Geography

Intention

At Abbot’s Hall we are committed to the promotion of Geography. We believe that Geography is about the development of understanding places and the environment throughout the world. This aims to provoke questions and answers that children seek about the natural and human aspects of the world. Children are encouraged to investigate and problem solve both inside and outside of the classroom. As such, it enhances children’s aspirations to “Be The Best You Can Be” and prepares pupils for adult life and employment. It also helps children in their own exploring, appreciating and understanding of the world in which we live and how it has evolved. From this, children recognise their responsibility and understand issues concerning the environment and sustainable development.

The geography curriculum at Abbot’s Hall enables children to develop knowledge that can be transferred to other curriculum areas and assist their social and cultural development. The curriculum shows Geographical knowledge and skills through sequenced lessons and progression through the school, that deepens understanding of the physical and human processes essential for life skills. 

We aim to retain and develop their natural sense of curiosity about the world around them and their community which will remain with them for the rest of their lives. 

Implementation 

At Abbots Hall Geography is taught in units throughout the year, to allow children to achieve an in-depth understanding in their learning. Geography can be linked to other curricular areas such as some History topics, where appropriate, to develop children’s knowledge and understanding, for example maps in the past through DigiMaps. Teachers have identified key knowledge and skills of each unit and planned according to show progression and a systemic approach through the school. Teachers use the national curriculum objectives from their year group or key stage to provide differentiated activities that provides a broad and balanced education for all children. We provide learning opportunities that are matched to the needs of children with learning difficulties. When planning work in Geography, we take into account the targets in the children’s Support Plans and Personalised Opportunity Plans. Existing knowledge is continuously checked at the beginning, during and after a topic throughout each year to provide an embedded approach to learning. 

At Abbots Hall we utilise the school grounds and the local area for field work opportunities as well as working with outside agencies to provide children with first-hand experiences and enhance teaching and learning. Tasks both inside and outside of the classroom are designed to be inclusive and provide appropriate challenges for all learners.

Impact

We hope Geography at Abbot’s Hall allows children to challenge themselves by exploring, navigating and understanding the world around them. This is reinforced by the prospect of reaching aspirations by learning key geographical knowledge and skills that are essential for the community and wider life. From understanding and recognising concerns within the environment, children are able to understand their responsibility as citizens and take action to influence sustainable development. Children progressively deepen their knowledge and skills in school, to not only meet the National Curriculum but to prepare them to become secure geographers in secondary school and beyond.