Geography

Geography is the study of our physical and human environment, the processes which shape our world and the people who live in it. It is a crucial subject that helps pupils understand their links with, and effects on, the natural world and their links with other people in the wider world.  It provides a key context in which to involve pupils with environmental sustainability and help them to grow up as responsible citizens.  It is supported at The Haven School by the belief that God is our Creator and that as human beings we have responsibility to be good stewards of his creation. 

Through the teaching of Geography children are encouraged to analyse the world around them from a physical and a human perspective and to appreciate the interdependence of the physical environment and human development.         

Children need to be prepared for a life where they will live and work with a variety of people. Geography can help them to develop positive attitudes to different cultures.

The objectives of Geography are;

1. to develop the skills which enable them to find out about places
2. to develop a sense of their own identify and place in the world through knowing about the features and character of places, contrasts and relationships between places and how people live in them
3. to develop an understanding of the patterns and physical and human processes which enable us to make sense of places
4. to develop an “informed concern” about environmental relationships and issues
5. to understand our place in the world (The Haven in Eastbourne – Curriculum Intent)
6. to build and use vocabulary (Language-Rich Learning – Curriculum Intent)
7. to appreciating the wonder which can be inspired by both natural and man-made environments

Early Years Foundation Stage

Children start on their Geography education journey in the Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS). Geography is taught as part of Understanding the World. During the Reception year, the children will read a variety of texts, explore the school grounds, learn about maps and places and take part in practical, skills-based activities. They will also begin to acquire some of the geographical vocabulary that they will build on through the rest of their schooling.

Key Stage One and Two

Geography in Key Stage One is based upon the National Curriculum. Pupils develop knowledge about the world, the United Kingdom and their locality. They will understand basic subject-specific vocabulary relating to human and physical geography and begin to use geographical skills, including first-hand observation, to enhance their locational awareness.

In Key Stage Two, pupils extend their knowledge and understanding beyond the local area to include the United Kingdom and Europe, North and South America. This includes the location and characteristics of a range of the world’s most significant human and physical features. They will develop their use of geographical knowledge, understanding and skills to enhance their locational and place knowledge.