On the 7th of April, a group of 40 Year 11 students and 5 staff set off (at the ridiculously early start of 1am) for what was an unforgettable trip to Iceland. The trip gave students first-hand experience of material covered in the GCSE Geography specification. Such is the range of natural features and stunning scenery in Iceland, it was an amazing opportunity to experience this landscape far removed from everyday experiences. It certainly brought classroom learning to life in the most remarkable way.

Day 1: Arrival and The Reykjanes Peninsular

After arriving in Keflavik at 9am, the students visited the Bridge between Continents where the students could stand on the bridge that was built as a symbol of connection over the rift that has formed between the Eurasian and the North American plates. From there we moved on to the Gunnuhver hot springs – a really exciting way to be introduced to Iceland’s magnificent geothermal landscapes. After a lunch stop, we made our way to the Reykjanes Lighthouse which allowed the students to take some great photos – when the cloud lifted and the rain stopped.

After our rather long and busy day we made our way to our accommodation which had the rather spectacular back drop of Eyjafjallajökull (the Icelandic volcano that brought Europe to a standstill when it erupted in 2010).

The day started with a visit to the Lava and Earthquake Centre in Hvolsvöllur where we learnt all about how Iceland came to be. Students enjoyed the day exploring Skogafoss and Seljalandsfoss waterfalls as well as spending some time visiting the small village of Vik before visiting the Black Sand Beach where basalt columns towered over the beach. Mr Bouzida was most upset not to spot any Puffins who are usually seen flying around this area at this time of year.

In the afternoon we had the privilege of taking a hike on the Sólheimajökull glacier where students were kitted out with crampons and an ice axe, walked up the glacier with an experienced guide and had the opportunity to taste fresh glacier meltwater, and even lean over the edge of a crevasse to see a spectacular waterfall underneath it.

Day 3: Golden Circle Tour

With the fullness of the first two days catching everyone up, it was time to recharge our batteries and the first stop of the day was to the Secret Lagoon – the oldest swimming pool in Iceland. Here the students got the opportunity to bathe in the natural hot springs which are surrounded by geothermal hot spots. The water was a wonderful 40°C and after an hour we all felt fully revitalised and ready to continue our exciting tour.

The next visit was to the Haukadalur Geothermal Area home to the famous Great Geyser which has lent is name to hot springs all over the world ~ Strokkur (The Great Geyser) shoots a column of water up to 30 meters (98 feet) into the air every 5-6 minutes in a thrilling display of natures forces.

After another short drive we arrived at Gullfoss – the Golden Waterfall. This is one of the most impressive waterfalls in Europe created by the Hvítá river, which tumbles and plunges into a crevice some 32 m (105 ft) deep.

Our last stop of the day before making our way to our second hotel of the trip was the remarkable geological site and the most historic site in Iceland Þingvellir National Park . Þingvellir is the site of the world’s oldest democratic parliament founded in 930. The beautiful canyon running through the park is actually the meeting point of two of the earths tectonic plates – the only place in the world where you can stand between two continental plates!

Day 4: Hellisheidi Geothermal Power Plant, Hveragerdi Geothermal Park, Lava Tunnel and Reykjavik.

Our first stop of the day was to the Hellisheidi Geothermal Power Plant for an introduction on how Iceland utilises its geothermal energy. Students were given a 20 minute talk about how geothermal energy is harnessed and used and they were then given 30 minutes to have a look around the Power Plant including the turbine room which smelt like rotten eggs from the sulphur.

On our drive to the next attraction, the Hveragerdi Geothermal Park, the weather drew in, and it was clear to see why they say you can experience all 4 seasons in one day. At the Hveragerdi Geothermal Park there was an opportunity to boil some eggs in one of the geothermal hotspots, watch another geyser erupt into the air and then have a taste of some rather unique Lava Bread. (A very sweet, malty cake baked for 12 hours in a geothermal hotspot).

We then drove to the Lava Tunnel where we had some lunch before exploring Raufarhólshellir, the fourth- largest and the most visually enjoyable lava cave in Iceland. We walked through the 1360m long lava tunnel. It was an incredible ethereal experience where we explored rainbow-colored walls and stunning rock formations as we traversed the twists and turns of the cave. A thrilling adventure below the earth, especially when they turned the lights off!

After the thrilling adventure of the Lava Tunnel we then had a more relaxing afternoon where we had some free time in Iceland’s Capital City. Here we visited the Hallgrímskirkja Church, strolled along the streets of Reykjavik, along the ‘Rainbow Street’ and along the harbour front past the Sun Voyager ~ a sculpture to celebrate the city’s 200th birthday.

Day 5: Safe Return Home

Again a very early start was had, we had a breakfast at 3:45am in our hotel before a 5am departure for Keflavik airport and our return flight back to the UK.

Although this trip was action packed and we were all exhausted by the end of it, the trip was definitely enriching. The Year 11 students who went said it has deepened their geographical understanding. Iceland definitely showcased the natural power and beauty of Mother Nature. I want to thank all staff who went as without your help the trip would not have been the amazing success it was.