LIV Geography trip to Kew Gardens
31 March 2026 - Academic
Before the Easter break, LIV Geography pupils visited Kew Gardens to enrich their studies outside of the classroom. They explored a range of glasshouses, biomes and curated landscapes, gaining first-hand insight into plant diversity, ecosystems and climate adaptations.
We heard from pupils, Willow and Maya (LIV), who shared their experiences:
‘The Kew Gardens trip began with us exploring many different areas including the Royal Botanic Gardens and several Greenhouses. Throughout our visit, we completed three sections of a booklet, which included Biology, Art and Geography sections. We analysed different species of plants and their microclimates.
In Geography, we separated into smaller group to learn more about microclimates with a teacher at Kew Gardens explaining their importance. We analysed five places using a range of tools such as a barometer, thermometer, a light meter and many more. We used this data to answer questions like ‘Where should you put a bench according to your data?’ We were also given an iPad to take photos and add key annotations about the surrounding atmosphere. We learnt about how these investigations help Kew Gardens staff understand which species thrive in different climates.
After this, we arrived at the site where we explored the Biology and Art aspects of Kew Gardens. In Art, we drew different architectural structures around the Gardens and explained how each structure supports plant growth. We also sketched an orange tree in a conservatory situated in sunlight and in a warm, damp area. Through this, we learnt how plants adapt to sunlight and why certain species grow best in particular environments. In Biology, we visited the Princess of Wales Conservatory, which was very warm and humid with sprinklers producing a light mist. We studied different leaf shapes and how they are adapted – some with large surface areas to absorb sunlight, and others smaller to allow light to reach lower levels.
Throughout this trip, we learnt so much about microclimates, architectural design and the biology behind plant growth. This trip was incredible, and we both enjoyed and learnt so much!’
A big thank you to the Geography department and to the staff who made this trip possible.
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