Leaving school at 3.00 a.m. on a coach to Luton Airport, in winter with A Level geography students on their way to Iceland, was the culmination of a lot of organisation.

As we flew to Iceland the sun came up and then disappeared again as we flew north into Iceland in darkness.

As soon as we boarded our coach, the extreme environment of Iceland was apparent with steam coming out of the ground and looming volcanoes in the background. We went straight to the Bridge between the Continents where it is possible to see the tectonic plates of North America and Eurasia.

The students were amazed as their classroom studies became real. Bubbling mud puddles, hot springs, craters and a guided tour down lava tunnels formed over 5000 years ago completed the day.

The second day started with a swim in the Secret Lagoon just as dawn was breaking, this is a natural geothermal spring. Back on the coach to Gullfoss where a huge waterfall cascades into a narrow canyon. Then on to Geysir for the spectacular eruption of boiling water and steam which erupts every 6 to 8 minutes. After a quick lunch off to Thingvellir National Park.

Third day again starting early, arriving at Skogafoss waterfall. Here it is possible to walk behind the waterfall, although it was rather windy and full waterproofs were needed, it was well worth the soaking. We then travelled on up to the glacier seen up close with smaller ice bergs in the glacial lagoon. The students were totally in awe.

Off again to the black beach seeing coastal landforms but also the power of the waves. Much caution is needed here as the Atlantic swell can sweep up and down the beach with such force. After lunch in the small coastal town Vik, we climbed a small volcano with amazing views of the glaciers, volcanic features, glacial meltwater rivers and the coast all around us. Finally we headed back to the hotel and took a short walk to the local outdoor swimming pool for a swim and enjoyed the geothermal hot tubs under the stars.

This was a brilliant trip, with students really appreciating the awe and wonder of Iceland, making their text book pages come alive.

The students were a credit to the school throughout the trip, and were sad to leave the amazing country, Iceland.