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"Much of pupils' learning should be based on direct experience, practical activities and exploration of the local area... and a locality which offers a contrast to the local area". Quote from Key Stage 1, Geography in the National Curriculum. Doesn't that sound like a canal trip to you? Let's show you just how much... |
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Pupils can follow a route on a map, identify features and make their own map. (AT1) The boats we see focus attention on the pursuits of canal dwellers whether for work or leisure (AT2) |
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The landscape varies - canalside residences, light industrial, retail and then into the Ouzel valley. The locks provide a means of descending and ascending the valley. (AT3) The canal is one way of making a journey, the towpath, railway and road (all visible) are others. Why might they be preferred? (AT4) |
| A trip aboard a narrow boat provides a tremendous contrast to the modern way of life. We travel very quietly at just 4 knots and even on a busy day on the canal pupils will notice the lack of noisy traffic. IS the peacefulness of the canal all that matters? What about pollution? (AT5) | |
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Compare the construction of the canals 200 years ago with modern roadbuilding. The use of canals past and present are also in stark contrast. Differences in living conditions and modes of dress are particularly fascinating. (AT1) Change is implicit in the story of canals. Note the railway which runs parallel. Rail was faster and cheaper by the mid 19th century. The again, the lock is a fine example of something that hasn't changed. (AT1) At Key Stage II the study unit CSU3 "Victorian Britain" would be incomplete without mention of the canals. At Key Stage III the study unit CSU4 "Expansion, trade and industry: Britain 1750-1900" also involves the development of canal transport. Due emphasis on the economic, technological and social perspectives of the canals should enliven both these topics. |
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| The canal provides a haven for a vast number of birds including ducks, swans and herons. Fish are often visible, as are water voles, but you'll have to be keen-eyed and lucky to spot mink or kingfisher. |
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| Examination of the water would indicate not only smaller forms of life but also levels of pollution and the effect humans have on the environment. (AT2) The canal itself needs looking after. Breeches or bursts can be caused by tree roots or even burrowing mammals. Canals must be cleared of mud, sand, plants and rubbish by dredgers in order to keep it deep enough for the boats to navigate. (AT3) |
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| A 1 hour trip takes us south through Leighton Buzzard. Though we do not pass through a lock, this is a journey through a wide variety of different environments which even many local people never see. | A 2 hour trip takes us north through Leighton Lock to Old Linslade and then back. We pass an old disused swing bridge and go under 3 bridges where the marks from tow lines of horse- drawn narrowboats can still be seen. | A 3 and a half hour trip is as the 2 hour trip but we continue on to the historic Three Locks - a remarkable feet of Victorian engineering - where we turn. Here groups can swap from coach to boat and vice-versa. If pupils wish to disembark to watch the operation of the lock, please add half an hour to the journey time. |
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