"In our changing world, nothing changes more than geography"
Pearl S Buck
Geography
Our Geography curriculum has been built as a bespoke progression model for our Gillas Lane children. Taking into account their starting points and experiences, we have designed a Geography curriculum that allows for the exploration of relationships and connections between people and the environment and the impact they have on each other. Links with the River Wears Trust enables our children to experience first hand the thrill of fieldwork that results in meaningful data analysis.
Here are our long term plans for Geography.
Geography Progressive Milestones in Disciplinary Learning
Our Geography Progressive Milestones in Disciplinary Learning contain the disciplinary knowledge needed to understand the disciplinary concepts. Our mid term planning specifies the substantive knowledge the children will learn.
Disciplinary Knowledge - how a geographer thinks about and interacts with the world
- how a geographer examines knowledge and thinks about ideas through working with existing, developing and new geographical concepts
- working like a geographer; how geographers think and find out what they know
- how geographers apply their knowledge to the world; understanding everyday experiences, recognising the challenges facing people and the planet; and considering how to address injustices and inequalities
Our Progressive Milestones in Disciplinary Learning ensure spaced repetition and are the progression model for our Geography curriculum. The expectations for the end of KS1, LKS2 and UKS2 are clear.
Substantive Knowledge
Substantive knowledge is agreed factual information, for example, the location of the Seven Sisters.
In Geography, we want our children to have substantive knowledge of:
Location - for example, to name and locate locations and understand position
Place - the connection and interaction between location and physical and/or human geography
Environmental, physical and human geography - for example, migration, erosion, climate change
Fieldwork - for example knowing and understanding what a map is and the use of symbols on a map
Here is our Geography Substantive Knowledge Map.
The Importance of Geography in the Early Years
Geography in the early years helps children begin to make sense of the world around them. At Gillas Lane, we introduce geographical learning through exploration, observation, and hands-on experiences that spark curiosity and build foundational understanding.
Young children are naturally inquisitive about their surroundings. Through geography, they learn about different places, environments, and communities - starting with their immediate setting and gradually expanding to the wider world. This helps them develop a sense of place, belonging, and awareness of diversity.
Geographical activities such as map-making, nature walks, and discussions about weather and seasons support early skills in observation, comparison, and critical thinking. These experiences also encourage language development as children describe what they see, ask questions, and share ideas.
Geography fosters environmental awareness and responsibility from a young age. By learning about the natural world and how people interact with it, children begin to understand the importance of caring for their surroundings and respecting the planet. Even our youngest children are involved in ensuring our Climate Action Plan is followed!
Through our Early Years Curriculum, we aim to make geography a meaningful and engaging part of children’s learning, helping them build connections, develop empathy, and become thoughtful explorers of the world.
Geography and SEND
Geography can be especially valuable for children with SEND as it offers rich, multi-sensory learning experiences that help them connect with the world around them.
Through practical activities like exploring local environments, using maps, and observing weather patterns, children can develop spatial awareness, communication skills, and a sense of place.
Geography also encourages curiosity and independence, allowing children to engage at their own pace and in ways that suit their individual learning styles.
By making geography accessible and inclusive, we help SEND children build confidence, understanding, and meaningful connections with their surroundings.
