Curriculum intent
Geography at Retford Oaks Academy helps students to make sense of the world around them, developing an understanding of both physical landscapes and human environments. We aim to inspire curiosity about the planet, encouraging students to explore how people and places are connected and how these relationships continue to shape our world.
Through a broad and engaging curriculum, students investigate real-world issues such as climate change, sustainability and global development. Alongside building geographical knowledge, students develop critical thinking, problem-solving and decision-making skills, enabling them to become informed and responsible global citizens.
Key stage 3: years 7–9
At key stage 3, students develop a strong foundation in both physical and human geography. The curriculum is designed to build knowledge progressively, while encouraging students to ask questions, interpret data and understand the world at local, national and global scales.
In year 7, students begin by exploring geography on a local level, studying Retford and developing their map skills. They then examine settlements and how places develop, before moving on to topics such as weather and climate, population and migration. In the summer term, students explore global biomes and river landscapes, developing an understanding of natural environments and processes.
In year 8, students build on this knowledge by exploring more complex geographical processes and global issues. They study tectonics and development, considering how physical geography impacts human life. Topics such as coasts and globalisation help students to understand how the natural and human worlds are interconnected, while sustainability encourages them to think about the future of the planet.
In year 9, students deepen their understanding of key global challenges. They explore climate change and ice landscapes, before examining tourism and tectonic hazards. In the summer term, students study weather hazards and resource management, developing their ability to analyse issues and consider possible solutions.
Key stage 4: GCSE
At key stage 4, students follow a balanced and engaging course that combines both physical and human geography. The curriculum encourages students to explore the dynamic relationship between the natural world and human activity.
Students study a range of topics including living with the physical environment, challenges in the human environment and geographical applications. They investigate real-world issues, analyse data and develop their ability to think critically about complex global challenges.
The course helps students to understand how geographical processes shape the world, while also developing key skills such as interpretation, evaluation and decision-making, preparing them for further study or future careers.
Skills and personal development
Through geography, students develop a wide range of transferable skills that support both academic success and future opportunities. These include:
- critical thinking and problem-solving
- data interpretation and analysis
- decision-making and evaluation
- understanding of global issues
- communication and enquiry skills
- Students learn to think like geographers, developing an awareness of the world and their place within it.
Enrichment opportunities
Students are given opportunities to extend their learning beyond the classroom through activities such as fieldwork, local investigations and projects linked to real-world geographical issues. These experiences help to bring learning to life and deepen students’ understanding of the subject.
