Geography

At St James C of E Infant and Nursery School, our intent is that our curriculum will encourage curiosity, fascination and knowledge of the world around them that will remain with them for life. The curriculum is planned and sequenced so that new knowledge and skills build on prior learning, and is incorporated across the curriculum where possible.

We are very fortunate in our school to live so close to not only the coast; with our school overlooking the Solway Firth, but also being located very near the Lake District. This enables our children to gain lots of experiences allowing them to deepen their geographical skills through first-hand observations in our local area.

In the Foundation Stage children will develop a wider knowledge and understanding of the world around them. Pupils will learn through first-hand experiences, to explore, problem solve, predict, think critically, make decisions and talk about the people, objects and changes in their environments. They will explain the similarities and differences between our country and others, using stories, non-fiction texts and maps to help with their understanding.

As they progress through Key Stage One, children will develop their knowledge and understanding about the United Kingdom, their own locality and the world. They should understand basic subject specific vocabulary and begin to use geographical skills. They will learn how to use maps, atlases and globes, as well as compass directions. The children will also study seasonal and daily weather patterns in the United Kingdom, as well as hot and cold areas of the world in relation to the Equator and the North/South Poles. 

The Curriculum Intent for geography can be summarised in these key ways:

· A learner-centred teaching approach to ensure learners deepen their thinking. Learning is role modelled appropriately and pupils are challenged and engaged as they meet the National Curriculum expectations for geography.

· Using the Building Learning Power approach, our pupils will explore opportunities to question and deepen their geographical enquiry skills, revise previous learning, collaborate with others during fieldwork activities and persevere during tasks they find difficult. 

· Lessons that inspire curiosity and a fascination about the world  we live in and the diverse people who inhabit it.

· Children will have opportunities to experience learning outside the classroom. 

· To develop an understanding of places and environments. Children will learn about their local area and then compare it to other regions in the UK and the rest of the world.

· Children will be introduced and  encouraged to use a wide range of  geographical  knowledge and vocabulary .

· In each year, previous knowledge, skills and understanding will be re-enforced and further developed.

Our subject leader for Geography is Mrs Emma Butterworth.