Milnthorpe Primary School

Developing geographical skills is the focus of geography lessons at Milnthorpe Primary School. Geography opens the minds of children to the wider world; other peoples, diverse cultures and an appreciation of the world in which we live.

Geography encourages respect for other ways of life and instills an understanding for the need of an equitable society and careful use of the world's resources. 

Intent

Through Geography, pupils at Milnthorpe are able to explore the relationship between the Earth and its people through the study of place, space and environment. In Geography, pupils in our school will gain locational knowledge and understand how and where people fit into Earth’s overall structure. We intend for children to become passionate and knowledgeable about our local community and beyond, learning through experiences in practical and fieldwork activities.  The geography curriculum at Milnthorpe enables children to develop knowledge and skills that are transferable to other curriculum areas and which can be used to promote their spiritual, moral, social and cultural development. 

Geography is, by nature, an investigative subject, which develops and understanding of concepts, knowledge and skills.  We seek to inspire in children a fascination with the world and its people which will remain with them for the rest of their lives, we wish to promote children’s interest and understanding of diverse places and environments, together with a deeper understanding of the Earth’s key physical and human processes.  Our curriculum is designed to develop knowledge and skills that are progressive, as well as transferable, throughout their time at primary school and also to their further education and beyond.

Implementation

Geography is taught in blocks throughout the year, so that children can achieve depth in their learning.  Teachers have identified the key knowledge and skills of each blocked topic and consideration has been given to ensure progression across topics throughout each year group across the school.   Consideration is also given to how greater depth will be taught and demonstrated within each lesson, as well as how learners will be supported in line with the school’s commitment to inclusion.

Cross curricular outcomes in geography are specifically planned for, with strong links between geography, science, PE and literacy lessons identified and expanded upon. The local area of Milnthorpe and the South Lakes is fully utilised to achieve the desired outcomes, with opportunities for learning outside the classroom embedded in practice.

Impact

Outcomes in topic and literacy books evidence a broad and balanced geography curriculum and demonstrate children’s acquisition of identified key knowledge and skills.  As children progress throughout the school, they develop a deep knowledge, understanding and appreciation of their local area and its place within the wider geographical context and will be able to discuss their learning with subject specific vocabulary.   Regular school trips and residentials provide further relevant and contextual learning through fieldwork and develop children’s confidence and a deeper understanding.