Programmes for Post-primary Schools

"The students are still talking about how much they enjoyed it, and of course the great thing was that they were learning so much while they were having fun. Ecology is becoming a more and more important part of the leaving certificate syllabus, so to be able to cover the fieldwork so comprehensively in one day is invaluable". Anna Walsh, Sutton Park School.

A complete range of fully guided field studies courses is available for post-primary schools visiting Killarney National Park. All courses are closely based around the curriculum (and past examination questions where appropriate) and are designed to allow the student to practice a variety of field techniques and to illustrate key concepts of ecology.

Courses are available all year round and generally run from approximately 10.30am-2.30pm each day, although times can be adjusted to suit your school. Cork and Limerick are conveniently within range for day trips, and hostel accommodation is available should you wish to stay for longer.

Examples of courses on offer include:

Leaving Certificate Habitat Study* - A detailed study of a localised sandstone/limestone transition is made using baseline mapping in order to examine the vegetation present on each rock type. Transects and quadrats are also used to assess the effect of shade on ground plants (including measurement of relative humidity, light intensity, soil depth etc.). In a separate part to the day, Longworth small mammal traps (which have been left out overnight) will be checked, any captured animals will be examined and released, and a full explanation of capture/recapture technique will be made.

Leaving Certificate/Junior Certificate Glaciation Study - This trip through Killarney's lakes by traditional boat and through the Gap of Dunloe by foot forms an ideal study tour for all aspects of the geology and glacial geography of the area (cost of boat trip extra).

Leaving Certificate Geography Fieldwork - This day is structured specifically to leave the student well prepared to answer the fieldwork question in the Leaving Certificate examination. It involves the mapping (and further study, including soil testing etc.) of an area of limestone bedrock overlain by morainic sandstone and the survey and plotting of a profile of a typical limestone 'reef'.

Transition Year National Park Management Day - This day takes the form of an audio-visual show followed by a guided walk, during which time the group will have many opportunities to see and understand the dilemmas which must be confronted for the effective land management of an area such as a National Park. The day is intended to stimulate discussion and debate amongst the students, and formal fieldwork exercises do not form part of the day, but can be included if desired.

Transition Year Habitat Study - The students will examine one habitat in depth by using a range of field techniques. Habitats available include bogland, woodland and freshwater.

Junior Certificate Ecology Day* - We use several different fieldwork techniques to examine a woodland habitat and the associated flora and fauna. In doing so, core concepts of ecology are introduced and illustrated. A typical day will include the use of quadrats, transects, pooters, beating trays, Longworth small mammal traps, measurement of environmental factors etc..

Introduction to Ecology - This course deals with simple ecological concepts and techniques as well as introducing the student to several different Irish habitats. It is aimed at students in their first or second year of secondary education whose experience of ecology and habitats is limited.

*The standard course on offer is woodland based in order to facilitate the closest and most convenient link with the curriculum, however the day can also be adapted for a bogland or aquatic habitat if desired.