Geography

Course summary

The great breadth of Geography as an academic subject is one of its real strengths and has made it an effective bridge between the Sciences and Humanities. The study of Geography in the Sixth Form has changed considerably over the years. A more rigorous, imaginative and theoretical syllabus has emerged through which one can gain a greater and more relevant understanding of the landscape and man’s occupation of it. The study of many contemporary issues and the development of a sense of environmental responsibility combine to make Geography one of the most relevant and popular subjects for young people today. Fieldwork is regarded as an integral part of the A Level course, with coursework accounting for 20% of the final A Level grade. All Sixth Formers will be required to attend a residential field course organised by Stowe’s Geography Department to enable research for this coursework to be undertaken. The local area also provides ideal opportunities to practice fieldwork techniques and gather first-hand data to test various geographical theories. Pupils are encouraged to subscribe to a Geographical Journal, written especially for A-Level pupils and designed to support studies and broaden interest in the subject as a whole. This is further encouraged through the School’s Geographical Society. A large number of our pupils continue to study Geography at a higher level in a wide range of courses and subject combinations. Geography graduates are valued for their literacy and numeracy skills and follow a wide variety of careers including Banking, Commerce, the Armed Services, National and Local Government, Law, Teaching, or in the fields of Town and Country Planning. Recently Geographers have been prominent in the organisation of environmental conservation measures and the provision and control of recreational facilities in areas of outstanding beauty.