Geography

Our world is an amazing place. Geography lessons seek to provoke and answer questions about the natural world and our place in it.

Pupils develop a knowledge of places and environments, the ability to read and interpret maps and an understanding of current issues affecting people and our environment. Lessons aim to develop the geographical skills of questioning, observing, recording and comparing. Pupils are encouraged to develop a broad outlook on life, and a good awareness of topical issues, both at home and in the wider world.

Towards the senior end of the School, Geography lessons take place in a designated Geography Room, with maps, displays and a variety of resources. These include the use of a computer and DVD facility, an interactive whiteboard, and a wide range of textbooks. From Year 5 upwards, lessons are taught by a Geography specialist.

Practical activities, such as orienteering or conducting a weathering survey, are included in lessons wherever possible. The use of ICT is encouraged for research and to enhance presentation of data.

Fieldwork is a vital part of Geography. Local field study projects are undertaken in lessons and on Activities Days, such as examining the impact of tourism in the Wendover Woods or studying the environment at Tring reservoir.

In Year 7, the girls have a week's residential Field Trip in Yorkshire. This week is always a highlight of their time at Godstowe as the girls return with renewed enthusiasm for the subject, together with a greater understanding of the topics studied in school.

The idea that we have an impact upon our environment is an important one which spills over into our life at Godstowe. 

Over 50 girls are involved in our 'Starfish Squad' and proudly wear a specially-designed badge. These girls organise our paper recycling scheme and collect playground fruit snack waste every day to compost.  

We recently appointed a group of Green Ambassadors, including girls from each year group in Main School. This group works together to raise awareness of the issues of climate change and environmental protection across the school, and they give an assembly once a term.

Many of our girls take part in the ‘Young Climate Change Warrior’ challenges every week. 

Furthermore we have close links with the local district council, who help us to find ways of increasing our social responsibility and citizenship.