Through geography we wish to ensure that all children develop a strong understanding of the physical and cultural differences and similarities between our locality and other places in the UK and the world.

The concept of community is more important now than ever. Since the pandemic we have seen the power of strong communities and we want our pupils to be positive and productive members of the communities they are part of: local, national, online and international. Part of this is understanding the world around them; the differences and similarities between everyone on the planet.

Implementation

At Southwick School, geography is delivered through carefully structured, termly teaching blocks that ensure clear progression in key knowledge, skills, and concepts across all year groups. Each block focuses on developing locational and place-based knowledge, alongside essential geographical skills such as map reading, data interpretation, fieldwork, and critical thinking. Learning is sequenced to build on prior knowledge, enabling pupils to deepen their understanding of both physical and human geography over time.

Our Christian ethos underpins all aspects of the geography curriculum, guided by our core value to “do everything in love.” This is reflected in the way pupils are encouraged to develop respect, compassion, and responsibility towards the world and all who live in it. Through their learning, pupils explore diverse places, cultures, and environments, fostering an appreciation of God’s world and a commitment to caring for it and one another.

Geography is enhanced through meaningful cross-curricular links, allowing pupils to apply their understanding in subjects such as English (through descriptive and persuasive writing), maths (through data handling and interpretation), and science (through topics such as climate, habitats, and environmental change). Opportunities for fieldwork and the study of real-world contexts are prioritised so that pupils can connect their learning to their local area and the wider world.

Enquiry-based learning is central to our approach. Pupils are encouraged to ask questions, investigate, analyse evidence, and draw conclusions about geographical issues. They develop an awareness of global challenges such as sustainability and climate change, and are supported to consider how they can make a positive difference.

Through a combination of structured teaching, practical experiences, and a strong moral and Christian foundation, our geography curriculum at Southwick School equips pupils with the knowledge, skills, and values they need to understand their place in the world and to act as thoughtful, responsible global citizens—always striving to do everything in love.