What is the importance of the subject? Why should pupils be studying it? Why should they care about it? How might the subject link to the real world/ real life scenarios?
"Geography underpins a lifelong ‘conversation’ about the earth as the home of humankind. Geography therefore contributes to a balanced education for all young people in schools, colleges and other settings."
(A Different View, GA 2009)
Geography is challenging, motivating, topical and engaging. In our diverse society students need, more than ever before, to understand other people and cultures. We believe that geographical knowledge, concepts and skills are essential components of a broad and balanced curriculum. Geography makes a major contribution to students’ physical, intellectual, social and emotional development. As Professor Andrew Goudie puts it;
'What other subject tells us so much about the great issues of our age? Geography must be a rigorous study of the real world. It must seek explanations about how the world works and help us think about alternative futures.’
Geography is concerned with the study of places, the human and physical processes that shape them and the people who live in them. It helps students to make sense of their surroundings and to gain a better appreciation and understanding of the variety of physical and human conditions on the Earth’s surface.
The Geography Department aim to:
- Stimulate students’ interest in their surroundings and in the variety of human and physical conditions on the Earth’s surface.
- Foster students' sense of wonder at the beauty of the world around them.
- Help students develop an informed concern about the quality of the environment and the future of the human habitat and thereby enhance students' sense of responsibility for the care of the earth and its people.