A group of A-level Biology students from Westside school Gibraltar visited the Krka National Park in Croatia as part of a field expedition supported by Kusuma Trust Gibraltar. Operation Wallacea (Opwall) is a global conservation research organisation that conducts biodiversity and climate change research through volunteer-led expeditions in remote locations worldwide.
The students attended the Opwall Research Centre in the Krka valley, a protected site known for its unique biodiversity and unique conservation challenges. The immersive field work experience provided the students the opportunity to apply ecological and conservation theories in a real-world setting. They gained hands-on biodiversity survey experience, developed new field skills, built resilience and contributed to Opwall’s systematic, long-term monitoring in Krka.
“With the support of the Kusuma Trust, our students took part in a transformative expedition to Croatia, gaining hands-on conservation experience, building teamwork and confidence, and being inspired to pursue further studies, careers, and stewardship in science and conservation. As a result of the trip, several students reported being inspired and this has led to further research to inform their UCAS applications. One student is now continuing his learning in this field at university. Students have also signed up to lead Science club sessions based on what they learnt for our KS3 cohort.” – Yvette Mercieca, subject lead Biology, Westside School.