Geography
Geography is a dynamic, interdisciplinary subject that enables pupils to deepen and broaden their understanding of the physical and human environment. Fieldwork provides scope to test theories in real situations and there is an active programme for each year group. Independent learning is encouraged through group work, using information technology (ICT), fieldwork and different class or homework activities. ICT is used to enhance teaching and learning and engage pupils in anything from interactive quizzes to online assessments that can be completed via the school portal. Individual support is offered to all pupils both in and outside lessons.
Many key skills can be developed in Geography through lessons, homework and fieldwork report writing:
- Communication
- Application of number
- Information Technology
- Problem solving
- Working with others
- Improving learning and performance
Results at GCSE, A level and IB have been very pleasing, showing that all pupils can achieve their potential if they are willing to make the necessary effort. The subject is a popular choice and remains a very useful medium through which pupils can gain vital life skills and cultural understanding in an ever changing world.
Middle School
Pupils learn about the following topics:
In Year 7: rocks and landforms, weather and climate, local fieldwork enquiry, Japan.
In Year 8: rivers and river fieldwork, economic activities, development, coasts.
In Year 9: coastal fieldwork, tectonics, sustainable tourism, world cities.
In addition to teacher led assessment, pupils are encouraged to self- and peer-assess work and to become informed learners through the process.
Upper School
At GCSE, pupils are examined through two papers and coursework. Pupils complete a piece of practice coursework following a visit to St. Albans. They are given all the necessary help to complete their fieldwork investigation and report based on their own choice of topic.
Paper 1 consists of mapwork skills, rivers, rocks and tectonics.
Paper 2 consists of population, industry and managing resources, and tourism.
In 2007 81% of pupils achieved a Grade A or A* at GCSE.
A Level
AS level comprises a physical and human paper together with a personal fieldwork enquiry. There is a week-long residential fieldtrip to an established field studies centre where pupils are able to further their understanding of the physical and human environment.
Pupils complete a mixture of individual and group assignments, from explaining the development of granite landforms to contrasting models of urban structure with real urban forms.
At A2, human and physical papers examine the significance of processes in shaping physical landforms and in contributing to human systems and societies.
International Baccalaureate
IB Geography is offered at both Standard and Higher Level and falls within Group 3 of the IB options.
Pupils complete Core and Optional papers - the extent of which depends on the level they have taken. A personal enquiry is undertaken where pupils are supported in completing investigations with a focus on hypotheses testing. Year 12 IB and AS pupils both go on the residential field trip.
Topics include rivers, coasts, lithospheric hazards, globalisation, population and migration.
Small group teaching and focused support are among the hallmarks of pupil success for pupils taking both AS/A2 and IB.
