The Geography Curriculum covers a range of geographical topics and skills across different year groups. This curriculum can be linked to the five fundamental British values: democracy, the rule of law, individual liberty, mutual respect, and tolerance of those with different faiths and beliefs. Here's how some of the curriculum content aligns with these values:
- Democracy:
- Local Studies and Fieldwork (e.g., Geography of the local area, Local Issues, Data Collection): Encouraging students to engage with their local environment and community issues fosters democratic principles such as participation, civic responsibility, and collective decision-making.
- Globalisation (Year 6): Understanding economic, political, and social globalisation helps students appreciate the interconnectedness of the world and the importance of democratic governance in addressing global challenges.
- Rule of Law:
- British Geographical Issues (e.g., Air Pollution, Climate Change, Waste, Litter): Studying these topics emphasizes the importance of laws and regulations in managing environmental issues and promoting sustainable practices.
- Historical Context (e.g., The British Isles, The UK, Northern Ireland): Learning about the geographical and historical context of the UK and its regions highlights the role of laws and governance in shaping the country's development.
- Individual Liberty:
- Exploration and Discovery (e.g., Seven Continents, Rivers, Mountains): Providing opportunities for students to explore different parts of the world and understand diverse geographical features supports the value of individual liberty, allowing them to broaden their horizons and develop a sense of curiosity and adventure.
- Spatial Sense (e.g., Maps, Compasses, Grid References): Encouraging students to develop their spatial awareness and navigation skills promotes independence and self-reliance.
- Mutual Respect:
- Cultural Studies (e.g., Asia - China and India, Mediterranean Europe, Eastern Europe, Africa): Studying the human and physical geography of different regions and countries promotes mutual respect and appreciation for the diversity of cultures and ways of life.
- Comparative Studies (e.g., Comparison of London and Paris, Comparison of The UK and a region of North America): Understanding similarities and differences between various regions fosters respect for diverse perspectives and experiences.
- Tolerance of Different Faiths and Beliefs:
- Global Awareness (e.g., The Seven Continents, The Equator and the Poles, Environmental Regions of North America): Exposure to different parts of the world and their unique geographical features encourages students to appreciate and tolerate diverse cultural and religious practices.
- Historical and Cultural Context (e.g., Past Civilisations and Empires, The History of New Zealand - The Maori, The Great Wall of China): Learning about the historical and cultural context of different regions promotes understanding and tolerance of various beliefs and traditions.