Geography Curriculum

Intent

At Benhurst, our Geography curriculum inspires children to develop a respectful understanding of local, national and global geography as well as a sense of curiosity about the world in which they live. Our curriculum creatively ensures pupils develop knowledge about diverse places, people, resources and natural and human environments, together with a deep understanding of the Earth’s key physical and human processes. As pupils progress through the school and curriculum, their growing knowledge about the world will help them to deepen their understanding of the interaction between physical and human processes, and of the formation and use of landscapes and environments. Our pupils are encouraged to be resilient and develop the ability to reach clear conclusions, develop a reasoned argument to explain findings and express well-balanced opinions rooted in strong knowledge and understanding about current and contemporary issues in society and the environment. They are encouraged to develop significant levels of compassion, courage and ambition as shown in interpretations and representations of the subject matter.

Implementation 

At Benhurst, our Geography curriculum begins with a focus on our local community of Hornchurch allowing pupils to develop a strong connection to the world around them. Through engaging, creative lessons, we equip children with the knowledge, understanding, and skills to progressively build their geography expertise. Pupil’s design and create projects that are purposeful and relevant, considering a range of sectors such as home, school, leisure, culture, and the wider environment. This encourages them to think practically while embracing ambition and creativity in their work.

At the start of each unit, pupils reflect on prior learning and are encouraged to make their own inquiries, fostering a curiosity that drives them to explore more deeply. By drawing on familiar areas and expanding to larger-scale geographical concepts, pupils develop a comprehensive understanding of both human and physical geography. They explore diverse biomes across continents, making meaningful connections and building on this knowledge year by year.

Teachers at Benhurst model subject-specific vocabulary and key geographical skills, ensuring that children have the tools they need to succeed. Courage is instilled in pupils as they take on new challenges and broaden their geographical perspectives. Formative assessments are continuously used to track progress, and we seize every opportunity to enhance learning through enriching experiences such as field trips and cultural explorations.

Impact

By the time pupils leave Benhurst, they will possess a well-rounded understanding of how places are interconnected, with a clear appreciation of both human and physical geography. Their sense of curiosity about the world and its diverse people will be deeply ingrained, fuelling their desire to explore and learn further. Children will be articulate speakers, able to express well-balanced opinions rooted in strong knowledge and understanding of contemporary societal and environmental issues.

Pupils will confidently use a range of geographical tools and compass points, demonstrating competence in navigating and comparing different geographical regions and concepts. Our Geography curriculum empowers pupils to think critically, approach the world with compassion, and engage with global issues, laying a strong foundation for their future as informed and responsible global citizens.

Year Group Overview

Documents