Much of the terminology which students come across in their GCSE Geography studies can be a little 'dry' when studied in the classroom. By getting out and about in the Yorkshire Dales and experiencing at first hand the geology, geography and geomorphology of the area, (and usually a bit of meterology too!) students are likely to develop a much greater understanding of the subject.

 

I can provide days out in the Kingsdale, Chapel le Dale and Malham areas of the Dales, which lend themselves perfectly to this kind of study.

 

The day can be either purely on the surface, or more interestingly combining visits to both overground and underground features of the landscape.

 

Aspects covered include definitions of the Karst Landscape, discussion of the origins and properties of Limestone, how underground 'pretties' are formed, and visits to Limestone Pavements, Caves, Sink Holes, Resurgences, Gorges, Shake Holes, Basement Geology, commercial uses of Limestone and the conflicts between nature conservation and quarrying in the National Park.

 

Students are much more likely to remember the definition of a Grike when they have wriggled down into one, a Cave when they have marvelled at the shapes in the rock and the formations within, and a Plunge Pool when they have fallen into one!

 

Group size is up to 12 people. Caves visited will be chosen for their lack of significant obstacles, for example the first 250m of Sunset Hole, the lower parts of Great Douk Cave, Yordas Main Chamber and the Roof Tunnel in Kingsdale Master Cave.

 

All specialist equipment provided - oversuit and wellies, helmet and light etc.

 

I hold all the relevant paperwork requiremets for visits such as these - Caving and Hillwalking Qualifications, Geography Degree BA (Hons) (Lancaster), , Insurance, Risk Assessment, Operating Procedures, Child Protection Policy, Enhanced CRB, First Aid.