Geography

Please note:
This subject is offered in mixed classes jointly with Ermysted’s Grammar School.   

Is this course for me?

Geography enables you to gain a deeper understanding of the Earth and to develop the skills to understand, investigate, and solve real-world challenges. Geography at A‑level combines physical processes with human interactions, giving you the tools to think critically about the planet and its people.

Qualification Structure

Component 1 - Physical Geography focuses on the forces of nature that shape our planet.

In Coastal Systems and Landscapes, you’ll explore how waves, tides, and sediment interact to create cliffs, beaches, and spits, and examine how humans manage these processes and environments. The Hazards unit investigates earthquakes, volcanoes, tropical storms, and wildfires, helping you understand why hazards occur and how communities prepare, respond, and recover. The Water and Carbon Cycles unit examines the movement of water and carbon through the environment and the impact of the interaction between the two cycles and human activity on climate and ecosystems.

Component 2 - Human Geography looks at how people interact with their environment.

We start by looking at Changing Places which looks at what places are like and why. We also look at how people build relationships with places and how places are shaped by the connections at scales from local to global. In the Population and the Environment module, you’ll study population growth, migration, and ageing societies, exploring the challenges of food, water, and health across different regions and the relationship. This unit also examines sustainable development and global health strategies, helping you understand the complex relationship between people and the planet. The final unit of human geography is Global Systems and Global Governance which looks at globalisation and economic geography as well as assessing how far global systems work to promote sustainable development and peace. 

Component 3 - the NEA (Non-Examined Assessment) Fieldwork Investigation,

Component 3 is where you’ll take your learning beyond the classroom.You will design and carry out your own fieldwork, collect and analyse data, and produce a 3,000–4,000 word independent report. This develops your skills in research, critical thinking, and communication while allowing you to investigate a geographical topic that excites you – it is entirely your choice what you study so you can take your NEA in whichever direction you like. Lots of our students use this to support their university application, for example those applying for medicine often investigate factors controlling health in a specific area.

Geography is a multi-disciplinary subject which has something for everyone and which helps to develop a wide range of analytical, written and data skills which are useful in many careers and university courses.