Why study A level Geography?
In Geography we study the world around us, looking at the physical interaction of processes in creating landscapes and then at how humans interact with these environments. Current events always form a key part of the course as our world is so dynamic and constantly changing. The six human and physical topics covered within A level Geography are all deeply intertwined, and students are encouraged to develop their own opinions and to learn about areas of the world that they find the most interesting. We follow the AQA exam course that has two examination papers of 2.5 hours, both worth 40% and a piece of independent coursework called an NEA which is worth 20% of the final grade.
Course Overview
Y12:
Students complete two days of fieldwork looking at sand dunes, local urban areas, environmental quality, flooding and tourism. In the summer term of Y12 students will design and plan a piece of independent fieldwork that forms their coursework. Students are also encouraged to write an article for the SSFC GeogBlog on a topic that interests them allowing them to be published authors before they complete university applications.
Y13:
As part of the glacier’s topic students work with the Geography department at Worcester University to complete virtual fieldwork and discuss Geography based University courses and options. In the spring of Y13 students complete an overnight residential to the Lake District where they look at relict glacial environments, human interactions with these environments, how humans form attachments to places and urban change. Students work with staff from Newcastle University to complete GIS activities and have the option to attend a climate change conference at Teesside University. Weekly revision sessions are held in the two terms before final examinations.
Careers
Geography is seen as a facilitating subject by the Russell Group and many employers as it has lots of transferable skills and is suitable to lead onto many diverse career paths that include:
Cartography, energy, education, climate study, hazard management, GIS, hydrology, meteorology, pollution, environmental management, remote sensing, surveying, town planning, conservation, surveying, consultancy, tourism services, transport planning and many more.
Students interested in studying Geography at University are given guidance with their applications and help choosing a suitable course. SSFC has strong links with a wide range of universities many of which are in the top 25 in the world for Geography.
What subjects go well with Geography?
Here at SSFC you have the opportunity to study a combination of three subjects. Due to its wide range of skills Geography fits well with many different subjects. Many students choose Biology or a Science alongside Geography as there is some overlap with the topics. English, History and Sociology are also complimentary due to the longer answer essay style examination questions.
Entry requirements
We would prefer students to have grade 4 and above in English and Maths. IT skills are useful but will be developed throughout the course. It is not necessary for students to have GCSE Geography but it can help with previous knowledge and awareness of topics.
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