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Geography

"As a young man, my fondest dream was to become a geographer.  However, while working in the customs office, I thought deeply about the matter and concluded it was too difficult a subject.  With some reluctance I then turned to physics as a substitute."  Albert Einstein  (* see below for explanation).

Geography has been recognised as "a subject which holds the key to our future" (Michael Palin) and is at the forefront of understanding many of the world's current events.  Geography at King's is of great importance to every pupil, providing information and perspectives about many aspects of the world, at a range of levels from the local to the global.  Geography is a dynamic subject, and the way in which it is taught allows King's pupils to make sense of the world around them as well as the forces that shape it.

Lessons are taught in a lively and engaging manner allowing pupils to develop a curiosity about the various themes encountered in the syllabus.  Pupils also develop a range of intellectual, social and practical skills which will benefit them in other subjects as well the future.  Fieldwork is also an important component,and the geography department provides many opportunities, as it allows pupils to fully engage with their environment, encouraging them to grapple with the various elements taught in class.

The department takes trips to a variety of destinations.  We visit Exmoor and the River Horner's drainage basin, the 'Big Pit' in Wales, Portbury Docks and Cribbs Causeway, as well as the coastline at Sidmouth.  We also take a two-day residential course to Swanage for pupils in the 6.1.  We also attend regular Geographical Association lectures at the Wellington branch where pupils have the opportunity to be lectured by specialists in their respective fields.  We also enter the annual 'WorldWise' geography quiz for the 3rd form.

* The Einstein quote was actually written by Duane F. Marble, Professor of Geography at Ohio State University.  Professor Marble wrote the quote and put it on his office door at the State University of New York at Buffalo in response to the welcome received by the geography department which had taken over part of the physics building!

Staff profiles

James Bird, head of department, graduated with an MA from Durham, and a BSc from Loughborough University.  He left the north-east and began his tenure at King's in September 2009.  His particular interests in the realm of geography include geo-politics, nationalism, and the dynamic nature of cities.  He also coaches rugby and cricket.

Richard Llewellyn-Eaton has an MA from University College, Oxford, and has been a stalwart of the department for 30 years, specialising in the physical side of the subject.  He is particularly passionate about climatic and earth hazards.  He is also master in charge of cross-country and athletics at King's, and runs the Sports Leader Award.

Kirsty Davies graduated with a BA from Swansea University, and complements her history teaching with Key Stage 3 geography.  She is also the assistant housemistress of Carpenter house and involves herself heavily in the school with netball and CCF.

Sara Similien holds a BSc from Liverpool John Moores University, and specialises in teaching Key Stage 3 geography along with her role as co-director of sport.  She also coaches and manages the girls' 1st XI hockey, and is assistant housemistress in Meynell house.

Click here for details of the 3rd form curriculum

Click here for details of the GCSE course

Click here for details of the A Level course