Geography
Intent
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At St. Nicholas-at-Wade Primary School, we believe that all pupils deserve a fully rounded curriculum to become confident, independent, lifelong learners. Our curriculum intent is centred around the following drivers, which are fully embedded across all subjects:
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At St Nicholas at Wade Primary School, our geography curriculum is crafted to spark pupils' curiosity about the world around them, fostering a lifelong appreciation for this fascinating subject. We believe that geography is not just about learning locations and facts; it's about understanding our place within the world.
We aim to develop geographical knowledge by ensuring that our pupils acquire a solid understanding of fundamental concepts. They will learn about key themes such as location, place, human and physical processes, and how these elements interact with the environment. Our goal is to empower them with the knowledge to navigate and interpret the complexities of our planet.
Promoting critical thinking is at the heart of our approach. We encourage pupils to scrutinise geographical issues and apply their analytical skills to data, maps, and real-world scenarios. By engaging with these elements, they will start to grasp the impact of human actions on the environment, preparing them to address the challenges of tomorrow.
Moreover, we take pride in nurturing global citizenship. It's crucial for our pupils to develop a sense of responsibility toward our planet and our global community. We emphasise the importance of sustainability and respect for cultural diversity, encouraging them to see the interconnectedness of the world.
Our curriculum is intentionally designed to be inclusive and engaging, meeting the diverse needs of all our pupils. It's meticulously aligned with the National Curriculum, ensuring that we not only meet educational standards but also inspire and motivate our learners. By embedding these principles into our teaching, we aim to create not just informed individuals but responsible stewards of the Earth.
Given our beautiful countryside setting, we recognise that many children may not have had opportunities to venture beyond their immediate surroundings, especially in recent times. Our school grounds, teeming with nature, serve as an excellent base for engaging outdoor learning. This is complemented by our Forest School sessions, where we create a natural link to their learning. Ultimately, we strive to instill a sense of wonder and responsibility in each child, empowering them to become informed and caring global citizens.
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"An understanding of the natural world is a source of not only great curiosity, but great fulfilment." David Attenborough |
Implementation
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At St Nicholas at Wade, we believe that geography is essential for nurturing informed, active citizens who understand and care for the world around them. To realise our intent, we implement a dynamic and varied geography curriculum that includes: We have crafted a Sequential Learning Progression that allows pupils to build their geographical knowledge and skills progressively, starting from Early Years and continuing through Key Stage 2. This structure ensures that students cultivate a broad range of competencies, preparing them for future learning while achieving clear endpoints through the application of substantive and disciplinary knowledge. Our approach to Enquiry-Based Learning revolves around compelling geographical questions, encouraging pupils to undertake enquiries that promote independent thinking and creativity. This method enables them to discover and construct knowledge through research, discussions, and hands-on activities, fostering a deeper understanding of geographical concepts. Central to our geography programme are Fieldwork Opportunities. We regularly engage pupils in practical experiences, connecting them with their local environment and allowing them to apply their learning in real-world contexts. This hands-on approach not only makes learning more engaging but also deepens their appreciation for their surroundings. We also value Cross-Curricular Connections, weaving geography into subjects such as history, science, and the arts. This interconnection enriches their understanding of the world and highlights the relevance of geographical studies in everyday life. To keep up with modern advancements, we incorporate Use of Technology, utilising digital tools and resources like GIS software and online mapping platforms. This helps enhance learning experiences and equips pupils with the skills to navigate contemporary geographical tools. Finally, we engage in Assessment for Learning to ensure pupils retain key concepts, or 'sticky knowledge'. We place a special emphasis on providing suitable provisions for students with special educational needs (SEN), ensuring that every child can thrive. |
In alignment with our commitment to the environment, we aim to help restore nature through initiatives like the 'Wilder Kent Awards', and we celebrate ‘Earth Day’ every April. With the support of our school ECO INFLUENCERS, we inspire pupils to become reflective members of society who actively invest in protecting the planet.
Impact
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At St Nicholas at Wade Primary, we take pride in the impact of our geography curriculum, which shines through in various ways. Our students engage with thought-provoking questions during class, participate in lively discussions, and showcase their understanding through their work. We place great importance on pupil voice, as we regularly recap what they've learned, ensuring that knowledge sticks—what we like to call 'sticky knowledge'. Monitoring our pupils’ journey is vital, and we utilise the Curriculum Maestro system to track their progress, which informs our future teaching plans. By the end of each key stage, we ensure that our pupils are well-equipped with the essential knowledge and skills they need to move forward. |
By the time they leave St Nicholas-at-Wade, our children will have developed a rich understanding of the world—both local and global—and their role within it. We strive to inspire them to be passionate geographers who view the world with respect and appreciation, ready to make a positive impact on their communities and beyond.
Subject leaders evaluate the impact of our curriculum through dedicated 'Subject Weeks'. During these weeks, leaders engage in a comprehensive examination of their subjects, which includes book scrutiny, observing teaching, tracking planning, and conducting pupil conferencing. This thorough approach enables leaders to ascertain the effectiveness of the planned curriculum in enhancing pupils' knowledge, understanding and outcomes in line with the endpoints. The process provides a 360-degree perspective on the intent behind the curriculum, allowing leaders to make informed decisions and strategically plan for subsequent steps to optimise educational outcomes for all students