Geography (A Level)

Geography is the study of the interactions between humans and their environment. We learn about how humans utilise and are affected by the world around them. Geography remains a diverse and engaging subject that covers issues relevant to our world today. The A- level embraces contemporary Geography which include the new component of ‘changing places’ whilst retaining key elements of traditional Geography such as ‘coastal environments’.

Having a better understanding of these issues will help us to live more sustainably and improve our quality of life and wellbeing. Within lessons you will develop many skills including essay writing, analytical and evaluation skills as well as improving your communication, ICT and teamwork skills.

Students complete 3 components. Component 1 is Physical Geography where students study Water and Carbon Cycles, Coastal Systems and Landscapes and Hazards. Component 2 allows students to study 3 topics, Global Systems and Global Governance, Changing Places and Contemporary Urban Environments. Both these components are worth 40% each. The final component consists of an independent study where students will be provided with the opportunity to complete a field study in their chosen area. This is considered a controlled assessment and is the remaining 20% of the course.

80% Examination. One for each component. 20% Non Examined Assessment.

Min 5 in Geography & 5 in English + 3 other Grade 9-4 GCSEs

Geography's strength lies in its broad appeal and the neat overlap with many other subject areas. It combines skills and knowledge appropriate to mix with any other A Level.

A Geography qualification helps you to progress to a wide range of careers because of the humanities- and science-based skills you will learn. Students who study Geography have gone into surveying, leisure and recreation, town planning, countryside management, landscape architecture, accountancy, environmental health, marketing, international development and a host of other careers. Others have gone onto further research in meteorology, volcanology and glaciology.