Geography Curriculum at Sir Martin Frobisher Academy

Exploring the World Around Us

At Sir Martin Frobisher Academy, we believe that geography helps children to make sense of the world and their place within it. Our aim is to inspire curiosity about the planet, its people, and the environments we live in.

We provide an engaging and knowledge-rich geography curriculum that develops pupils’ understanding of both physical and human geography, while encouraging respect for the world around them.

Our Approach to Geography

We follow the Kapow Primary geography scheme to support high-quality teaching and learning across the school. This ensures clear progression of knowledge and skills from Early Years through to Year 6.

Through this approach, pupils:

  • Develop a secure understanding of geographical knowledge
  • Build skills in map reading and fieldwork
  • Understand the relationship between people and the environment
  • Explore similarities and differences between places
  • Develop awareness of global issues

Lessons are designed to be engaging, interactive, and relevant to real-world contexts.

Geography in EYFS

In the Early Years Foundation Stage, geography is introduced through the “Understanding the World” area of learning.

Children begin to:

  • Explore their immediate environment
  • Talk about places they know and have visited
  • Understand simple maps and directions
  • Learn about different cultures and communities

Learning is practical, play-based, and linked to children’s own experiences.

Geography in Key Stage 1

In Years 1 and 2, pupils begin to develop their understanding of the world beyond their immediate surroundings.

Children learn to:

  • Use simple maps, atlases, and globes
  • Identify continents, oceans, and countries
  • Compare different locations
  • Understand basic human and physical features

They begin to develop geographical vocabulary and enquiry skills.

Geography in Key Stage 2

In Key Stage 2, pupils deepen their understanding of the world and develop more advanced geographical skills.

Topics may include:

  • Rivers, mountains, and natural features
  • Climate and weather
  • Settlements and land use
  • Global trade and environmental issues
  • Comparing regions within the UK and around the world

Pupils learn to:

  • Use maps, atlases, and digital tools confidently
  • Interpret data and geographical information
  • Understand how environments change over time
  • Explore the impact of human activity on the planet

Fieldwork and Practical Learning

A key part of our geography curriculum is fieldwork. Pupils are given opportunities to:

  • Explore the local area
  • Collect and analyse data
  • Use maps and compasses
  • Observe and record geographical features

These hands-on experiences help bring learning to life and develop real-world skills.

Learning Beyond the Classroom

We enrich our geography curriculum through:

  • Outdoor learning opportunities
  • Educational visits
  • Cross-curricular links
  • Use of digital mapping tools

This helps pupils to connect their learning to the wider world.

Supporting Geography at Home

Parents and carers can support their child’s learning by:

  • Talking about places and environments
  • Looking at maps and globes together
  • Discussing weather and environmental changes
  • Encouraging curiosity about the world

Assessment and Progress

Geography is assessed through ongoing classroom learning. Teachers use:

  • Observations and discussions
  • Written work and projects
  • Quizzes and knowledge checks

This ensures pupils develop both knowledge and geographical skills over time.

Our Commitment

To read out Geography policy, please click here.

At Sir Martin Frobisher Academy, we are committed to developing curious, informed learners who understand the world around them. Through our use of the Kapow curriculum and a focus on enquiry and exploration, we ensure that every child gains the knowledge and skills needed to engage with the world confidently and responsibly.