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A-Level Geography

A-Level Mathematics

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Geography is a popular and dynamic academic subject which enjoyed a success rate of 90% A* to C last year.  It can be combined with a range of other subjects and suits students with interests in human and physical aspects of the subject. 


A wide range of learning experiences and independent research opportunities are involved, and as a department we subscribe to many online resources and journals which are available to students.  We expect our students to read widely and be aware of world events, many of which impact on topics studied in the classroom.  


Geography instils curiosity and understanding of differences in cultures, landscapes, environments, economies and political systems across the world. Therefore, it provides a mechanism for students to better understand a variety of issues at different scales – global and local.

Courses Offered

A Level Geography (AQA)

Syllabus Breakdown

Physical Geography

You will have a choice of the following topics:

  • Water and carbon cycles

  • Hot desert systems and landscapes

  • Coastal systems and landscapes

  • Glacial systems and landscapes

  • Hazards

  • Ecosystems under stress

2.5 hour exam worth 120 marks which forms 40% of the A-level

​Human Geography

You will have a choice of the following topics:

  • Global systems and global governance

  • Changing places

  • Contemporary urban environments

  • Population and the environment

  • Resource security

2.5 hour exam worth 120 marks which forms 40% of the A-level

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NEA (Non-examined assessment) : Geography fieldwork investigation.

Students complete an individual investigation which must include data collected in the field.

3,000-4,000 words worth 60 marks which forms 20% of the A-level.

Minimum Entry Requirements

In addition to our general Sixth Form entry requirements of five GCSEs at grade 4 or above, students will need to achieve at least a grade 5 in Geography at GCSE.

Why Study This Subject?

Geography is unique as it bridges the Social Sciences and Natural Sciences.  It embraces a diverse range of contemporary and challenging topics including global warming, world conflicts, poverty, globalisation and tectonic hazards.   It is accepted as a science or arts subject at A level for University entry, and has thus been chosen at times by students who subsequently read Medicine, Engineering, Economics and the Social Sciences. Nevertheless many of our students choose to study Geography at university.

Wider Opportunities

In Geography we encourage students to work collaboratively on presentations and critical analyses of issues and developments.  The importance of topicality demands an interest in current affairs, as well as the need to express opinions.


We greatly value fieldwork in the Sixth Form.  All students will go on a compulsory trip to the Flatford Mill Field Studies Centre on the Suffolk coast for 4 days. The Field Studies Centre at Flatford Mill offers tuition by staff who have a wide range of experience in data collection, research and exam techniques. Students will spend these 4 days completing their NEA. We also offer the opportunity to visit Italy during the summer term where students will stay in Sorrento and visit geographical attractions such as Mt Vesuvius and Pompeii – an outstanding opportunity to see the effects of tectonic activity first hand!

What Our Students Say:

‘I chose Geography because it’s relevant, interesting and most of all, fun!  The lessons are interactive and engaging.’


‘I chose Geography because I loved it at GCSE and enjoyed the variety of topics on offer. It gives me knowledge on many world affairs’

What Can I Do Next?

The wide skill set developed in Geography means that it lends itself to a wide range of professions apart from the more obvious ones such as town planning, environmental and infrastructure management.  


Geographers are numerate, literate, communicative and capable of making balanced judgements and writing cohesive reports.
Geographers are sought after graduates by employers due to the range of skills developed.