Skip to main content

Geology

With rocks that span 600 million years, Arran showcases a remarkable variety of sedimentary, metamorphic and igneous geology. Accessible along the island’s breath-taking coastline, students will have the unique opportunity to walk through millions of years of Earth’s history. We take pride in delivering an invaluable, hands-on field experience in the islands newly accredited UNESCO Global Geopark.

“Tutors are well trained to deliver effective field studies in difficult conditions and rough terrain which is of huge benefit to lone geology teachers” Liz Richards, Geology Lecturer, Coleg Sir Gar

Engaging Fieldwork from Cambrian to the Tertiary

Geology Course PDF-course sheet- geology (2)

Sedimentary

  • Use a compass clinometer and learn how to record strike and dip data in the field
  • Investigate age relationship. What better place to learn about geological principles than at the unconformity first discovered by James Hutton, the father of modern geology?
  • Learn how to complete an accurate Field sketch and field log on a walk-through time.
  • Collect paleocurrent data to bring ancient deposition environments to life.

Metamorphic

  • Record and map fold data in Dalradian meta sediments.
  • Investigate regional metamorphism along Arrans coastline (under the watchful eyes of our resident seal colony!).

Igneous

  • Investigate the cross-cutting relationship with dykes faults and sediments in a mapping exercise
  • Visit Arrans most impressive igneous feature- Drumadoon sill!
  • Plan and carry out an investigation on crystal size using systematic sampling.