Geography

Vision Statement:

At Washingwell, we want our children to have a curiosity and fascination of the world that will stay with them through their lives. We understand how it has never been more important for children to have a comprehensive global understanding of our world and the peoples and cultures that inhabit it.  Through this understanding, children will develop respect for the physical world and the vast scope of cultures that make up our diverse planet. By expanding their horizons out of the local community, children will gain an understanding of the world: people, places and environments and how they are changing over time.

Our school bases the core work in geography around the National Curriculum which aims to ensure that all pupils:

• develop contextual knowledge of the location of globally significant places – both terrestrial and marine – including their defining physical and human characteristics and how these provide a geographical context for understanding the actions and processes
• understand the processes that give rise to key physical and human geographical features of the world, how these are interdependent and how they bring about spatial variation and change over time
• are competent in the skills needed to:
• collect, analyse and communicate with a range of data gathered through experience of fieldwork that deepen their understanding of geographical processes
• interpret a range of sources of geographical information, including maps, diagrams, aerial photographs and Geographical Information Systems (GIS)
• communicate geographical information in a variety of ways including through maps, numerical and quantitative skills and writing at length

What does geography offer children? How does it enhance the curriculum?

• It allows children to develop an understanding of space and place in relation to local, national and global environments.
• Ability to learn from the environment and shape our future environment.
• Allows children to be active participants and investigators.
• Allows children to learn outside of the classroom through fieldwork, visits and visitors.

What use is it to children in later life? 

• Allows them to use geographical skills in everyday life relating to location, spatial awareness and environmental responsibility.
• Encourages a sense of awe and wonder, stimulating children to continue their learning into adulthood.
• Develops a sense of fulfilment.
• Skills learnt are essential for future career prospects eg Town Planner, Environmental Officer, Teacher etc.