Geography – Mrs J. Nevin

At Cotteridge, we aim to instil in pupils a curiosity and fascination about the world, as well as their place within it. We encourage children to ask and answer questions in order to develop a deeper understanding of the complexities of our ever-changing world.   

Within our curriculum, we ensure progression of key geographical concepts, knowledge and skills that consistently build on previous understanding. Cotteridge encourages creativity within the curriculum and aims to teach geography in a variety of ways. For instance, we use a range of maps, globes, atlases, aerial photographs, digital mapping and fieldwork. 

We provide pupils with opportunities to explore the diversity of cultures that exist across continents. As our curriculum is taught through topics, we assign a place to each termly topic. Children will develop a deep understanding of the place, space and scale of their specific country and study the human and physical features in depth. They will then be encouraged to make comparisons with the people, resources and human and physical features of other worldwide locations.   

As well as appreciating other countries and cultures, we place emphasis on children studying and understanding their local area. They will gain experiences not just within the classroom, but also with the use of fieldwork and educational visits. We will take advantage of the local surroundings of Cotteridge, our school grounds, Cotteridge park and Bournville, as well as venturing further afield in some instances. Undertaking school trips linked with Geography and carrying out fieldwork will deepen children’s understandings and highlight in a very real way how Geography influences and impacts upon the world in which they live.   

Our hope is for the children to develop a love of geography, and a fascination of the world and its people, that will stay with them throughout their lives.