The final fieldtrip of the year took Year 7 to Cardiff Bay to explore the regeneration of this area of former docks and warehouses.  Pupils were able to explore the major sites by foot and by boat.  The boat trip around the bay enabled pupils to see the partially complete £700 million International Sports Village development and the £220 million Barrage which created a 200 hectare freshwater lake.  A quick tour of Roald Dahl Plass, the magnificent Wales Millennium Centre and the Senedd building gave pupils an appreciation of the ‘metamorphoses’ from dereliction to 21st century waterfront development.

The morning activities culminated in a visit to the Cardiff Bay Visitor Centre where pupils listened to a talk on the major achievements of the regeneration scheme.  Pupils also gained an insight into the environmental issues linked to the building of the Barrage, the loss of feeding grounds for wildlife and the expense of oxygenating the lake to prevent it becoming stagnant.  Then it was off to Techniquest for some fun mathematical problem solving at the ‘Mathamagic’ workshop.

Mr N Meek

“The sun shone for us (luckily) as we walked around Cardiff bay.  I learnt a lot about the Bay’s history and the new Sports Village.  I will definitely be going to the ice rink.  Will I ever be able to afford those luxury apartments? I hope so!  I never knew that Roald Dahl was christened in the Norwegian Church.  Finally being able to stand where Doctor Who and Torchwood was filmed was a real treat.  Thanks for a great day!” Hannah

“The trip to the Bay was fun packed.  A joyful boat journey around the bay, learning more and more throughout the day.  We went to the Senedd building and looked into the debating chamber.  We then had lunch in the glorious sunshine before going to Techniquest.  The day was great fun; it will stick in my mind forever.  It was a trip of a life time!” Olivia

“The trip was informative and interesting.  I particularly enjoyed the boat ride.  The apartments by Cardiff Bay are well lush! I give this trip 10/10.” Helen

“The trip was fun and interesting.  It was fascinating to learn about the incredible amount of history and change the Bay has experienced.  My favourite part of the trip was the incredibly detailed model of Cardiff located in the Visitor Centre.” Lucy

The spectacular Millennium Building	A bird's eyey view of the Welsh Assembly debating chamber
Having fun at the Mathamagic event, Techniquest	View of Cardiff Bay Waterfront

For further information relating to Cardiff Bay investigate the following websites:

The Official Cardiff Bay Website www.cardiffbay.co.uk

Cardiff Bay Webcam www.bbc.co.uk/wales

Cardiff Bay map www.purecardiff.com

Cardiff Bay Harbour Authority www.cardiffharbour.com