In July, Fourth Form students embarked on an exciting engineering-themed trip. This year’s itinerary took the group westward, with a strong focus on the work and legacy of Isambard Kingdom Brunel.
Exploring the STEAM Museum
The first stop was the STEAM Museum in Swindon, dedicated to the history of the Great Western Railway. The group was joined by former RGS Guildford teacher, Dr Patel, who came out of retirement for the occasion. Students explored a range of impressive steam engines, including the rare opportunity to walk underneath one. The museum offered a fascinating insight into the scale and innovation of Victorian engineering.
SS Great Britain and Historical Reflections
Wednesday’s highlight was a visit to the SS Great Britain in Bristol. The ship, a marvel of Victorian design, showcased how large-scale machinery was ingeniously fitted into compact spaces. Students were impressed by the engineering feats on display.
Lunch was enjoyed at MShed, followed by a visit to the exhibit featuring the recovered statue of Edward Colston. The exhibit provided valuable context and also featured a compelling photography display from Ukraine.
Clifton Suspension Bridge Tour
In the afternoon, the group toured the Clifton Suspension Bridge. Students walked across the iconic structure while learning about its design and construction. The bridge served as another example of Brunel’s engineering brilliance.
Coin Minting at the Royal Mint
Thursday’s visit to the Royal Mint offered a hands-on experience in coin production. Each student pressed their own £2 coin in ‘Brilliant Uncirculated’ standard, which uses a higher pressing force for a sharper finish. Staff explained how coin circulation has changed since the pandemic, with fewer coins being newly minted and many still bearing the image of Queen Elizabeth II.
Cardiff and the Brecon Hills
The group then travelled to Cardiff, where students had time to explore the city before heading into the scenic Brecon Hills. The change in landscape provided a refreshing contrast to the industrial and urban sites visited earlier in the week.
Hydroelectric Power and Wildlife Encounters
Friday’s visit to the Rheidol hydroelectric plant highlighted sustainable energy practices. The plant’s integration into the natural environment was particularly impressive. Students also visited a nearby fish farm and butterfly sanctuary, where they encountered a variety of species—including a notably large stick insect that captured their attention.
Beach Football and a Fiendish Quiz
The final stop was Aberystwyth, where students enjoyed free time on the beach, playing football and eating ice cream. That evening, Dr Patel hosted a challenging quiz, testing their knowledge of the week’s activities with obscure and entertaining questions.