Geography

In our small primary school with mixed-aged classes, we are committed to delivering a geography curriculum that is both engaging and flexible, catering to the diverse needs of our pupils. By utilising the Cornerstones Curriculum, we aim to provide a rich and coherent geography education that ignites curiosity, fosters understanding, and encourages exploration of the world. Our approach is designed to inspire pupils at all levels to appreciate and understand their environment through a progressive and integrated learning journey.

Intent

Our intent is to:

1. Engage: We spark pupils’ interest in geography by presenting compelling and interactive content that connects them with their world. We strive to make geography a vibrant and exciting subject, motivating pupils to explore and understand different places, environments, and cultures.

2. Develop: We build a progressive and coherent understanding of geographical concepts from EYFS through to Year 6. Using the Cornerstones curriculum’s structured approach, we ensure that pupils develop a solid foundation in key geographical knowledge and skills, with learning tailored to their developmental stages and needs.

3. Innovate: We encourage pupils to think creatively about geographical issues and explore innovative ways to understand and solve problems related to their environment. We aim to foster critical thinking and problem-solving skills through project-based learning and inquiry-driven activities.

4. Express: We support pupils in articulating their geographical knowledge and insights through various methods. We emphasise the importance of communication in geography, helping pupils present their findings, reflect on their learning, and make connections between different geographical concepts.

Implementation

1. Engage: Captivate and Inspire

• EYFS and Key Stage 1: We introduce basic geographical concepts through engaging activities such as storytelling, maps, and exploration of local environments. The Cornerstones curriculum’s interactive units are designed to stimulate curiosity and make geography accessible through hands-on activities, field trips, and visual aids.

• Key Stage 2: We build on early learning with more complex geographical topics, including global environments, physical and human geography, and map skills. Use the Cornerstones curriculum’s detailed units to explore these concepts through immersive projects, fieldwork, and real-world applications.

2. Develop: Build Knowledge and Skills

• EYFS and Key Stage 1: We focus on developing foundational geographical skills and knowledge, such as understanding maps, recognising local features, and exploring different places. The Cornerstones curriculum’s progression ensures that pupils develop these skills incrementally, laying the groundwork for more advanced learning.

• Key Stage 2: We enhance and extend pupils’ geographical understanding by introducing more detailed concepts and advanced skills, such as geographic data analysis, environmental issues, and cultural studies. The Cornerstones curriculum supports this development with structured lessons and comprehensive resources.

3. Innovate: Explore and Solve

• EYFS and Key Stage 1: We encourage creativity and exploration through activities that allow pupils to investigate their environment, create simple maps, and engage in imaginative play related to geography. The Cornerstones curriculum’s thematic units promote innovative thinking and problem-solving in a context appropriate for younger learners.

• Key Stage 2: We provide opportunities for pupils to tackle real-world geographical problems and conduct independent research. We also encourage innovative approaches to understanding and addressing issues such as climate change, urbanisation, and conservation through project-based learning and collaborative activities.

4. Express: Articulate and Reflect

• EYFS and Key Stage 1: We support pupils in expressing their geographical knowledge through drawings, simple reports, and oral presentations. The Cornerstones curriculum emphasises reflection and communication, allowing pupils to share their learning and understand their impact on the world.

• Key Stage 2: We develop pupils’ ability to communicate complex geographical ideas effectively through written reports, presentations, and discussions. We encourage reflective practices that help pupils assess their learning and articulate their understanding of geographical concepts and issues.