Geography IB IA Field Work | Four elements

Geography IB IA Field Work

IB/ A-Level Geography Field Trip

Based in the Southern German Alpine town of Berchtesgaden, our geography field trip brings IB and A-Level geography studies to life!

At the door to the Berchtesgaden National Park, students have the possibility to experience the dynamic interplay between people, places, spaces and the environment first hand. A carefully curated programme, including guided tours, hands-on activities and field work, enriches students’ understanding of geographical concepts and fosters critical thinking skills.

As well as revising IB geogrpahy syllabus, students have the possibility to complete their IA study as part of this trip.

Activities include:

Guided visit to National Park Information Centre
1-2 day Guided hike with field work - from valley floor to glacier
Visit to Schönau and Lake Königsee Lake
Boat trip across Lake Königsee and guided hike
Overnight mountain refuge stay
Evening presentation by National Park ranger
Visit of local salt mines

IB Themes include:

Extreme environments
Geophysical hazards
Leisure, tourism and sport
Fresh water

IB IA Field work possibilities include:

Extreme environments
Leisure, tourism and sport

Accommodation

Youth Hostel:

We are based at the Youth Hostel in Berchtesgaden, with views across to the Watzmann mountain and Eagle’s Nest.

Rooms: 4-6 bed rooms with ensuite bathrooms/ shared bathrooms, single rooms with ensuite for teachers.

German Alpine Hut:

An overnight stay in a mountain hut is an unforgettable experience for students and gives the opportunity to explore the extreme environment in greater depth. This idyllically located mountain hut, lies at the foot of the most northerly remnant of glacier in the Alps. A site above also marks where the previous hut was destroyed by an avalanche.

Rooms: Shared dorms (single sex), staff in separate rooms. Shared washrooms (single-sex).

Safety and Risk Management

Risk management guidance and assistance with risk assessments for schools
Detailed pre-trip information, packing list, pre-visit and equipment check
Expert, experienced, and certified guides for hiking/ outdoor activities
High guide to student ratio (1:10 - 1:12)
24/7 Trip support

Field work includes:

Field work resource folder with reference materials
Weather data

Blaueis Glacier Hike and Field work: Activity level

This is a medium difficulty tour- perfect for hikers with experience in alpine terrain and good fitness. Most of the routes are along RED (Austrian Classification) paths. Students should be prepared to walk between 4-6 hrs per day - with the longest days’ ascent being an 800m-1000m climb over 6km. The walking pace will be around 300m/hr (ascent).

A real mix of trails - from easy, wider trails to narrower, uneven paths. Sure-footedness and a head for heights are needed.

Region

Berchtesgaden, located in southeastern Germany, boasts a captivating blend of natural wonders and cultural heritage. The UNESCO Biosphere Reserve of Berchtesgaden National Park boasts stunning Alpine scenery, lush forests, and fjord-like lakes. Guided hikes offer opportunities to study glacial landscapes and erosion processes firsthand. Explore historic sites and traditional villages to delve into the region's rich cultural heritage. Learn about sustainable tourism and conservation efforts in this picturesque setting. A perfect setting for an educational Geography IB trip that combines outdoor exploration with insights into environmental stewardship and regional tourism. Experience the beauty and diversity of Berchtesgaden firsthand.