Geography: Intent, Implementation and Impact

Intent

At Smallthorne Primary Academy, Geography is a key driver within our Character and Arts Curriculum, inspiring pupils to explore, question and understand the world around them. Our intent is to nurture curious, compassionate and responsible global citizens who appreciate the diversity of people, places and environments.

Through Geography, pupils develop knowledge, skills and character together. Learning is enquiry-led and creatively enriched, fostering traits such as curiosity, resilience, respect, empathy and teamwork. Pupils learn not only what is where, but also why it is there and how it connects to their own lives and community.

We aim for all children to:

• Develop a secure understanding of local, national and global geography, including the physical and human features of diverse environments.
• Build strong locational knowledge using maps, globes and digital tools to make sense of their world.
• Recognise the impact of human choices on the environment and develop a sense of responsibility for sustainability.
• Strengthen character traits such as curiosity, perseverance, teamwork and reflection.

Implementation

Our Geography curriculum is delivered through a carefully sequenced, topic-based approach that integrates character education and artistic creativity. Each unit builds upon prior knowledge and skills, ensuring clear progression from Year 1 to Year 6.

• Integrated Learning: Topics are brought to life through the creative arts, with pupils using drama, art, music and storytelling to explore geographical themes. For example, children might investigate the Antarctic through painting icy landscapes, performing explorer diaries, or designing 3D map installations.
• Local and Global Connections: Learning begins with the familiar – the school and local community – before expanding to national and global contexts.
• Enquiry-Based Learning: Pupils investigate geographical questions through maps, atlases, aerial images, data and digital technology. They are encouraged to think critically, draw conclusions, and communicate findings creatively through art, writing, or performance.
• Inclusivity and Accessibility: All pupils, including those with SEND and EAL, are supported through visual resources, hands-on learning and collaborative activities to ensure meaningful participation.

Impact

By the time children leave Smallthorne Primary Academy, they will have developed:

• Secure Geographical Knowledge: A confident understanding of physical and human geography, maps, fieldwork and environmental relationships.
• Curiosity and Confidence: A genuine enthusiasm for exploring the world and expressing geographical understanding through creative media.
• Character Strengths: Respect for diversity, resilience in investigation, teamwork during enquiry, and a sense of responsibility for the planet.
• Preparedness for the Future: Pupils leave as reflective, compassionate individuals who understand their place within a global community and can make informed, ethical choices about the world around them.

Impact is measured through pupil voice, work scrutiny, fieldwork outcomes and evidence of cross-curricular expression in art, writing and performance. Success is seen in pupils who not only know about the world but who care deeply about it – living our school motto:
Smile, Strive, Shine.