Geography

The Geography Department encourages pupils to develop a sense of place, both locally and globally. Through a variety of areal contexts, Geography helps to cultivate an understanding of the physical and human processes which shape our World and which make different places distinctive. We hope that our pupils gain an awareness of environmental issues and an empathy towards other countries and cultures. This we believe helps to produce well-informed, confident and responsible global citizens.

All pupils study Geography in S2, with an initial focus on local Geography extending to a study of human and physical themes in a world context. In S3 and S4, Standard Grade Geography involves a number of fieldwork activities, encouraging pupils to make the important link between classroom study and the world beyond. In recent years, foreign fieldwork trips have been organised to the French Alps and Iceland.

At Higher level, pupils study two units developing a greater understanding of both Physical and Human Environments whilst the Environmental Interactions Unit examines, through case studies, the inter-relationship between people and their environment. Specific Topics include UK Land Use Issues and Global Development Health. The Advanced Higher develops a wider variety of geographical methods and techniques including fieldwork, the interpretation and production of maps and diagrams, and statistical analysis. These techniques are applied to produce an individual local Geographical Study. Candidates also submit a Critical Evaluation on a contemporary geographical issue.

While the Department's focus is on Geography, there is the option in S6 to study Geology to Intermediate level.