All pupils are taught Geography in Years 7 to 8. A teacher assessment of pupils’ Key Stage 3 Georgraphy skills, knowledge and understanding will take place in May of Year 8. From Year 9 pupils may opt to take Geography at GCSE level.
Geography in Years 7 to 8
Pupils will explore human, physical and environmental patterns and processes through the lens of Geography. Considering our impact on our environment, how our environment develops and changes and similar geographic processes will help pupils to better understand and respect the physical world in which they live.
GCSE Geography from Year 9
At GCSE level pupils will study four main themes: water and landforms, climate and ecosystems, work and development, and people and places. The role of people and their relationship with their physical and human environment will be emphasised in each of these areas. Pupils will create a body of coursework around these themes as they prepare for their final examination.
GCSE assessment
Work will be assessed via coursework and examination. Coursework continues throughout Years 10 and 11, the GCSE examination takes place either in Year 10 or Year 11 according to individual pupils’ progress, learning needs and preference. Coursework accounts for 25% of the available marks (two pieces of coursework, worth 10% and 15% respectively) and 75% of the final mark will be based upon examination results.
Enrichment activities
As Geography explores the world around us, we have some great opportunities to enhance what is learnt in the classroom. Pupils’ education will be punctuated with opportunities to visit places like Lulworth Cove, The Living Rainforest, Stockley Park, the Jubilee River, Wales, local farms and museums.
Beyond GCSE
The school offers AS and A2 level Geography to sixth form students. Geography can also be selected as a subject by those opting to take the International Baccalaureate Diploma.
Beyond school
Geography is a valuable subject. In specific terms it will help students who wish to follow further education and careers in areas such as land management, environmental consultancy and economic development. Because of the understanding of the world around us that comes from geography it can also be constructive in careers such as economics, politics and business.
