Year 7 Trip to Elsamere Field Study Centre

On 16^th - 17^th May Year 7 spent 2 days and one night at Elsamere Field Study Centre, on the shores of Lake Naivasha.  The pupils studied 3 types of habitat and carried out a sample sizing exercise. 

The habitats studied were the lake itself, the acacia woodland surrounding the lake, and grassland surrounding the trees. 

The pupils were lucky to have the assistance of the Elsamere staff who are a mine of information about the lake and its inhabitants.  Cliff gave a very interesting and passionate talk about the history of the lake, the problems facing it, and its uncertain future.  Anthony repeatedly demonstrated his enthusiasm for Lake Naivasha by providing useful information about birds, reptiles, fish, mammals, and the people that rely on the lake for their livelihood. 

The pupils worked hard for 2 days observing, measuring, and recording information on plants and animals within each habitat.  The high-light for many was the boat trip out on to the lake where hippos and fish eagles, as well as many other organisms, were to be seen.

The 2 days at Naivasha provided a great deal of information needed for CE, as well as thought-provoking ideas on the impact of humans on the Lake and it's surroundings.