The study of geography develops intellectual and practical skills which students put into use every day, both at school and beyond. Geography graduates are highly rated by employers; they currently have one of the highest levels of immediate post-graduate employment of any degree. A geographer has an almost unique historical and contemporary perspective on human life; their understanding of landscape, climate and society, coupled with natural curiosity, produces rational thinkers and problem solvers, of much value to industry, education, and indeed society.
Fieldwork is an important part of the learning process, and teaching is lively and invigorating. Every pupil in the first three forms is taught geography, and there is a strong emphasis on geographical skills and a sense of place. During the first three years, pupils follow a pathway to develop their grasp of human interactions with our physical environments.
The subject is very popular at GCSE level, being offered all three option groups. The department follows the AQA specification, focusing on Physical Geography in the Fourth Form and Human Geography in the Fifth Form. Relevant fieldwork takes place early in Fifth Form.At A level, we follow the Edexcel specification, which contains Physical units on Tectonics, Coasts, Water Insecurity and Energy Security. As well as Human units on Globalisation, Regeneration, Superpowers, Health and Human Rights and a synoptic focus on Geographical Issues. Fieldwork and skills are an important part of study in both years and a wide range of visits, day and residential, are offered to support the Independent Investigation, which contributes 20% of the final grade.
Throughout their time with the department, pupils are encouraged to regard geography as an ongoing natural process rather than a classroom specific activity.