otago, students had access to professional equipment including waders, flowmeters, and clinometers as well as insights from rivers PHD student Kate. Working in groups, they gathered data on key variables such as river velocity, width, depth, slope, and sediment size. The data collected will now be used to help students analyse patterns, test hypotheses, and develop a deeper understanding of fluvial processes in preparation for their internal assessment.

Students enjoyed the opportunity to apply their classroom learning in a real-world environment. Geography teachers Mrs Summerfield and Mr O’Farrell were impressed with how game students were for getting in the river and how effectively they collaborated to collect the data.