Geography

The KS3 curriculum is constructed as a spiral curriculum, with sequencing designed to ensure that important topics, ideas and skills are revisited throughout the key stage.  This approach helps build a strong foundation of geographical knowledge as students move through the school.  The KS3 curriculum provides a healthy balance between physical geography, human geography, fieldwork and decision‑making skills.  The structure and content draw on guidance and thinking published by the Geographical Association around the “Big Ideas” in Geography.

In Year 7, students develop a strong geographical foundation by exploring key themes such as scale, place and change.  The curriculum is designed to introduce core ideas and inspire curiosity about the world, allowing learners to build confidence through familiar and accessible contexts.  Topics include Earth’s Story, which gives students a broad introduction to how our planet and life on it have changed over time, and The Best of the British Isles, where students explore the physical and human geography of the UK and Ireland through maps, patterns and contrasts.

Geography in Year 8 aims to build on the foundations established in Year 7 and introduce students to geographical issues and perspectives at a global scale.  The units studied this year develop students’ understanding of global challenges and the diversity of places and environments.  Through enquiries such as “Is it time to declare a climate crisis?” and “Why do the coldest places matter in a warming world?”, students investigate both physical and human processes shaping our changing planet.  The study of the USA provides a rich place‑based example that brings together key elements of physical and human geography, as well as aspects of economic development.  By examining a single country through multiple lenses, students learn to connect processes, patterns and perspectives, developing a deeper understanding of how geography operates at different scales.

Geography in Year 9 aims to encourage students to question the world around them and to think critically about global issues.  The curriculum builds disciplinary knowledge through themes inspired by Factfulness by Hans Rosling, helping students understand the importance of evidence‑based thinking and challenging common misconceptions about global development.  Sustainability forms a central concept mid-way through Year 9, enabling students to consider environmental, social and economic futures.  Students also explore the evolving nature of the subject by examining ideas surrounding the Anthropocene and what this means for the future of geography.

Year 7

• Earth’s Story
• The Best of the British Isles
• UK Coasts
• UK Weather

Year 8

• The Climate Crisis
• The USA
• The Himalayas

Year 9

• The Power of the Planet
• Perceptions of our Planet
• Sustainable management of the Oceans
• Extreme Environments
• The Anthropocene and the Future of Geography

Specification – AQA – Geography (8035)

Who this course is suitable for

This course is perfect for students who are curious about the world and want to understand the connections between people, places, and environments. Whether you’re interested in natural landscapes, urban development, or environmental conservation, this subject offers something for everyone.

What you will learn

GCSE Geography is divided into three units:

• Unit 1: Living with the Physical Environment. Explore natural hazards such as earthquakes, volcanoes, and tsunamis, and study climate change, ecosystems, coasts, and rivers.
• Unit 2: Challenges in the Human Environment. Examine urban issues, development, and the challenge of resource management. Focus on resource management, including energy, and gain insights into societal changes in cities like London and Rio de Janeiro.
• Unit 3: Geographical Applications. Engage in a decision-making exercise using a resource booklet. Develop advanced geographical skills to analyse and evaluate issues. Develop fieldwork and geographical skills through real-world investigations.

How you will learn

Learning in Geography is varied and interactive. You will:

• Conduct fieldwork to investigate issues like river processes in Beddington Park and urban development in East London.
• Use modern mapping tools (GIS), interpret photographs, and analyse articles to develop a well-rounded perspective.
• Participate in debates, group projects, and decision-making exercises.
• Apply numeracy skills to interpret data, construct graphs, and analyse statistics.
• Boost your memory with techniques for recalling key case study information.
• Optional trips, such as a visit to Iceland, will provide hands-on experiences, including hiking volcanoes, exploring glaciers, and bathing in geothermal pools.

What you will need to bring

You will need an exercise book, colouring pencils, a ruler and a calculator. Comfortable clothing and sturdy footwear for outdoor investigations and an inquisitive mindset will enhance your experience.

