Brambletye hosted the IAPS Geography Conference on Fieldwork, chaired by Mr. Miller, the Head of Geography at Brambletye and IAPS Subject Leader.

Thirty-five geography teachers from prep schools as far afield as Dorset, Northumberland and East Anglia came to listen to a variety of lectures, learn some new fieldwork techniques and keep up-to-date with the latest developements in fieldwork in independant schools.

The first lecture was given by Peter Price, the Head of Geography at Charterhouse, giving an insight into what senior schools do in terms of fieldwork through to A-Level and reinforcing the importance of fieldwork in prep school geography.  Paul Baker (former IAPS Subject Leader and a consultant for teh Geographical Association) spoke next on risk assessment and how to ensure that fieldwork is carried out safely and the importance of the pupils taking part in the risk assessment process.

Lunch was spectacular and a great big 'thank you' was given to the Brambletye Catering Staff and Mrs. Cocke for organising such a sumptious spread!

The teachers learn how to survey slopes

The first afternoon session required the teachers to don their wellies and look at the fieldwork possibilities offered by the grounds at Brambletye.  Under the watchful eye of Debbie Sandels, the Head of Environmental Education at Heatree Activity Centre, Devon, the geography teachers then became pupils, learning a new slope-profiling technique using a length of tubing, two metre rulers and some water.  Fortunately, Mr. Miller had organised a splendid sunny autumnal day!  The last session was given by Mr. Miller on how fieldwork should be and could be presented as well as a plenary session on changes in Common Entrance and the future plans of the IAPS. 

A lot of very positive feedback about the school site, its staff and the well-behaved pupils has been received.

A special note of thanks goes to Mrs. Cocke, who organised the Brambletye end of the conference superbly and ensured that everything ran like clockwork.

Mr. Miller