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GPHY 309 Field School in Geography

Mapping Herstmonceux’s Natural & Cultural Heritage

đź“Ť Herstmonceux Castle & Estate, United Kingdom
📅 June 6–21, 2026

Apply Now: Submit a Statement of Interest

Course Description

This field school will take place at in the United Kingdom, and give students practical experience in taking field measurements, recording them using mobile GIS technology, and then analyzing the results in ArcGIS Online. These measurements will include water quality measurements like pH, soil measurements like electrical conductivity, and tree measurements like diameter at breast height. Flights by a UAV will be used to generate 3D models of the landscape across the estate and to estimate vegetation health. 

Along with the measurement of biophysical parameters, the course will also focus on collecting data about the rich cultural heritage resources of the Herstmonceux Estate, which date back centuries before the construction of the castle itself in the 15th century.

Eligibility:
Open to Level 2 students or above with an interest in Physical Geography, Environmental Studies, Environmental Planning, Archaeology, or History

 

 

Why Apply for GPHY 309?

Hands-on Field & GIS Skills

Gain practical experience collecting environmental data, using mobile GIS, and analyzing results in ArcGIS Online and UAV-based mapping.

Work in a Living Cultural Landscape

Study natural systems and cultural heritage together at Herstmonceux Castle, where centuries of history intersect with contemporary rewilding.

Apply Geography in the Real World

Contribute to a Natural Heritage System Plan used by land managers, building teamwork, problem-solving, and applied research skills.

Costs & Accommodation

Program Fee (2026): $4,250 CAD

Includes accommodation (twin rooms), full board, and on-site instruction at Bader College.
Single rooms available at additional cost.

Not included: airfare to/from the UK and Queen’s tuition.

Accommodation | Bader College

Typical Working Day

 

Time Activity
8:00 AM Breakfast
9:00 AM – 12:00 PM Fieldwork
12:00 PM – 3:00 PM Lunch & Break
3:00 PM – 5:00 PM Lab Work
5:00 PM – 7:00 PM Dinner
7:00 PM – 8:30 PM Lectures

Weekend Excursions: June 13–14, 2026
Walking tour of the Pevensey Levels (full day) and a free day / optional excursion to Windmill Hill.

Meet Your Teaching Team

George Bevan

 

PhD | Associate Professor, Geography and Planning

View Dr. Bevan's profile

Carolyn DeLoyde

PhD, RPP, MCIP | Assistant Professor, Geography and Planning

View Dr. DeLoyde's profile

Susan Bazely

 

PhD | Archaeologist

Kristen Jones

 

PhD Candidate, Geography and Planning

View Kristen's profile here

What to Bring

  • Outdoor work clothes

  • Hiking boots

  • Rain gear

  • Hat, sunscreen, bug spray

  • Tablet or smartphone (iOS or Android)

  • Laptop (Windows or Mac)

  • Allergy medications

  • Prescription medications

  • Travel insurance

  • VISAs (for non-Canadians)

  • Personal spending money

Ready to Apply?

Send your statement of interest to:

For learning outcomes and official course details: View the Academic Calendar