Ice and fire as St Cuthbert’s students enjoy trip of a lifetime

Geographical theory was brought dramatically to life, when students from St Cuthbert’s Catholic High School in Newcastle enjoyed the adventure of a lifetime in Iceland.

Thirty of the school’s Year 9 and 10 geography students spent five days exploring the diverse natural features of the dramatic Icelandic landscape, which ranged from the icy to volcanic.

“As part of their Geography studies, the boys investigated natural hazards, exploring why people choose to live in geologically active regions shaped by volcanoes, glaciers, geysers, and geothermal energy,” explained Geography Teacher Amy Charlton, who accompanied the group on the epic trip.

Among the most memorable moments were a walk along the active glacier Sólheimajökull; a visit to the Bridge Between Continents, where the Eurasian and North American tectonic plates diverge; experiencing the warmth of Iceland’s oldest geothermal pool, the Secret Lagoon; and exploring a 5,200-year-old volcanic lava tube.

The visitors were also treated to a virtual bird’s-eye view of the country, courtesy of the FlyOver Iceland VR Experience.

“The glacier walk was definitely my favourite part,” said student Julian Brachman. “The mountains all around us were stunning, and the views were absolutely incredible. Seeing the deep crevasses was something I’ll never forget.”

“My favourite part was the VR FlyOver,” added fellow student Alan Jiang. “It was an unforgettable experience – but the best moment was definitely hearing Miss Charlton scream as we suddenly dived down the waterfall!”

The Iceland trip was a new addition to the school calendar.

“This was the first time St Cuthbert’s had run this trip, and it proved to be an exceptional experience that brought classroom learning to life,” continued Miss Charlton.

“These activities not only strengthened the boys’ understanding of physical geography, but also built cultural capital, broadening their world view, and helping secure their knowledge through lived experience.”