At West Minster, we believe in inspiring a love for Geography by connecting our pupils to the world around them. Situated on the stunning Isle of Sheppey, we make the most of our unique island surroundings to bring learning to life. Our Geography curriculum is designed to foster curiosity, exploration, and a deep understanding of both local and global environments.

From Early Years through to Primary, fieldwork plays a central role in our teaching. Pupils are encouraged to engage with the natural and human features of their surroundings, from the island’s coastal landscapes to its rich history and wildlife. These hands-on experiences are complemented by the use of Ordnance Survey maps, atlases, globes, videos and Google Earth, enriching learning and helping children develop essential geographical skills. 

Throughout their journey at West Minster, pupils develop a broad understanding of Geography, exploring topics that span from the Isle of Sheppey to continents far beyond. By combining practical fieldwork with these engaging resources, we aim to nurture global citizens who are not only aware of their local environment but are also prepared to tackle global challenges with confidence, empathy, and curiosity. 

At West Minster, our teaching of Geography aims to:
 

• Stimulate pupil’s enthusiasm and interest in their own surroundings, encouraging them to know and develop attachments to their own locality, taking an active role in society (Us).
• Develop a global understanding as well as studying the local area and other localities in Kent and the United Kingdom, encouraging pupils to put the interests of the UK and Europe into a world context (Our Island & The World)
• Respect the diversity of cultures to gain a balanced viewpoint of different people and places and challenge biased images and negative stereotypes.
• Encourage Citizenship in an interconnected world.
• Develop an understanding of sustainability and the relationship between people and the environment and how actions can affect the quality of the environment.
• Encourage curiosity, personal interpretation, develop positive attitudes and opinions towards the world.
• Understand how physical features affect the lifestyles of different peoples throughout the world.
• Enable pupils to acquire and develop the skills necessary for geographical enquiries.

West Minster’s Geography curriculum enables pupils to meet the end of key stage attainment targets in the National curriculum. The aims also align with those in the National curriculum. For EYFS, the activities allow pupils to work towards the ‘Understanding the world’ Development matters statements and Early learning goals, while also covering foundational knowledge that will support them in their further geography learning in Key stage 1 & Key stage 2.