Geography

Who has the best wellies? Hands up!

Geography surrounds us. Since the turn of the twenty-first century, people are becoming more aware of the impact man has had on the environment. With climate change, globalisation and immigration at the forefront of national debate, it is clear why Geography has a vital role in your child’s learning.

Geography is compulsory from UIII (Year 7) to UIV (Year 9). During these important years we aim to enthuse the pupils with exciting topics that incorporate the skills needed for GCSE and beyond. The units covered include: Natural Hazards, Coastal Processes and Landforms, Pressures on National Parks, Population and the Emergence of China and Microclimates. We encourage a mix of modern teaching methods which regularly include independent enquiry, debate, groupwork and PowerPoint presentations given by the girls. These skills not only lend themselves well to the GCSE and A Level but to life in general.

At GCSE (AQA) the girls participate in a course which broadens and deepens their previous knowledge and skill base. Units include: Weather, Tectonics, Rivers, Settlement, Development and Industry. Fieldwork is essential for the girls to observe and learn in a hands-on environment. 25% of the GCSE is based on a piece of coursework which is centred on primary data. Using the skills established in the first three years, the pupils successfully produce a project based on their findings. With support and good time management the girls find the task very rewarding. The coursework also complements the strong emphasis on ICT within the department. There are digital projectors in all classrooms and the pupils are encouraged to produce work using a variety of applications.

Geography in the Sixth Form is challenging and exciting. The AS course (Edexcel B) builds upon the GCSE with the added flavour of environmental management. Decision-making plays a central role to the course which includes units based on Changing Landforms and their Management and Managing Human Environments. Again, coursework is integral, but after the experience of GCSE they are prepared for the challenge. A weekend residential course to the North Downs affords the girls the opportunity to learn ‘in the field’ and improve their teamwork skills. The A2 course has compelling content. A strong emphasis is placed on research, which is invaluable as preparation for university. Students complete a research report based on an area of Geography that interest them, from Development and Disparity to Health and Welfare to Feeding the World’s People. Their choice can also complement other A Level subjects and support their UCAS application. A significant proportion of the pupils go on to study Geography at degree level, therefore to prepare the pupils we have a university preparation program with an emphasis on Oxbridge entrance. The Global Challenge Unit covers global challenges such as Atmospheric Processes, Ecosystems, Population and Economy. The course culminates in a Synoptic Paper which is a decision-making exercise drawing together all the units.