Fourth Form Geography Field Trip to Hafren Forest

Fourth Form Geography pupils enjoyed a highly successful and enriching fieldtrip to the Hafren Forest in Mid‑Wales, where they explored first-hand the physical geography of the upper course of the River Severn (Afon Hafren).

Blessed with excellent weather throughout the day, pupils were able to fully immerse themselves in the rugged and beautiful Welsh landscape while developing key fieldwork skills.

Exploring River Landforms

The trip focused on understanding the distinctive features of a river in its upper course. Pupils visited the impressive Blaen Hafren waterfall, observing how vertical erosion creates dramatic changes in the river’s profile. They also examined classic upper-course landforms including:

• V-shaped valleys, carved by vertical erosion
• Interlocking spurs, formed as the river winds around resistant rock
• Emerging meanders, demonstrating early lateral movement

Seeing these features in the landscape helped pupils connect classroom theory to real-world examples, deepening their understanding of river processes.

Hands-On Data Collection

A highlight of the day was the opportunity for pupils to become geographers in the field. Equipped with waders, groups entered the river to safely gather primary data. They measured:

• Velocity using float methods
• Channel depth and width at selected cross-sections
• Gradient along short stretches of the river
• Bedload characteristics, analysing size and shape of sediment

This hands-on experience allowed pupils to practise key geographical investigation skills such as data collection, recording, and teamwork, while gaining an appreciation of the challenges and rewards of fieldwork.

The Journey of the River Severn

Near its source in the Hafren Forest, the River Severn is a relatively small, fast-flowing stream shaped by steep gradients and dominant vertical erosion. Pupils reflected on how dramatically the river changes as it travels downstream. By the time it reaches Shrewsbury - right beside the school - it has become a much wider, voluminous river, characterised by large meanders, a broad floodplain, and significant deposition. This connection between fieldwork in Wales and the local environment made the learning especially meaningful.

The Value of Fieldwork

Fieldwork remains a vital component of Geography, enabling pupils to experience landscapes directly, apply theoretical knowledge, and develop independent enquiry skills. Opportunities like this help bring the subject to life, fostering curiosity and a deeper appreciation of the natural world—particularly within the diverse and striking landscapes of Wales.

Thanks and Acknowledgements

We would like to extend our sincere thanks to Natural Resources Wales for granting permission to use the site and supporting educational access to this important environment.

Overall, the trip was a fantastic opportunity for our Fourth Form pupils to develop their geographical skills, build confidence in fieldwork techniques, and gain a greater appreciation of the River Severn—from its upland source to its passage through our own local area.

You can watch highlights of the trip here:

Mr Rhodri Evans, Head of Geography