Our intent 

At St. Mary’s, we believe that Geography helps to provoke and provide answers to questions about the natural and human aspects of the world. Children are encouraged to develop a greater understanding and knowledge of the world, as well as their place in it. 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 develop knowledge and skills that are progressive, as well as transferable, throughout their time at St. Mary’s and also to their further education and beyond. 

Implementation 

Geography at St. Mary’s is taught in blocks throughout the year, 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 across topics throughout each year group across the school. 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. Cross curricular outcomes in geography are specifically planned for, with strong links between geography and other subjects such as English, Science, Reading and Art lessons identified and planned for. The local area is fully utilised to achieve the desired outcomes, with extensive opportunities for learning outside the classroom embedded in practice. 

Impact 

Outcomes in topic books, as well as other subject books evidence a broad and balanced geography curriculum and demonstrate children’s acquisition of identified key knowledge.  Children also record and summarise what they have learned comparative to their starting points at the end of every topic. As children progress throughout the school, they develop a deep knowledge, understanding an appreciation of their local area and its place within the wider geographical context. Children are able to learn about careers related to geography from members of the local and wider community with specialist skills and knowledge, ensuring that they are well prepared for the next steps in their education.