Geography

Our principal aim in Geography department is to provide the girls with an understanding of the physical and human environments in which we live and interact. With so many important issues facing our society and our planet, an understanding of Geography is crucial in preparing the girls for life in the 21st century and to help them grow and develop into responsible global citizens.

In designing and selecting our courses we aim to give the girls an understanding of human and physical environments, the interactions between the two, and an appreciation of geographical issues from a variety of viewpoints. At all key stages we use a variety of resources and draw on recent case studies wherever possible. These are updated, as events occur to demonstrate the contemporary nature, relevance and importance of the subject.

Geography lessons are designed to involve the girls actively in tasks, and encourage them to think and learn independently. Activities range from analysing sources such as maps, photographs and news articles, to group role-plays, presentations and model making. We aim to provide a range of learning experiences within each scheme of work to take advantage of the strengths of as many girls as possible. Additional opportunities such as Booster Classes, coursework surgeries and our GCSE Gifted and Talented Programme are provided at various points during the academic year.

We offer a range of field trips to support learning in the classroom. At Key Stage 3, these are day trips to investigate a particular question or issue in the local area, e.g. the impact of tourism or shopping patterns in different sized settlements. Years 10 and 12 attend residential field courses to prepare them for their coursework and field work examinations respectively.

In addition, in conjunction with WBGS we offer an optional field trip to Iceland every 2 years. Another joint trip with WGBS is scheduled for October 2009 with 51 students from both taking part. This is open to any girl in years 11 – 13, although it is aimed at those studying GCSE, AS and A2 Geography and is designed to support their learning by experiencing first hand, the unique environments Iceland has to offer.