Geography

At Tetherdown, the study of geography inspires curiosity, interest and a sense of wonder about the world around us. It helps children understand an increasingly complex and ever-changing world by exploring where places are, how landscapes are formed and how people interact with their environments. Geography also develops empathy, respect and appreciation for different cultures, while enabling children to understand how economies, societies and environments are interconnected. Building on children's own experiences, learning takes them on a journey from the personal and local to the national and global, helping them make meaningful connections with the wider world. 

Geography at Tetherdown develops children's understanding of the world through enquiry, investigation and fieldwork. Pupils build a rich geographical vocabulary alongside key skills in mapping, data interpretation, critical thinking and geographical enquiry. Using maps, atlases, GIS and first-hand fieldwork experiences, children learn to collect, analyse and communicate information about places, people and environments. These skills enable pupils to understand how the world is connected and to become informed, responsible global citizens.

Pupils: 

• Develop strong mapping skills by using globes, atlases, OS maps, aerial photographs and GIS to locate, compare and analyse places from Muswell Hill to Brazil, Nigeria and New York. 
• Undertake meaningful fieldwork in the local area and beyond, including investigations in Highgate Wood, Cherry Tree Wood, Alexandra Park and Walton-on-the-Naze, collecting and interpreting data through maps, surveys, charts and graphs. 
• Use geographical vocabulary accurately and confidently to explain processes such as climate change, migration, trade, river formation, coastal erosion, earthquakes and volcanism. 
• Ask and answer geographical questions, for example exploring why people live in earthquake zones, why cities develop near rivers, or how life in Mexico differs from life in the UK. 
• Make connections between local, national and global issues, including sustainability, renewable energy, fair trade and climate change. 
• Reflect on their learning, organise their ideas effectively and understand their next steps, developing independence and confidence as geographical thinkers. 

Through these experiences, children leave Tetherdown with a deep understanding of the world's diverse people, places and environments and an appreciation of their role as informed and responsible global citizens.