Geography
Geography is a dynamic and thought-provoking subject that helps students make sense of the world around them.
Learning Geography matters because it equips students with the knowledge and skills they need to understand global issues, think critically, and become informed global citizens.
When studying Geography at Harris Dulwich Boys, students will explore real-world challenges and develop a deep appreciation for the interconnectedness of people, places, and environments.
Geography is uniquely placed to empower students from all backgrounds as it helps students develop a multifaceted view of the world and their place within it. When taught well, the power of diversity in geography serves to tackle stereotypes and improve representation of places and people globally and locally.
“Geography is the subject which holds the key to our future.” Michael Palin
Year 7 – sparking geographical curiosity
In Year 7, students begin their geographical journey with a range of exciting and meaningful topics designed to spark curiosity and build upon the foundational skills developed in Key Stage 2 Geography:
- How to think like a geographer – introducing key geographical concepts, enquiry skills and map reading.
- Amazing environments – exploring diverse ecosystems and the physical and human processes that shape them, with a focus on the Amazon Rainforest and the Arctic Polar Region.
- Behind the brand: how sustainable is my mobile? – investigating global trade, resource extraction, and ethical consumption, with a focus on examining the impacts and sustainability of global supply chains.
- Urban and rural geography of the UK – understanding settlement patterns, land use, and regional differences within the UK, with a focus on urban geography of London and the characteristics of National Parks of the UK.
- Rivers – studying river processes, landforms, the impact of flooding on people and places, and how rivers are and can be managed to mitigate against flooding in a changing climate.
Each unit is framed around a ‘big question’ to encourage deeper thinking and real-world connections.
“The study of geography is about more than just memorising places on a map. It's about understanding the complexity of our world… and using all that knowledge to help bridge divides and bring people together.” Barack Obama
Years 8–11 - building Expertise
As students progress, they explore more complex and global themes, including:
- Tectonic hazards
- Development and inequality
- Coasts and ecosystems
- Resource management
- Climate change and sustainability
At GCSE, students follow the OCR B Geography specification (Geography for Enquiring Minds), which includes:
- Our natural world – physical geography and environmental processes.
- People and society – human geography and global development.
- Geographical exploration – decision-making, fieldwork, and synoptic thinking.
This course prepares students for further study and helps them become informed, responsible global citizens.
Overall, the Geography curriculum aims to:
- Build powerful geographical knowledge and skills.
- Encourage critical thinking and curiosity.
- Promote global awareness and sustainability.