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GCSE

At the heart of studying Geography is the desire to find out more about why, and how, different elements of the world work.

During the GCSE course you will study:

Physical Geography topics:

  • The Challenge of Natural Hazards;
  • The Living World;
  • Ecosystems, Tropical Rainforests and Cold Environments.

The Physical Landscapes in the UK are Rivers and Coasts. Pupils undertake a compulsory residential field trip to conduct two fieldwork investigations which are examined in the third written paper.

Human Geography topics:

  • Urban Issues and Challenges;
  • The Changing Economic World;
  • The Challenge of Resource Management.

The key to understanding the world around us is to get out and experience it first hand, which is why fieldwork is vital. You will develop a range of key, transferable skills such as how to analyse data, evaluate different ideas and reach informed conclusions, and how to research effectively.

The Geography GCSE is assessed by two written examinations each of which are 1 hour and 30 minutes in length and worth 35% of the GCSE. You will also complete a third written paper which examines your fieldwork skills. This paper is 1 hour and 15 minutes in duration and is worth 30% of the GCSE.

A Level

A Level Geography covers both the physical and human environments of the world in which we live. Throughout the course you will study the following Physical Geography topics:

  • Water and Carbon Cycles;
  • Hazards;
  • Coastal Systems and Landscapes.

You will also study the following Human Geography topics:

  • Changing Places;
  • Global Systems;
  • Population and the Environment.

You will learn in a variety of different ways, by using maps and photographs and analysing data and statistics. You will also develop your skills of discussion and debate, and you will carry out a vast amount of extended research which will help you to become an independent thinker and learner. You will also examine a variety of case studies, ranging from local and national examples, to those from across the globe. These will help you to add examples and evidence to your answers, so that your ideas and conclusions are well substantiated.

Students undertake a compulsory, four-day, residential field trip and conduct two fieldwork investigations.

The Geography A Level is assessed by two written exams, each of which are 2 hours and 30 minutes in duration and worth 40% of the A Level. You will also complete a Geography fieldwork investigation which is worth 20% and will be 3,000-4,000 words in length.