The Year 12 IB Biology students recently visited Khao Yai National Park for a field trip that combined academic challenge with memorable experiences. The trip provided students with the opportunity to apply their classroom learning directly to natural environments while developing essential ecological fieldwork skills.

During the visit, students carried out fieldwork across three contrasting ecosystems: grassland, freshwater, and forest. They learned how to use a range of ecological sampling techniques to measure both biotic and abiotic factors. A key focus of the trip was supporting students with their IB Biology Internal Assessments (IAs). Working closely with their teachers and specialist staff, students refined their research questions before spending a full day collecting primary data in the field. It had the intended effect as reflected by student Raichah de Sousa-Hunen, “The Biology trip was a great experience as it enabled us to apply what we had learnt in the classroom to real life.”

Following the fieldwork, students took part in workshops focused on data processing and statistical analysis, with several students beginning their IA write-ups during these sessions. Janya Phlaphongphanich highlighted the impact of working outside the classroom, saying, “Physically being in the environment and working in the field helped me understand my findings more and connect to my research.”

In addition to IA-focused work, students enjoyed a guided nature walk through the park, applying key IB Biology concepts such as succession, feeding relationships and niche theory. One of the highlights of the trip was an evening visit to a bat cave, where students watched an estimated two million bats emerge at sunset — an unforgettable spectacle! Aya Haviv-Buck described this as “a really memorable experience that brought our learning to life.”

Overall, the trip was both academically enriching and highly engaging, offering valuable learning experiences beyond the classroom.