Geography

Geography Curriculum Intent Statement

Introduction

At Barrowford School, we believe that a high-quality geography education is essential for our learners to develop a deep understanding of the world around them. Geography allows our pupils to explore the physical and human features of the local, national, and global environment, fostering a sense of wonder, curiosity, and respect for diverse communities and cultures. By embedding our school’s values of respect, inclusion, and diversity throughout our geography curriculum, we aim to equip our learners with the knowledge and skills to become responsible global citizens.

Key Aims

Our geography curriculum is designed to:

• Develop pupils’ knowledge of key physical and human geographical features, processes, and phenomena
• Enable pupils to use a range of geographical skills, including map-reading, data analysis, and fieldwork techniques
• Cultivate pupils’ sense of place and their understanding of how the world is changing, both locally and globally
• Encourage pupils to think critically about geographical issues, consider different perspectives, and propose solutions to real-world problems
• Foster pupils’ appreciation for the interconnectedness of the world and their role as active, engaged citizens

Content and Skills

Our geography curriculum covers a broad range of topics, including:

• The local environment and community
• Contrasting regions within the United Kingdom
• The physical features and climates of different continents
• Human geography, such as population, settlement, and economic activity
• Environmental issues, including sustainability and climate change

Throughout their learning, pupils will develop a range of geographical skills, including:

• Interpreting and creating maps, atlases, and globes
• Gathering and analysing data from primary and secondary sources
• Conducting fieldwork observations and investigations
• Communicating geographical information through a variety of mediums

Progression

Our geography curriculum is carefully sequenced to ensure that pupils build upon their prior knowledge and skills as they progress through Key Stages 1 and 2. In the early years, pupils will develop a strong foundation in locational knowledge and basic geographical concepts. As they move through the primary phase, the curriculum will become increasingly challenging, with a greater emphasis on critical thinking, decision-making, and the application of geographical knowledge to real-world contexts.

Wider Impact

By providing a comprehensive and engaging geography curriculum, we aim to foster our pupils’ curiosity about the world, their sense of responsibility as global citizens, and their appreciation for the diversity of human and physical environments. We believe that the knowledge and skills gained through geography will not only support our learners’ academic progress but also prepare them for the challenges and opportunities of the 21st century.

Download Geography Curriculum Intent Statement (.docx)