Chamonix Geography Fieldtrip 2022

Continuing the post-pandemic rolling out of the Geography fieldwork programme, sixteen Lower Sixth geographers travelled to the French Alps last week to study alpine ecosystems, glaciers, glacial landscapes and the environmental and socio-economic impacts of tourism and climate change in sensitive landscapes.

Accommodation was in a ski chalet in the small village of Le Bettex near St Gervais-les-bains where rooms afforded spectacular views of Mont Blanc as well as the pretty alpine pastures, most of which were in bloom with rich collections of flowers and grasses outside of the ski season. The catering was first class and a local bus company was able to take us to a range of locations to undertake fieldwork and for the pupils to get to know the area thoroughly. Highlights included the Bossons glacier and its outwash plain; morning runs in the hills with Mr Goodrich; the Balcon du Nord with its blockfields, snow patches and unrivalled views of the Chamonix valley; the Mer de Glace and its ice caves; the Montenvers Victorian mountain railway; Argentieres and of course the famous resort of Chamonix itself with its shops, restaurants, historic significance and the luge d’ete.

The weather was mixed but with two superb sunny days in the mountains, some cloud, rain and thunder storms either side were not unwelcome. The group worked very hard, were a credit to their school and will have benefited enormously for their experiences. It is great to have this field trip back on the calendar and we all look forward to next year. Thanks to Mr Hughes and Mrs McLean for giving up their time to provide excellent assistance.