Studying Geography will broaden your knowledge and understanding of the world around you and of your place within it.
You will explore some of the most important issues facing society today, from climate change, natural hazards and energy security to globalisation, migration, regeneration and inequality.
You will learn to investigate places, analyse data, evaluate evidence, debate solutions and communicate ideas clearly: skills highly valued by universities and employers. And, of course, Geography takes you beyond the classroom to understand the real world for yourself.
'Geography is not only up to date and relevant, it is one of the most exciting, adventurous and valuable subjects to study today.'
Michael Palin
​Are you interested in...
Climate change, sustainability and the future of the planet?
Why earthquakes, volcanoes and coastal hazards happen?
How globalisation is changing people, places and economies?
Why some places need regeneration and how decisions are made?
Water insecurity, energy security and environmental challenges?
Collecting data through fieldwork and researching your own enquiry?
Dynamic Landscapes, Physical Systems and Sustainability
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Tectonic Processes and Hazards: why earthquakes, volcanoes and tsunamis happen, how they affect people and how societies manage risk.
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Coastal Landscapes and Change: how waves, geology and sea-level change shape coasts, and how coastal communities are protected.
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Water and Carbon Cycles: how these vital systems work, why water insecurity and energy security matter, and how climate change links them together.
Dynamic Places, Human Systems and Geopolitics
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Globalisation: how trade, technology and global connections are reshaping economies, cultures and everyday lives.
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Regeneration: why places decline or change, how they are rebranded and redeveloped, and whether regeneration benefits everyone.
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Superpowers and Migration: how power is distributed globally, how people move across borders, and how identity and sovereignty are challenged.
Synoptic Assessment
The synoptic assessment is completed through Paper 3, a 2 hour 15 minute exam worth 20% of the qualification. Students apply knowledge and skills from across the course to a contemporary geographical issue, using resources to analyse different players, attitudes, actions, futures and uncertainties.
The assessment focuses on making connections between topics, interpreting evidence and reaching well-supported geographical judgements.
Independent Investigation
The NEA (Non-Examined Assessment) is an independent geographical investigation worth 20% of the qualification. Students develop their own enquiry question, linked to the course specification, and undertake fieldwork to collect, present and analyse data.
They produce a written investigation of approximately 3,000–4,000 words, drawing conclusions and evaluating their methods and findings.
ASSESSMENT
Three exams at the end of Year 13:
Component 1: Dynamic Landscapes, Physical Systems and Sustainability (30%)
Component 2: Dynamic Places, Human Systems and Geopolitics (30%)
Component 3: Synoptic Assessment (20%)
One non-examination assessment: Independent Investigation coursework (20%).
SUBJECT EXPERTS​
Mr Smith, Subject Lead
Mr Smith has Master’s degrees in both Geology and Teaching, along with 15 years’ experience teaching A-level Geography.
He has a genuine passion for the subject and enjoys helping students build confidence and achieve their best. Over the years, Richard’s students have consistently achieved excellent outcomes, with some going on to study at Oxbridge.
He has also travelled extensively across the world, including South America, Asia and Africa and uses these experiences to bring Geography to life in the classroom.
Mr Ockwell-Smith has a strong passion for both Geography and the Earth Sciences and is committed to inspiring curiosity about the world and its changing landscapes. He graduated with a first-class degree in Geology, bringing extensive fieldwork experience and specialist knowledge to the classroom.
He has experience teaching both GCSE and A-level Geography, where he encourages students to think critically, develop strong geographical enquiry skills and gain a deeper understanding of the physical and human processes that shape our planet.
Study Visit
Students complete four days of fieldwork across the two-year course, collecting qualitative and quantitative data to support their independent investigation.
A-level Geography students may also have the opportunity to visit Iceland in 2028 to explore volcanic landscapes, tectonic processes, glaciation, geothermal energy and coastal environments. Estimated cost: £1600 per person.
Opportunities for local fieldwork, lectures and enrichment activities TBC.
GEOGRAPHY CAN LEAD TO A CAREER IN:
Environmental consultancy.
Planning, surveying and regeneration.
GIS, mapping and data analysis.
Sustainability, policy and development.
Teaching, research, journalism, logistics or the civil service.