Geography

Geography Curriculum Statement

Intent

At St Augustine’s, we aim to inspire pupils to become curious, informed and responsible geographers who understand the world around them and their place within it. Our geography curriculum is designed to develop pupils’ knowledge of places, people, environments and processes, both locally and globally.

We intend to:

• Develop pupils’ understanding of physical and human geography, including key geographical concepts such as climate, land use, population, and sustainability.
• Foster a sense of awe and wonder about the natural world and an appreciation of the diversity of cultures and communities.
• Encourage pupils to ask thoughtful questions, explore geographical issues, and consider their responsibilities as global citizens.
• Equip pupils with the skills to interpret maps, use fieldwork techniques, and analyse geographical data.
• Promote respect for the environment and an understanding of how human actions impact the planet.

Our geography curriculum supports the development of personal values such as curiosity, responsibility, and respect, and is rooted in our Gospel Values and school motto:
“Unique and United in God’s Love. We let our light shine.”

Implementation

Geography is taught through a progressive and sequenced curriculum that builds knowledge and skills year-on-year. Units are carefully planned to ensure coverage of the National Curriculum and to make meaningful links with other subjects and real-world contexts.

Key features of our implementation include:

• Use of knowledge-rich units that build pupils’ understanding of key geographical concepts and vocabulary.
• Opportunities for fieldwork and outdoor learning, allowing pupils to observe, record and analyse geographical features in their local area.
• Use of maps, atlases, digital tools and data to develop spatial awareness and analytical skills.
• Cross-curricular links with subjects such as science, history and RE to deepen understanding.
• Regular opportunities for discussion, debate and reflection on geographical issues such as climate change, migration and sustainability.

Teachers use high-quality resources and questioning to support pupils in developing their geographical thinking and making connections across topics.

Impact

Through our geography curriculum, pupils at St Augustine’s will:

• Develop a secure understanding of geographical concepts and vocabulary.
• Be able to explain and compare places, environments and processes using appropriate terminology.
• Demonstrate curiosity and engagement with geographical issues, both locally and globally.
• Apply fieldwork and mapping skills confidently.
• Show respect for the environment and an awareness of their role as global citizens.

Assessment is carried out through a combination of ongoing formative assessment, pupil voice, and outcomes in books. Teachers track progress against key objectives, and subject leaders monitor the quality of provision through planning reviews, book studies, learning walks and pupil interviews.