Geography A Level
About the course
“You can travel the seas, poles and deserts and see nothing. To really understand the world you need to get under the skin of the people and places. In other words, learn about Geography. I can't imagine a subject more relevant in schools. We'd all be lost without it." - Michael Palin
A Level Geography at Windsor Sixth Form aims to give students an understanding of the human and physical patterns/processes which affect people and their environment along with an understanding of the issues facing society including cultural awareness, economic development, governance and sustainability. Through the concepts, skills and synoptic links learnt whilst studying, geography creates global citizens, who have a greater awareness and understanding of the interdependence and interconnectedness of our world.
In addition to the concept and process, a range of skills are learnt by studying geography including; analytical skills, critical thinking, communication, data collection/manipulation, evaluation, problem solving and teamwork.
Geography is a subject suited to all learners, especially those who have a passion for the subject, are dedicated and hard-working.
Curriculum Intent
Across the Windsor Academy Trust we aim to provide all students the knowledge and skills to become effective Geographers and citizens in the 21st century.
What you will study
AQA Geography A Level covers a balance of both physical and human topics, alongside fieldwork and investigative skills.
Physical Geography
- Water and Carbon Cycles
- Coastal Systems and Landscapes
- Hazards
Human Geography
- Global Systems and Governance
- Changing Places
- Contemporary Urban Environments
Fieldwork is an integral part of A Level Geography. As well as making a number of local excursions you will also be expected to participate in a residential course to Dorset in Year 12. During this field trip, we will collect both human and physical data linked to a number of geographical concepts and processes.
Key Stage 5 Geography Curriculum Plan
How the course is assessed
A Level Geography is split into three components for the AQA exam board.
- Paper 1: Physical Geography - 40%
- Paper 2: Human Geography- 40%
- Non-Examination Assessment 20%. Students complete an individual investigation which must include data collected in the field.
Entry requirements
Minimum Grade 4 GCSE Geography (Grade 5 Recommended).
Why study geography at Windsor Sixth Form?
Specialist Teaching
The Geography department at Windsor comes with a wealth of knowledge, experience and specialisms in both Human and Physical Geography.
Experiences beyond the classroom
All students have the opportunity to attend a number of field trips including day trips to the Jewellery Quarter, Clent Hills as well as residentials to Dorset and Iceland. These provide students with academic and real-life experiences.
Progression to leading universities
In 2021 25% of students went to university to continue studying geography at a number of Russell Group Universities including the University of Worcester, University of Birmingham and University of Chester.
Achieve your potential
The geography department is passionate about the subject and staff are dedicated to ensuring all students achieve their potential.
Other courses that go well with geography
Due to geography's cross-curricular links and tangible nature (incorporating both a study of human interactions and the physical environment), it blends with a number of subjects including Biology, Business Studies, Economics, English, History, Law, Mathematics, Philosophy, Psychology, Science and Sociology.
What you can do after the course
Geography students are in great demand by employers and universities due to the array of transferable skills that they acquire throughout the course.
Further study and apprenticeships
Many students at Windsor continue to study geography at university. University courses can include a mixture of human, physical and environmental geography or you can specialise in one of these areas. Examples of courses linked to geography include; BA Geography (Human), BSC Geography (Physical), Environmental Science, Geology, Geospatial Sciences, Town Planning and Urban and Regional Planning.
If you are considering an apprenticeship after studying A Level Geography, listed below are some examples.
- Air traffic controllers
- Archaeological specialist
- Aviation Specialist
- Chartered Town Planner
- Environmental Practitioner
- Ecologist
- Geospatial mapping Specialist
- Horticulture Operator
- Planning Technician
- Maritime Officer
- Marine Biology
- Travel Consultant
Careers
The analytical and research skills gained from studying Geography are attractive to a range of employers. Example careers include:
- Astronomer
- Cartographer
- Doctor
- Environmental consultant
- Geographical information systems officer
- Geologist
- Hydrologist
- Lawyer
- Planning/Development surveyor
- Teacher
- Tourism industry roles (Pilot/Cabin crew)
- Town planner
- Transport planning.
Where do students progress to after the course?
The majority of students who study geography continue their studies at University.