Geography explains the past, illuminates the present and prepares us for the future; what could be more important than that? (Michael Palin)

 

Intent

At Burton Pidsea Primary School, we aim to provide a high-quality Geography curriculum that develops children’s curiosity and fascination about the world and the people who live in it. We want pupils to gain a secure understanding of places, environments and the processes that shape our planet, equipping them with the knowledge and skills needed to interpret and understand the world around them.

Our intention is for children to explore both physical and human geography through systematic enquiry, developing their ability to ask questions, analyse information and draw thoughtful conclusions. Pupils learn how the Earth has evolved over time and how human activity continues to influence change.

As a rural school, we recognise the importance of broadening children’s horizons by exposing them to a diverse range of places, cultures and global perspectives. Through their learning, pupils develop an appreciation of different communities and environments, understanding how local, national and global contexts are interconnected.

We also aim to foster a strong sense of environmental responsibility. Children learn about the importance of sustainability and protecting the world for future generations, recognising the role they can play as informed and responsible global citizens.

By the time they leave our school, pupils will have developed the knowledge, vocabulary and critical thinking skills needed to continue their study of geography and to engage thoughtfully with the wider world.

 

Implementation

Our Geography curriculum is delivered using Kapow Primary mixed-age planning, ensuring full coverage of the National Curriculum and clear progression of knowledge and skills across year groups. The mixed-age structure is carefully sequenced to allow children to build on prior learning while deepening their understanding of key geographical concepts over time.

Lessons are planned in coherent sequences that develop both substantive knowledge and geographical skills. Pupils learn to think like geographers by asking questions, interpreting maps, analysing data, comparing places and understanding physical and human processes.

Geography is taught as a discrete subject, with meaningful links made to other areas of the curriculum where appropriate to enrich learning. Wherever possible, we build upon each child’s ‘personal geography’ by exploring our local environment and community. This helps children develop a strong sense of place and understand how their local area connects to the wider world.

Through engaging and enquiry-led learning, pupils develop curiosity about the world, an understanding of diverse environments and cultures, and an awareness of the challenges and responsibilities we share as global citizens.

Impact

By the end of their time at Burton Pidsea Primary School, pupils will have developed secure geographical knowledge and the skills needed to understand the world around them and how it continues to change over time. They will understand key physical and human processes, recognise how places are connected and appreciate the diversity of environments and cultures across the globe.

Children will confidently use geographical vocabulary and skills to explore, interpret and navigate the world around them. They will be able to analyse maps, data and other sources of information, ask thoughtful questions and communicate their understanding clearly.

Through their learning, pupils will develop an awareness of their responsibilities as global citizens. They will understand how their actions can impact the environment and will recognise the importance of protecting the world for future generations.

Assessment summaries are used to monitor curriculum coverage and identify both achievements and next steps in learning. This ensures clear progression in geographical knowledge and skills across the school and supports all pupils in achieving their full potential.

Geography Long Term Plan and Progression of Skills

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