Leven Valley Geography
Our geography curriculum aims to inspire children with a great curiosity about the world around them and to equip them with the knowledge and skills that they need to explore it for themselves!
The curriculum is structured around four key areas:
- Locational Knowledge
- Place Knowledge
- Human and Physical Geography
- Geographical Skills and Fieldwork
There is a clear progression in terms of skills and knowledge, from the Early Years through to Year 6 and we intend that by the end of Key Stage 2, our children have:
- A clear and detailed understanding of the location of places both globally and at home
- An openness and interest in different people, communities and ways of life
- An eye for spotting patterns and noticing trends, and the skills to record their observations
- A fascination for different physical features and how they have been formed
- The skills to navigate, including map and compass work
Geography photos
How is geography taught at Leven Valley?
We firmly believe that geography lessons should bring the world to life for our children. Across all age groups, children have a range of opportunities to experience geography through practical, engaging tasks in the classroom and beyond. We are fortunate that our school is located in such a beautiful and geographically fascinating part of the United Kingdom, and we take every opportunity to get out and explore our surroundings for ourselves.
As a school, we ensure that the children have access to a wide range of books and online resources that link to the geography topics studied in both Key Stage 1 and Key Stage 2. Each term, we receive books from the Cumbria Library Service, which have been carefully chosen to match our current themes. New geographical vocabulary is introduced within each topic, and teachers encourage children to use these new words in their discussion and written work. Key topical vocabulary is highlighted to the children through knowledge organisers in their geography books and on displays throughout school.
What is the impact?
Children enjoy geography at Leven Valley and leave school being able to speak confidently about their geography learning, skills and knowledge. Due to the careful progression of skills and knowledge, children have a deep understanding of the Earth’s key physical and human processes, and can use geographical vocabulary accurately in their work. They are able to make relevant links from geography to other curriculum subjects, such as history and science, and develop strong skills of enquiry. They have a great inquisitiveness about the world around them, and their impact on the world. We think it is crucial that all children realise that they have choices to make in the world, and are able to develop a positive commitment to the environment and the future of the planet.