Wet Welly Award for A-Level-Style Fieldwork
The final two years at Davenies see the boys develop their intellectual maturity and take greater responsibility for their learning. The curriculum provides excellent preparation for the GCSE years that the boys will encounter when they move on to their next schools. In preparation for their Common Entrance geography fieldwork, during ACE Week, Year 8 pupils explored the River Chess and its surrounding catchment area, investigating how its characteristics align with the Bradshaw Model—a theory describing how rivers change downstream. The boys learned how to collect and analyse data in real-world settings, deepening their understanding of geographical concepts, in preparation for senior school GCSE and A level work.
Beyond the classroom, Year 8 visited Chesham, Chorleywood, and Rickmansworth, enthusiastically wading into the river to collect data on sediment samples, river discharge, and flow measurements, applying varied methodologies and calculations. Once back in the classroom, they worked collaboratively to analyse and present their findings, producing some outstanding coursework that showcased their ability to collect, interpret, and draw conclusions from field data.
This A-Level-style fieldwork not only deepened their geographical understanding but also equipped them with valuable skills in research, data analysis, presentation, and teamwork—skills they will carry forward into their academic journeys and beyond. Of the experience, one pupil remarked: ‘What I loved the most was exploring the environment and applying my knowledge to a long project. The excitement of discovering new places and observing natural features first hand made the learning process enjoyable and memorable.’
Another said: ‘The thing that I enjoyed most about the Geography Fieldwork was how we were out of the classroom and applying our knowledge to the outside world.’
As part of the study, our Head of Geography, Mr Maxfield, awarded one standout piece of fieldwork with the Wet Welly Award. This sought after award is given to the pupil who demonstrates the greatest proficiency throughout their investigative study. This year’s Year 8 produced exceptionally strong fieldwork projects that were a pleasure to read, and special mentions go to runners up, Raif who impressed with clear and accessible fieldwork, excelling in his data analysis and presenting his findings effectively, as well as Nicholas who delivered excellent research, with well-presented data and a clear, structured final report.
This year’s Wet Welly Award, however, goes to William. William produced an informative and insightful piece of fieldwork, where data was critically analysed, conclusions were well-drawn, and explanations were thorough and clear.
Throughout the Senior Years of 7 and 8 at Davenies, we remain committed to providing an extensive educational experience for the boys, fostering in them a more mature, ambitious and independent approach to study and sustaining their commitment right across the curriculum. The boys’ participation in their year’s Geography Fieldwork Study demonstrated hard work, dedication, and enthusiasm and they should all be proud of their achievements.
View some of the boys’ findings in the gallery below.
