Geography is an essential part of the curriculum, it provides a means of exploring, appreciating, and understanding the world in which we live and how it has evolved. Geography explores the relationship between Earth and its people through the study of place, space, and environment. It contributes to the cultural, social, spiritual and moral life of children as they acquire knowledge of a range of different cultures and traditions and learn tolerance, respect and understanding of others. This prepares them for their next phase in education and to become global citizens.
Intent
Our curriculum is created to inspire enthusiasm and interest in the world around them. This begins in Early Years: where children learn about St Mary’s school grounds, making decisions about where to locate items; continues in Key Stage 1, as children enjoy learning about Long Newton, the buildings within it and begin to develop an understanding of the human and physical geography of the UK and wider world; and develops in Key Stage 2, as children develop their understanding of other countries, comparing them to their lives in the UK.
As the children learn, they develop key skills to enable them to become and think like geographers. We provide opportunities for children to draw and read maps, using them to help find their way. They use geographical data, such as using heat maps taken over time to understand how the temperature of a region is changing linked to climate change. They use discussion and debate to form their conclusions based on evidence.
Through the Geography curriculum, pupils understand their world and discover how they fit into its ever-changing structure. As David Attenborough said, “The truth is: the natural world is changing. And we are totally dependent on that world. It provides our food, water and air. It is the most precious thing we have and we need to defend it.” Our curriculum ensures our children are aware of the responsibility we share in protecting the environment and respecting the planet and the part they can play in making positive change. This supports our school aims of taking action and being courageous advocates for positive change.
Progression
Our geography curriculum is progressive from when the children start school to when they leave. It builds on knowledge and skills so they are ready for the next phase of their education.
Learning Maps
We have created these learning maps to help support children and parents know what key knowledge is going to be taught in our geography curriculum. They also show how it links to previous and future learning.
