Geography

Geography at Whiteknights helps pupils make sense of the world around them, from their local environment to global issues. The curriculum develops knowledge across physical, human, and environmental geography, alongside map skills and fieldwork investigations. Trips, outdoor learning, and expert visitors deepen understanding and bring learning to life. We aim for pupils to leave Whiteknights with curiosity, respect for diversity, and the confidence to discuss geographical issues that shape our world.

 

Geography Whole School Overview

Intent

  • All pupils make strong progress in Geography, developing curiosity about the world and their place in it.
  • Pupils build secure knowledge across the four strands: location knowledge, place knowledge, human and physical geography, and geographical skills and fieldwork.
  • Reading is woven into the curriculum, supporting pupils to access high-quality texts for information and enjoyment.
  • Pupils learn to plan, carry out, and evaluate geographical fieldwork, using maps, observations, and enquiries.
  • Our curriculum is inclusive and adapted to close knowledge gaps, ensuring all pupils—particularly the most disadvantaged—can “Grow in Greatness.”
  • Pupils learn about diverse geographers, significant events, and how geography shapes society, building cultural capital and respect for others.
  • Trips, outdoor learning, and enrichment opportunities bring the subject to life and deepen understanding.

Implementation

  • A clear, well-sequenced curriculum builds knowledge and skills over time, with strong subject vocabulary developed in every year group.
  • Lessons include clear success criteria, modelling, questioning, feedback, and opportunities for discussion and reflection.
  • Retrieval practice, quizzes, and recap activities help pupils secure key knowledge in their long-term memory.
  • Fieldwork and practical learning are central, with pupils applying their knowledge through real-world investigations.
  • Assessment is both formative and summative, with feedback that addresses misconceptions and deepens understanding.
  • Work in exercise books demonstrates progression and empowers pupils to talk about their learning.
  • Enrichment, trips, and expert visitors extend the taught curriculum and inspire curiosity.

Impact

  • Pupils make strong progress in knowledge, skills, and geographical vocabulary, demonstrated in their books, discussions, and fieldwork outcomes.
  • They can confidently talk about geographical concepts, recall prior learning, and make connections across topics.
  • Pupils enjoy the subject, developing motivation and curiosity to learn more about the world.
  • Fieldwork experiences enable pupils to apply knowledge practically and develop independence.
  • All pupils leave Whiteknights ready for the next stage of their education, equipped with a love of geography, respect for cultural and environmental diversity, and the confidence to contribute to discussions about local, national, and global issues.