How you will be assessed

Assessment is through three components:

• Unit 1 (35%) Written exam assessing natural hazards, climate, ecosystems, coasts, rivers, and geographical skills.
• Unit 2 (35%) Written exam focusing on urban issues, development, resource management, and geographical skills.
• Unit 3 (30%) A decision-making exercise, fieldwork questions based on familiar and unfamiliar fieldwork, and geographical skills.

Where next

GCSE Geography opens pathways to A-level Geography and other related subjects. It supports careers in environmental science, urban planning, international relations, conservation, and cartography. The skills you develop—critical thinking, data analysis, teamwork, and problem-solving—are highly valued in a wide range of fields, making geography a versatile and rewarding choice.

Specification – OCR – Geography (H481)

Who this course is for

This course is ideal for students with a passion for understanding the Earth’s dynamic processes and the impact of human activities on the planet. It suits those who are curious about both scientific processes like climate change and hydrology, as well as societal issues like migration and urban development. This course is recommended for students who have achieved grades 9 to 7 in GCSE (or equivalent) Geography, but a passion for the subject is the most important factor.

What you will learn

A Level Geography offers an in-depth exploration of new and exciting topics, as well as extending your knowledge of key concepts introduced at GCSE level. You will study both physical and human geography, developing research, analytical, and problem-solving skills that are essential for understanding today’s world.

Key areas of study include:

• Physical Systems: Understanding landscape systems, water and carbon cycles, and Earth’s life support systems.
• Human Interactions: Exploring global connections, changing spaces, and human impact on the environment.
• Geographical Debates: Engaging with two contemporary global issues such as the future of food, disease dilemmas, and hazardous earth.
• Investigative Geography: Conducting an independent research project, allowing you to explore an area of personal interest.

How you will learn

You will learn through a mix of classroom lessons, fieldwork, and independent research. The course includes practical opportunities for fieldwork, including a compulsory residential field trip to Spain to develop skills for the non-examined assessment. Fieldwork helps you to apply geographical theories to real-world scenarios. You will have access to a dedicated Geography resource area with a library and ICT suite.

What you will need to bring

A curiosity about the world and a willingness to engage in both physical and human geographical studies are essential. You will also need to take part in fieldwork activities, so appropriate outdoor clothing for field trips is required. A notebook and a calculator will be helpful for data collection and analysis.

How you will be assessed

The course is assessed through a combination of written exams and coursework:

• Component 1 (Physical Systems): 22% of the A Level, 1-hour 30-minute written exam.
• Component 2 (Human Interactions): 22% of the A Level, 1-hour 30-minute written exam.
• Component 3 (Geographical Debates): 36% of the A Level, 2-hour 30-minute written exam.
• Component 4 (Investigative Geography): Independent coursework based on fieldwork, a 3,000-4,000 word report (20% of A Level).

Where next

A Level Geography is highly regarded in Higher Education, recognized as a part-STEM subject and often paired with Science, Mathematics, Economics, Business and the Humanities. Geography students develop a broad set of skills, making them attractive to universities and employers in sectors such as environmental science, law, politics, finance, research, and urban planning. Geography offers flexible career pathways, with graduates working in fields as diverse as business and finance, science and the environment, technology, teaching, government and international development.

Geography at Sutton Grammar School offers students a dynamic and relevant foundation for a wide range of careers. Through the study of both physical and human systems, students develop analytical, research, and problem-solving skills that are highly valued across industries. Geography opens pathways to careers in geoscience, environmental consultancy, climate science, urban planning, and GIS, as well as roles in finance, logistics, data science, and government policy. Our curriculum fosters a global perspective and critical thinking, preparing students to tackle real-world challenges with empathy and strategic insight. The department’s ‘Explore More’ programme enriches learning through field trips, competitions, and talks from industry professionals, helping students connect classroom knowledge with future career opportunities.