Geography

Curriculum content

Progression in skills and Knowledge

Intent

Our geography curriculum sparks curiosity about the world starting with pupils’ local environment and expanding to the global stage. Using a question-led, research-based approach, children explore the physical and human features of different locations, comparing similarities and differences across countries and cultures.

Our Geography curriculum enriches pupils’ understanding of both the local and wider community, as well as deepening their knowledge of significant historical events. By linking learning to other subjects, such as English, Science, Numeracy, ICT and Art, we provide a rich, interconnected humanities experience.

Through in-depth studies, pupils broaden their cultural understanding and develop key skills such as research, presentation, collaboration, analysis and clear communication.

Implementation

We follow a skills-based approach focused on three areas:

1. Human and Physical Features

2. Geographical Knowledge

3. Geographical Enquiry

Skills such as observation, analysis and comparison are woven throughout lessons and assessed through case studies and fieldwork. Pupils study locations around the world, investigating the human and physical processes that shape them. They explore their local area, including through Forest School, and compare it to contrasting environments worldwide.

Geography and History units alternate every half-term to meet the breadth of the National Curriculum while allowing skills to be developed over time. Medium-term planning outlines clear objectives, enabling teachers to create engaging, skills-based weekly lessons. Pupils investigate new cultures, reflect on similarities and differences, and develop independence in their work.

Impact

Our humanities teaching develops both knowledge and life skills, inspiring children to explore and care for the world around them. By studying natural and man-made environments alongside human history, pupils gain an awareness of environmental issues, their own carbon footprint, and how they can contribute to a better future. Pupils leave RHS with the curiosity, cultural awareness and skills to engage meaningfully with the world.