Geography Curriculum Statement

Intent

At Alpha Preparatory School we believe that geography helps to provoke and provide answers to questions about the natural and human aspects of the world. The geography curriculum enables children to develop knowledge and skills that are transferable to other curriculum areas and which can, and are, used to promote their spiritual, moral, social and cultural development. Geography is, by nature, an investigative subject, which develops an understanding of concepts, knowledge and skills. We seek to inspire in children a curiosity and fascination about the world and its people which will remain with them for the rest of their lives; to promote the children’s interest and understanding of diverse places, people, resources and natural and human environments, together with a deep understanding of the Earth’s key physical and human processes. The curriculum is designed to develop knowledge and skills that are progressive, as well as transferable.

Implementation

The geography curriculum is taught in blocks, so that children can achieve depth in their learning. Teachers have identified the key knowledge and skills of each blocked topic and consideration has been given to ensure progression. At the beginning of each topic, children are able to convey what they know already as well as what they would like to find out. This informs the programme of study and also ensures that lessons are relevant and take account of children’s different starting points. Consideration is given to how greater depth will be taught, learnt and demonstrated within each lesson, as well as how learners will be supported in line with the school’s commitment to differentiation. Cross curricular outcomes in geography are identified, planned for, and utilised. Teachers are encouraged to consider opportunities available for fieldwork to enable children to base learning on first hand experiences to enhance teaching and learning in geography.

Impact

Children will have developed the geographical knowledge and skills to help them explore, navigate and understand the world around them and their place in it. They will review their successes in achieving the lesson objectives at the end of every session and are actively encouraged to identify their own target areas. As children progress throughout the school, they develop a deeper knowledge, understanding and appreciation of their local area and its place within the wider geographical context. School trips provide further relevant and contextual learning.

Children’s knowledge and skills will develop progressively as they move through the school, not only to enable them to meet the requirements of the curriculum but to prepare them to become competent geographers.