Geography

Our Intent

Why is Geography important? Why does it matter?

In Geography across Key Stage 1 and 2, learners gain knowledge about the world, helping them to deepen their understanding of the interaction between physical and human processes. Learners become familiar with vital concepts such as place, scale and sustainability. This provides them with opportunities to consider similarities and differences.

Our children learn Geography because it helps them to understand the world they live in and the roles they can play within it both presently and in the future. As a subject, it develops the skills of evaluation, explanation and critical analysis which equip children to identify how natural processes have shaped human societies and how humans have, in turn, changed the planet.

Throughout this journey, learners develop an understanding of how they and others live and are interconnected. They become curious and fascinated with the world and its people, looking at a range of scales from local to global. Learners become competent in a range of skills through curious enquiry, giving them a strong sense of global citizenship.

How does studying Geography help young people to achieve?

Geography provokes and answers questions about the natural and human worlds, using different scales of enquiry to view them from different perspectives. It develops knowledge of places and environments throughout the world, an understanding of maps, and a range of investigative and problem solving skills both inside and outside the classroom. As such, it prepares children for adult life and employment. Geography is a focus within the curriculum for understanding and resolving issues about the environment and sustainable development. It is also an important link between the natural and social sciences.

As learners study Geography, they encounter different societies and cultures. This helps them realise how much nations rely on each other. It can inspire them to think about their own place in the world, their values, and their rights and responsibilities to other people and the environment.

The Key Learning Intentions for Geography