Recently, Year 5 have been carrying out geographical enquiries based on the theme ‘Peaks and Eruptions’. Their knowledge of mountain environments was enhanced greatly by a fieldwork trip to Carding Mill Valley. National Trust volunteers led us on a guided walk around the area looking at the landscape, plant life and animals. Also, we carried out an orienteering exercise in small groups; our challenge was to use a map of the area to find numbers and clues. We thoroughly enjoyed our trip despite the weather and are now using the information gained to produce a brochure about the area.

In addition to this, we were fortunate to have a local mountaineer, Finn McCann, visit our school. Everyone enjoyed seeing the plethora of equipment needed to safely climb mountainous areas. In order to capture our interest further, he showed us photographs and video clips of the amazing areas in the world which he has visited. Finn inspired adults and pupils alike with his enthusiasm, pragmatic outlook and determination to succeed.

Year 5 teachers would like to thank the children and their parents who made such an effort to research a mountain range. The models were fantastic and the cakes were delicious – we’ve never eaten the Himalayas before!