Intent

At East Acton, we believe Geography inspires curiosity and provides answers to questions about the natural and human world. Our curriculum enables children to develop a deep understanding of the world and their place within it, fostering respect for people, environments and cultures. As a Rights Respecting School, we promote equality, sustainability and global responsibility, making meaningful links to the UNCRC and the UN Global Goals, including Climate Action, Life on Land and Reduced Inequalities.

Geography at East Acton is designed to develop transferable knowledge and skills that support pupils’ spiritual, moral, social and cultural development. Through studying diverse places, people and environments, children gain a secure understanding of key physical and human processes, as well as the impact humans have on the planet. We aim to inspire a lifelong fascination with the world and an awareness of environmental sustainability and social justice.

Our curriculum is carefully sequenced to ensure progression in both knowledge and skills. Supported by Oddizzi, it provides breadth, clear structure and defined end points, enabling pupils to build on prior learning and apply their understanding across the wider curriculum.

Implementation

Geography is taught in well-planned blocks to allow pupils to develop depth in their learning. Each unit identifies key knowledge and skills, ensuring clear progression across year groups.

Learning begins by exploring pupils’ prior knowledge and questions, which helps shape teaching and ensures lessons are relevant and inclusive. An enquiry-based approach encourages children to investigate geographical concepts, ask questions and develop informed understanding.

Fieldwork is a key feature of the curriculum, with the local area used to provide meaningful, real-life learning experiences. Cross-curricular links are carefully planned, particularly with science, mathematics and design and technology, strengthening pupils’ ability to apply their knowledge.

Pupils regularly revisit and build upon vocabulary and concepts, while targeted support and challenge ensure all learners can succeed. Quizzing and resources such as Oddizzi support knowledge retention and help pupils track their progress over time (Article 29).

Impact

Our Geography curriculum develops informed, responsible and reflective learners who understand their role within a global community. Pupils build a strong body of knowledge and are able to make connections between human and physical processes.

Children develop an appreciation of diversity, sustainability and environmental responsibility, understanding how human actions impact the planet and the lives of others. This supports their understanding of global challenges such as climate change and inequality, linking to the UN Global Goals and promoting respect for the rights of all (Articles 2, 29).

Through regular reflection, assessment and tools such as KL charts, pupils recognise their progress and take ownership of their learning (Article 12). By the end of KS2, children have the skills to think critically, ask meaningful geographical questions and engage thoughtfully with global issues.

Pupils leave East Acton with a lasting curiosity about the world, a respect for different communities and environments, and the knowledge and skills needed to contribute positively to a more sustainable and equitable future.