News & Headteacher Blogs

On Remembrance Day, Year 12 Geography students visited Greenham Common to support their Human Geography Changing Places unit. They began with a short act of remembrance at the memorial before receiving an engaging talk from volunteers at the Control Tower. Students explored the Common, business park, and Gamma Site, discovering how the area has transformed from a WWII and Cold War U.S. Air Force base to a nature reserve and community space.

As part of the trip, students carried out human geography fieldwork to prepare for their NEA and developed their GIS skills using ArcGIS. Excitingly, filming was taking place near the bunkers, and students were convinced they’d caught a glimpse of Jason Statham! a memorable end to a fascinating day of geography in action!

Mrs Hicks

Head of Geography

 

Greenham Common is a former military airbase located in Berkshire, England. It is now recognised for its Cold War legacy and as an area of public parkland.

Historical Background

Greenham Common was established in 1943 as a Royal Air Force station during the Second World War. It was later used by the United States Air Force from 1951 until 1992. The base played a significant role in NATO’s defence strategy, hosting B-47 bombers, KC-97 tankers, and later Ground Launched Cruise Missiles operated by the 501st Tactical Missile Wing. It featured one of the longest runways in Western Europe, extending over 10,000 feet, and served as a major hub for military operations.

Greenham Common Women’s Peace Camp

In 1981, a group of women from Wales marched from Cardiff to protest against the deployment of nuclear missiles at the base. This action led to the establishment of the Greenham Common Women’s Peace Camp, which became a prominent symbol of feminist and anti-nuclear protest. The demonstration lasted for nearly two decades, making it one of the longest-running peace protests in history and attracting international attention.

Present Day

Following the closure of the base in 1993, the land was returned to public use. Today, Greenham and Crookham Commons encompass nearly 1,000 acres of open heathland and are managed as a public nature reserve. The former control tower has been restored and now operates as a visitor centre and museum, offering exhibitions, a café, and views across the former airfield.