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Geography at Ellingham
At Ellingham Primary School, we believe that Geography is about exploring our amazing world and understanding our place within it. We are fortunate to be surrounded by beautiful countryside, yet still be part of the bustling borough of Kingston Upon Thames, with central London a train ride away. This unique location helps us connect our learning to real places around us. We truly believe that Geography helps to provoke and answer questions about the natural and human worlds. Cultural diversity enriches our school and it is important for our children to see themselves in their learning and so the countries studied, for example Brazil, have strong connections to our school community.
Our Approach to Teaching
Geography at Ellingham starts from Nursery, where children begin to understand directions and talk about their homes and local surroundings. As they grow, children explore big questions about the natural world, from rivers and mountains to weather patterns and climate zones. They also learn about human environments, such as different types of settlements, land use, and how people interact with their surroundings. We encourage children to think about how environmental factors affect the world and how they can play a part in looking after our planet.
We use local resources and places like the Hogsmill River, Bonesgate Stream, and Kingston Upon Thames to bring learning to life. Children learn to use maps, atlases, globes, and digital mapping tools to locate places and understand geographical features. They develop important skills like using compass directions and grid references , and we practice fieldwork and observation skills in our school grounds and local area. Teachers plan lessons with the needs of all children in mind.
We use knowledge organisers in books, by both children and teachers, to check coverage and ensure appropriate vocabulary is used. These also help with quizzing understanding. The development of geographical knowledge, understanding, and skills is continually assessed through planning, teaching, and reviewing. Key geographical skills are assessed by observing children, using differentiated, open-ended questions that require explanation, and through effective marking. At the end of each topic, children complete a quiz to assess their knowledge acquisition. Teachers use the results of these quizzes to inform planning for the next topic and address any gaps.
Exciting Enrichment
To make Geography even more engaging, we arrange trips and visitors. For example, our Year 2 pupils go on fieldwork trips to explore local features like Bonesgate Stream , and Year 3 children have even been awarded for their work as "Climate Heroes". We want children to thoroughly enjoy learning about geography, helping them gain a greater understanding of themselves and others, and encouraging them to undertake new life experiences in the future.
Geography policy 2024-25.docx (1).pdfPage updated
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