Marine Biology Field Trip 2023

Over the May half-term, 33 RSFC year 12 Biology students took part in an intensive, hands-on, fully immersive Marine Biology trip to the Field Studies Centre at Millport on the Isle of Cumbrae, Scotland.  

The centre has a rich history as a marine research station, attracting a stream of distinguished scientists and prestigious universities, drawn by the richness of the fauna and flora of the Firth of Clyde. It was founded in 1897 by Sir John Murray, considered to be the father of modern oceanography.  

Local wildlife includes owls, polecats, rabbits, common kestrels and the occasional golden and sea eagle, as well as a large seabird population: northern fulmars, great cormorants, shags, eider ducks, Eurasian oystercatchers, curlews and many more. Other marine life includes common and grey seals, minke whales, basking and porbeagle sharks, porpoise, otters, dolphins, and rare sightings of orca. 

Students particularly enjoyed the early morning seal, porpoise, and bird spotting in Largs Bay. Students developed their sampling skills on rocky and sandy shores and, whilst onboard the research vessel Actinia, explored classification techniques on the abundant mollusc, crustacean, echinoderms (starfish) and sponge marine life found on the seabed. Dr Tytus Murphy (Teacher of Biology) kept a tally of more than 80 identified species over the weekend trip.  

Students also had the opportunity to speak to an experienced marine biology research scientist, Dr Victoria Sleight (Lecturer), who shared her first-hand research, career and life experiences and discussed the courses on offer at the University of Aberdeen.  

Students also developed an understanding of the different time scales involved in the natural processes of primary succession and colonisation by the abundant lichen (pioneer species) through to more advanced seral communities. Students were then able to apply statistical analysis to the data that they collected first-hand. 

The breathtaking scenery provided an enriched environment for students to observe ecological interactions and biological processes of terrestrial and marine ecosystems. For most of the students, this was their first-ever science trip, which will, without a doubt, be one they remember affectionately for a long time.  

Andrew Harrison 

Subject Leader of Biology 

Quotes: 

“The Marine Biology trip to Millport was a blast and I learned so much from it. If you ever get a chance to go on this trip, do not hesitate to take it. You will not regret it! Marine biology is not just a science, it is a way of life. You get to explore the wonders of the ocean, learn about the diversity of life forms, and witness the beauty of nature. It is an eye-opening and exhilarating insight into our environment!”  Anikait Chopra – Year 12 Biology student 

“Such an enjoyable experience: I wish it were longer! I loved the atmosphere and learning in a hands-on way. I feel like I learnt a lot about species on the beaches and birds from the teachers and centre staff. It is an experience I will not forget. It made me appreciate nature even more, and the early morning walks were so lovely even if it was earlier than I'd ever wake up!  

It was also a wonderful place to make friends with people you do not usually see at college - I made a brilliant friend and by the end we were inseparable. Thank you to Lorraine, Laura, Andy, and Tytus, you made the trip brilliant.”  Chloe Carrol Year 12 Student 

"The Marine Biology field trip was a magical, biodiverse and wonderfully educational experience for students and staff. Early morning walks along the Firth of Clyde gifted sightings of harbour porpoises, seals and gannets plummeting into the depths. During the day, students diligently sampled the sea floor, sandy beaches, rock pools and the sandstone coastline, discovering a range of fascinating species such as purple sunstars, periwinkle snails, sea lettuce and scurvy grass. At night, students relished carefully setting up traps for shrews, field mice and moths. It was lovely to see our students look closely, touch and smell the wonders of nature, and be inspired to pursue degrees that focus on uncovering the mysteries of marine life and protecting this underwater world for future generations to also enjoy."  ​Tytus Murphy, Teacher of Biology