Geography

Our Geography Overview

Our Geography Policy

Geography at Drighlington Primary School

At Drighlington Primary, we want our children to understand the world around them and their place within it. Through geography, children learn about different places, people and environments, helping them to become thoughtful, informed and responsible global citizens.

We encourage children to be curious about the world—both locally and globally—and to understand how their actions can make a difference. Geography helps children to develop a sense of responsibility for the environment and an awareness of how we can protect our planet for future generations.

“Geography underpins a lifelong conversation about the earth as the home of humankind.” – The Geography Association

 

What does geography look like in our school?

Geography is taught through engaging topics that allow children to explore the world in depth. Lessons are designed to build knowledge step by step, helping children to develop a strong understanding over time.

In lessons, children:

  • Learn about their local area, the UK and the wider world
  • Explore physical geography (such as rivers, mountains and weather)
  • Learn about human geography (such as cities, trade and how people live)
  • Develop map skills and learn how to navigate and interpret maps
  • Use geographical vocabulary to describe and explain what they see

We also help children understand that they can be geographers. They learn that the skills they are developing—such as observing, analysing, researching and problem-solving—are used in real-life careers.

Children are introduced to jobs such as:

  • Environmental scientists
  • Town planners
  • Travel and tourism roles
  • Meteorologists (weather experts)
  • Conservationists and sustainability experts

As they move through school, children develop the confidence to explore and understand the world like real geographers.


What do children learn about?

Children study a wide range of topics, including:

  • Their local area and how it has changed over time
  • Different regions of the United Kingdom
  • Countries and continents around the world
  • Climate zones and environments
  • How people live in different parts of the world
  • Important physical features such as rivers, mountains and oceans

We make sure children learn about a diverse range of places and cultures, helping them to understand and respect the world’s differences.

Learning beyond the classroom

We believe geography is best experienced first-hand wherever possible.

Throughout the year, children have opportunities to:

  • Take part in local fieldwork and explore the area around school
  • Go on educational visits linked to their learning
  • Use maps and real-life data to investigate places
  • Take part in practical activities that bring geography to life

These experiences help children to make real connections and deepen their understanding.

                                              

Each class, from Nursery to Year 6 is named after a country. To develop their cultural capital, children study the location, culture as well as some aspects of the language of their year group countries. 

Why geography matters

Geography helps children to:

  • Understand the world around them
  • Learn how people and places are connected
  • Develop an awareness of environmental issues
  • Think about how their choices affect the planet
  • Build curiosity and respect for different cultures

        

Our geography curriculum is enriched by educational visits, which provide further relevant and contextual learning. Children review their successes in achieving the lesson objectives at the end of every session and are actively encouraged to identify their own target areas. 

                                            

Our aim

We want every child to:

  • Be curious about the world
  • Understand their role as a global citizen
  • Care about the environment and sustainability
  • Feel confident exploring and learning about different places

How you can help your child at home

Partnerships with parents and carers is an important part of Drighlington Primary School. Working closely with parents enables us to ensure parents feel confident that their child is safe, well looked and is receiving a high quality education during their school hours.  The links below offer a range of resources that may also be useful to families.

http://www.kidsgeo.com/

https://www.nationalgeographic.com/

https://www.kids-world-travel-guide.com/

http://www.ducksters.com/geography/

http://www.geography4kids.com/ 

Places to visit 

Oakwell Hall (free of charge) https://www.kirklees.gov.uk/beta/museums-and-galleries/oakwell-hall.aspx

Rodley Nature Reserve http://www.rodleynaturereserve.org/

Cromwell Bottom Nature Reserve http://cromwellbottom.blogspot.com/

Malham https://www.malhamdale.com/

East Coast https://www.visitwhitby.com/

 Further support and useful weblinks

Early Years Development Matters

Birth to 5 Matters

https://www.gov.uk/government/collections/national-curriculum

http://www.bbc.co.uk/education/subjects/zcdqxnb

http://www.bbc.co.uk/education/subjects/zbkw2hv