Geography 

Intent

At Larkspur Primary School, we strive to provide a high-quality Geography curriculum that inspires curiosity and fosters a deeper understanding of the world. Our intent is to ensure that all pupils:

Develop geographical knowledge and skills: We aim for students to gain a robust understanding of key geographical concepts, including places, people, environments, and interconnections across the globe.

Cultivate a sense of responsibility: We believe in instilling in our pupils a sense of stewardship for their environment, encouraging them to consider sustainability and the impact of human activity on the planet.

Enhance critical thinking and problem-solving skills: Through practical investigations and fieldwork, we seek to develop pupils' ability to analyse information and draw conclusions based on evidence.

Promote cultural understanding: Our curriculum reflects the diverse world in which we live, fostering respect for different cultures and lifestyles, encouraging pupils to appreciate the richness of human experience and geography.

Implementation

Our Geography curriculum is designed to be engaging, interdisciplinary, and skills-focused, following the National Curriculum guidelines while incorporating additional elements to enrich learning:

Curriculum Design: We employ a thematic approach to Geography, where key concepts are revisited and built upon each year. Units are crafted to make cross-curricular links with subjects such as History, Art, and Science, ensuring a comprehensive educational experience.

Active Learning Strategies: We implement a variety of teaching methods, such as outdoor learning, use of technology, and project-based activities. Geography lessons incorporate practical fieldwork where students explore local environments, enhancing their learning through real-world experiences.

Use of Resources: High-quality resources, including atlases, globes, digital mapping tools, and interactive learning platforms, are readily available. We also invite expert guest speakers and organise educational trips to establish connections with our local community and further afield.

Impact

The effectiveness of our Geography curriculum is evidenced through various measures:

Pupil Progress: Regular assessments indicate that pupils demonstrate significant progress in knowledge and skills acquisition. Our tracking system shows that the majority of pupils reach or exceed the expected standards by the end of each key stage.

Engagement and Enthusiasm: Pupil voice surveys and classroom observations reveal high levels of engagement and enthusiasm for Geography. Our students express a genuine interest in learning about the world and actively participate in discussions.

Cultural Awareness: Through diverse geographical studies, pupils exhibit increased cultural understanding and respect for different communities. This is evident in their ability to discuss a wide range of global issues with empathy and insight.

Community Connection: Partnerships with local organisations and initiatives provide pupils with practical insights into geographical challenges faced in their locality, fostering a sense of belonging and community responsibility.

Sustainability Initiatives: Our efforts to teach about environmental stewardship have led to measurable initiatives within the school, such as recycling programmes and eco-clubs, indicating that pupils are actively applying their learning to effect change.

In conclusion, our Geography curriculum is designed with clarity of purpose and a commitment to excellence, contributing positively to the holistic development of every child. We continually strive to refine our approach to ensure the highest quality Geography education, in line with Ofsted's outstanding criteria.

The impact of our Geography curriculum is measured by:

Assessment and Feedback: Formative assessment strategies are utilised throughout the learning process, with ongoing feedback provided to pupils to inform their development. Summative assessments are carried out to measure progress and understanding at the end of each unit.

Professional Development: Staff are engaged in continuous professional development, ensuring they are up-to-date with the latest teaching methodologies and subject knowledge in Geography. Collaborative planning and sharing of best practices among staff lead to a consistently high standard of teaching.