TRIPS // ICELAND on the Hvita River . It is set in a deep canyon , which adds to the spectacle . We also enjoyed the view of an icy glacier north of the river .
In the evening there were high hopes of seeing the Northern lights . We followed an app to guide us about the time of activity in the night sky and managed to see a faint green colour , which quickly passed .
On to the next day we drove to a local Lava Centre close to the Hekla volcano . This was followed by a tour around Hellisheidi Power Station where the students learnt how geothermal energy is used to generate electricity . They shared information about projects involved to reduce the emissions of carbon dioxide and hydrogen sulphide in the atmosphere called Carb Fix and Sulfix . This is a mineralisation process where the gases are captured and dissolved in water and reinjected back into basalt rock . This is left to mineralise forming calcite and pyrite crystals within the basalt . The smell of hydrogen sulphide was particularly unpleasant in this area !
The day ended with time to explore the city of Reykjavik . This started at Iceland ’ s biggest church , designed in 1937 , and is vast in scale . The shape represents the fascinating forms created when lava cools into basalt rock . We then had an opportunity to visit some shops at Laugavegur , cafes and restaurants before having a group photo at the famous Sun Voyager sculpture . This was a most memorable experience for all and many of us hope to return to this country again in the future .
A few quotes from students included , “ It was such an amazing trip and a once in a lifetime experience ” and “ Great fun , good hotels , fun people , great locations .... a fun trip !”. Thank you to the students for being excellent ambassadors for the school .
Mrs McDowell and Mrs Brennan
THE POCKLINGTONIAN 87