Welcome to Geography at St James' Lower Darwen

      

                  

The subject leader for Geography at St James' is Miss Scholfield.

Our Christian Vision for Geography:

Geography at St James’ aims to stimulate pupils’ interest in their surroundings and in the variety of human and physical conditions on the earth’s surface. The teaching of Geography fosters pupils’ sense of wonder at the beauty of the world surrounding them, helps pupils to develop an informed concern about the quality of the environment and the future of the human habitat;

Geography enhances pupils’ sense of responsibility for the care of the earth and its people and secures their commitment to promoting and living sustainable lifestyles. Our curriculum develops pupils’ skills of critical enquiry and an ability to handle and interpret information, through asking and answering geographical questions and using computing to communicate with and explore a variety of people, places and environments across the world. We support pupils to explore values and attitudes about complex issues such as sustainability and sustainable development.

We teach by including a range of places, cultures and environments at a variety of scales, from local to global which will foster a sense of understanding about how we are interconnected and interdependent with other people and ecosystems around the world. All of this is done with God’s creation in mind.

Snapshot of Geography

We are now following the Kapow Geography scheme of work. Careful consideration has been given to ensuring continuity and progression through the programme in terms of knowledge and understanding, geographical skills and conceptual development. Geography begins in the EYFS and throughout a child's journey at St James' your child will explore various topics and enquiry questions to build on their skills that will support them in becoming a  'Geographer'. 

Where Does Geography Begin at St James'?

Reception follow the EYFS framework, which is structured very differently to the national curriculum. It is organised across seven areas of learning rather than subject areas. The most relevant areas of learning linked to Geography are: Mathematics and Understanding the World.

In EYFS, Geography is taught through exploration, curiosity and first-hand experiences that help children make sense of the world around them. Pupils begin to develop an understanding of their immediate environment through play, outdoor learning, stories, maps, photographs and discussion. Children learn about our school, local area and wider world by exploring seasonal change, weather, natural environments and different places and cultures. A focus on positional language during mathematical learning and plays supports children in exploring maps and following directions.

Through meaningful experiences and rich vocabulary, children are encouraged to ask questions, notice similarities and differences, and develop an awareness of people, places and communities beyond their own. Geography in EYFS lays the foundations for children to become inquisitive, observant and respectful global citizens.