Geography 11-16

Becoming a geography teacher means more than just sharing knowledge of landscapes and locations; it’s about cultivating global citizens who grasp the interconnectedness of our world. In this role, you have the unique opportunity to spark curiosity, encourage critical thinking, and mould future leaders. By delving into diverse cultures, pressing environmental concerns, and human geography, you will shape perspectives and foster appreciation for our planet’s complexities, at a time when knowledge of and caring for our planet is paramount.

Being a teacher of geography means you will support young people to: 

• study places and understand the relationships between people and environments;
• explore the physical and human properties of the earth; 
• understand how humans influence places, and how places influence humans;
• share your interest in understanding where things are found, why they are there, and how they change over time.

What are the key concepts that underpin our approach to the teaching of geography?

• To develop knowledge of the location of globally significant places, including physical and human characteristics, and understanding the actions of processes 
• To understand the key physical and human geographical processes behind global features, how these are interdependent and bring about spatial differences
• To develop the geographical skills needed to: 
• collect, analyse and communicate a range of data gathered through fieldwork interpret a range of sources of geographical information, including maps, diagrams, globes, aerial photographs and (GIS) 
• communicate geographical information in a variety of ways, including through maps, numerical and quantitative skills and writing at length.
• To develop and extend knowledge of locations, places, environments and processes, and of different scales and contexts (know geographical material)
• To gain understanding of the interactions between people and environments, change in places and processes over space and time (think like a geographer) 
• To develop a range of skills including those in fieldwork, in using maps and GIS; and develop competence in applying sound enquiry approaches (study like a geographer) 
• To apply geographical knowledge, understanding and skills to real world contexts, including fieldwork; and develop well-evidenced arguments drawing on geographical knowledge and understanding (applying geography)

The subject specialist side of my training was fantastic. It was a great opportunity to delve deeper into the complex nature of geography teaching and explore some of the key methodologies in my subject.  Sharing ideas with my specialist and other Associate Teachers on the same course was hugely helpful.

This course is built on an extensive research base in teaching geography and it is closely interwoven with our Central Curriculum Sessions as part of our overall Integrated Curriculum approach. Each year we review all aspects of our courses to ensure that they cover the most relevant components of the subject as well as introducing you to the most commonly taught ideas and concepts. Mentors and specialist teachers in our partnership schools also play a crucial role in reviewing the programme to ensure that it gives the very best preparation for becoming a great geography teacher.

Our carefully designed curriculum is structured so that you will have approximately one Subject Curriculum Session a week across the 2024-25 academic year. Alongside this, subject specificity is carefully woven throughout all aspects of the course, including the ongoing assessment process and the optional PGCE assignments, so that all content is relevant to you and your teaching. Subject Curriculum Sessions will develop on the ideas and theory raised in your general Central Curriculum Sessions so that you have expert guidance on how best to deliver strategies and techniques in your specific subject area. 

Our geography course prepares you to teach across the 11-16 age range, and you will be formally assessed in those key stages. In addition you will also have the opportunity to observe and teach KS5/ A level in at least one of your placements and your Subject Curriculum Sessions will include training that prepares you to teach KS5/ A level.

The links below will provide you with information about the curriculum and programmes of study for Key Stage 3 and 4 that schools are expected to deliver, these shape the content that your Subject Curriculum Sessions will cover, to ensure that you are able and confident to teach across the full range of topic areas included.

• Geography programmes of study KS3 national curriculum
• Key Stage 4 – Geography GCSE subject content

As well as introducing you to a wealth of relevant books, articles and research papers from our own resources and library, you will also have funded access to The Geographical Association, the professional body for geography teachers. 

Membership will be set up and arranged for you at the start of the course and your Subject Specialist will guide you on how best to use the resources, professional learning community and events from the association to support your subject development and the lessons that you will prepare and deliver.

Simon has been a teacher of Geography for 37 years in a number of large secondary schools and has worked as head of Geography in two. He also has wide experience of school leadership, most recently as a headteacher of an Oxfordshire secondary school. He has a passion for Geography and a passion for teaching. He understands what it takes to be a good teacher of Geography and works with the SCITT to enable Associate Teachers to develop the same understanding.