Geography

'The study of geography is about more than places on a map; it's about understanding the complexity of our worlds, appreciating the diversity of cultures that exists across continents.' Barack Obama

At Biddick Primary School, we aim to inspire curiosity, fascination and an appreciation of the wonderful world in which we live that will stay with our children for the rest of their lives. We have a cross-curricular approach to learning; children are fully immersed in an enriching theme-based curriculum while developing essential geographical skills that are progressive, as well as transferable.

Throughout their time with us, children develop a geographical voice and are provided with opportunities to develop their oracy skills by engaging in discussion, debates and oral presentations. We ensure that geography has the same importance as core subjects and our love of reading is embedded throughout our curriculum.

Our geography journey starts in Early Years where our indoor and outdoor provision supports our children in experiencing and understanding the world. Staff facilitate play and curiosity encouraging pupils to imagine and speculate about people, places and environments building the essential foundations for later geographical learning.

As pupil progress through KS1 and KS2, we continue with an active approach to geography which builds on the experience and knowledge acquired in EYFS. Our curriculum ensures that children are doing geography through memorable practical activities, rather than just listening to it. Pupils regularly step outside the classroom and are provided with valuable opportunities to conduct fieldwork and progress in geographical enquiry skills. Our children investigate areas such as the F-Pit, the River Wear at Fatfield and our local village learning how to draw and interpret maps, develop their critical thinking and problem-solving skills, as well as using the skills they have acquired in maths, English and computing to record and present their findings.

By comparing areas in the North-East to the wider world, we increase our children’s knowledge of other cultures, and in doing so, learn to respect differences and continue our spiritual, moral and cultural development- a key component of our geography curriculum. We celebrate World Culture Day for Diversity, events such as Chinese New Year and dedicate time in our curriculum for whole school mini topics based on stories of people and places – ensuring a balance of gender and diversity- which enrich our pupils’ cultural awareness.

Each year, we have a whole school ‘Build a Better World’ unit where we explore current human physical challenges to our planet and teach our children to value their role in ensuring a sustainable future. By the time they leave Biddick Primary School, they have the knowledge and skills to be sustainable, global citizens who respect the world around us.

At Biddick Primary School, we build mutual respect and accept others for their differences. Our enriching geography curriculum is written for all children and promotes an inclusive learning environment. When the curriculum needs adapting, modifications are made by the class teacher- with the support of the SENDCo- to remove barriers and ensure all children can ‘Be the Best that they Be’.

whole school geography progression document cycle a.pdf